PACKARD 316787 Cylinder Head Engine

( Brand: Packard ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 316787 ), ( Part Type: Cylinder Head Engine ), ( Material: Cast Iron ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Performance Part: No )

Review PACKARD Cylinder Head Engine

The **Packard 316787 Cylinder Head** is a meticulously crafted, high-performance component designed for vintage and classic Packard engines, specifically tailored to models featuring the iconic **352 cubic inch V8** or **389 cubic inch V8** configurations. Engineered with precision and built to exacting standards, this cylinder head represents a blend of historical engineering excellence and modern restoration techniques, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and longevity for enthusiasts seeking to restore or modify their beloved Packard vehicles. Crafted from high-quality **cast iron**, this head is designed to withstand the demands of high-compression applications while maintaining structural integrity under heavy loads, making it an ideal choice for both street-driven and competition-oriented engines. The **316787 part number** identifies it as a direct replacement for original equipment, featuring the classic **wedge combustion chamber design** and **intake/exhaust port configurations** that were hallmark features of Packard s legendary powerplants. The head includes **four valves per cylinder** (two intake and two exhaust) with **pushrod-actuated rocker arms**, a design that balances simplicity with efficiency, allowing for smooth operation and easy maintenance. The **valve guides and seats** are precision-machined to ensure proper sealing and cooling, while the **spark plug bosses** are strategically positioned for optimal ignition distribution, enhancing combustion efficiency. Whether used in a fully restored 1950s Packard Clipper, a high-performance street rod, or a custom-built drag racing engine, this cylinder head delivers the timeless power and character that Packard engines are renowned for. For those pursuing authenticity, the **316787** is a seamless fit for engines requiring original or aftermarket components that adhere to the highest standards of craftsmanship, ensuring that every detail from the **valve spring retainers** to the **oil passage routing** contributes to a performance that honors the past while pushing the boundaries of modern restoration.

### Pros and Cons of Buying a Packard 316787 Cylinder Head for a V-8 Engine

The **Packard 316787** cylinder head is associated with the **Packard V-8 engines**, particularly those from the **1950s**, such as the **Packard Clipper** and **Packard Caribbean**. These engines were known for their high-performance potential, but cylinder heads from this era come with distinct advantages and challenges.

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### **Pros**

1. **Performance Potential**

The Packard V-8 engines, especially the **352 cubic inch (5.8L) and 389 cubic inch (6.4L) variants**, were designed for high output. With proper modifications, these engines could produce **300 400 horsepower** in their heyday, making them desirable for restoration or hot rodding. A well-maintained **316787 cylinder head** can contribute to strong performance when paired with a properly tuned engine.

2. **Classic American Engineering**

Packard engines from this era featured **cast iron construction**, **hemi-style combustion chambers**, and **mechanical fuel injection (in some models)**. These designs were ahead of their time in terms of power delivery and efficiency compared to many contemporary engines. The **316787 head** is part of this legacy, offering a unique blend of durability and performance.

3. **Availability of Parts and Modifications**

While not as common as Ford or Chevy parts, **Packard V-8 components** still have a dedicated following. Aftermarket suppliers offer **porting services, valve jobs, and performance upgrades** for these heads. Additionally, **NASM (North American Spark Plug) and other manufacturers** produce gaskets, seals, and other essential parts.

4. **Restoration and Nostalgia Value**

For enthusiasts who appreciate **1950s American automotive history**, a Packard V-8 engine including the **316787 cylinder head **represents a rare and desirable piece of machinery. Restoring one can be a rewarding project, especially for those who enjoy **classic car culture**.

5. **Potential for High Compression and Forced Induction**

The **hemi-style combustion chambers** in the Packard V-8 allowed for **high compression ratios** (up to **10:1 or higher** in stock form). This makes the engine well-suited for **forced induction (turbocharging or supercharging)** with proper modifications, which can significantly boost power output.

6. **Durability with Proper Maintenance**

Cast iron cylinder heads are **naturally robust** and can withstand **high RPMs and aggressive tuning** if maintained correctly. With **regular valve adjustments, port cleaning, and gasket replacements**, these heads can last for decades.

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### **Cons**

1. **Age and Wear**

The **316787 cylinder head** is **over 60 years old**, meaning it may suffer from **warping, cracked castings, or worn valve seats**. Many original heads require **machining, reconditioning, or replacement of internal components** before they can be reliably used.

2. **Limited Availability of Original Parts**

Finding **authentic, unmodified 316787 cylinder heads** in good condition can be difficult. Many heads have been **rebuilt, modified, or damaged over the years**, reducing the pool of truly original parts. This can make sourcing a **fully functional head** a challenge.

3. **High Cost of Restoration**

Restoring a Packard V-8 cylinder head especially one that needs **decking, valve job, or porting** can be **expensive**. Labor costs for **precision machining** and **performance modifications** are often higher than for more common engine parts.

4. **Fuel Injection Complexity**

Some Packard V-8 models (particularly the **389 CID**) used **mechanical fuel injection**, which is **less common today** and requires **specialized knowledge** to repair or modify. Modern fuel systems (like **EFI**) may not be directly compatible without significant adaptation.

5. **Reliability Concerns with Aggressive Modifications**

While Packard V-8s can handle **high performance**, they were not built for **modern abuse**. **Forced induction, extreme camshafts, or high compression** without proper reinforcement can lead to **premature failure** (e.g., **warped heads, cracked blocks, or valve float**).

6. **Limited Aftermarket Support**

Compared to **Chevy, Ford, or Chrysler**, the **Packard V-8 aftermarket is small**. While there are **enthusiast groups and specialists**, finding **standardized parts, manuals, or troubleshooting guides** can be harder. This may require **more research and patience** when working on the engine.

7. **Potential for Hidden Damage**

Many old cylinder heads have **internal cracks, corrosion, or degraded materials** that are not immediately visible. **Pressure testing, ultrasonic inspection, or X-ray analysis** may be necessary to ensure structural integrity before use.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Packard 316787 cylinder head** is a **highly desirable but challenging** component for enthusiasts. It offers **exceptional performance potential** and **classic American engineering**, but it also comes with **significant maintenance, cost, and reliability concerns** due to its age.

If you are **passionate about classic cars, willing to invest time and money in restoration, and have access to specialized knowledge**, this cylinder head could be a **fantastic project**. However, if you are looking for a **reliable, low-maintenance, and widely supported** engine component, a **Packard V-8 head may not be the best choice** compared to more modern or common alternatives.

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### **Recommendation**

- You are **restoring a Packard or another classic car** and need an **authentic, high-performance component**.

- You have **access to a skilled machinist** who can **rebuild, port, and test the head** before installation.

- You are **prepared for high costs** (both in parts and labor) and **long-term maintenance**.

- You are part of a **Packard enthusiast community** that can provide **support, parts, and troubleshooting help**.

- You are **not experienced with vintage engines** and lack the **time or budget** for extensive restoration.

- You are looking for a **plug-and-play performance upgrade** with minimal hassle.

- You cannot **verify the head s structural integrity** before purchase (e.g., no pressure test or inspection).

- You prefer **more widely supported engines** (e.g., **Ford 351W, Chevy 396, or Chrysler Hemi**) where parts and labor are more accessible.

For those who proceed, **thorough inspection, professional rebuilding, and careful tuning** are **essential** to ensure the cylinder head performs reliably and safely.

Details:

This is a used Packard cylinder head. Year: Not sure. Make: Packard. See the pictures for details.

Buyer pays shipping, seethe shipping calculator, I do ship worldwide. Inventory number: LV-65. Condition: Used. Item: Cylinder head.

Part number 316787.

part #: 316787 price

• $149.99

specifications cylinderheapar:

• brand: Packard
• mpn: 316787
• part type: Cylinder Head Engine
• material: Cast Iron
• country of origin: United States
• performance part: No

general cylinderheapar:

• condition: Used
• Car Truck Parts Accessories > Engines Engine Parts > Cylinder Heads

payments cylinderheapar:

• other
• credit card: Discover
• wallet: Google-pay

returns cylinderheapar:

• paid by: Buyer
• time: 14 Days
• policy: Returns Accepted

seller cylinderheapar:

• city: Concord, North Carolina
• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 2905

shipping cylinderheapar:

• type: Calculated
• cost: $50.96
• class: Economy
• carrier: FedEx
• service: FedEx Ground Economy
• transit: 5-11 Days

offer cylinderheapar:

• sold: 0
• started: February 21, 2026
• quantity: 1
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home

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