Engine: identification

[Bill Graepel]

Hi folks. This is my first post. I am trying to identify the engine in my 1956 Power Hawk. Chassis plate #’s 56B – C3 1516 SN# 8434563
Number on left (from drivers seat position) front next to oil filler: L1817 embossed number on right front is: 535601. I've ordered and received the order sheet from the archives but it does not supply that information and options list is very sketchy as well.
Previous owner (deceased) wrote that it is a "289". Valve covers (black) show "Sweepstakes 259".
Any ideas?
Thanks, Bill Graepel

[52-fan]

Have you checked this page? http://www.studebakerdriversclub.com/V8EngineID.asp I think the original engine in a Power Hawk would be a 259, but after this long anything could be there.

[Bill Graepel]

Have you checked this page? http://www.studebakerdriversclub.com/V8EngineID.asp I think the original engine in a Power Hawk would be a 259, but after this long anything could be there.

The order sheet states eng# 369089 which according to url above says:

V-363,751

1956 Commander 56B

259

I guess that the engine in my car is not original but sourced from a 1958 Packard L series.
Interesting that the order sheet states Flight-O-Matic trans when previous owner converted from manual to automatic
trans (GM 700r4 ) in 2014. Lots to sort out...
Thank You

Bill Graepel

[StudeRich]

Well Bill the good News is you "Should have" a 289 Engine.
Just pull a Spark Plug and check for a Dished Piston, that "USUALLY" means a Standard Compression Non Avanti 289 Piston, but as you are finding out just about EVERYTHING on a Stude. can be swapped to "Something else".

By the way... Welcome to the SDC and to the SDC Forum Bill! From a fellow '56 Power Hawk original Family owner.

[Bill Graepel]

Thanks for the tip. I'll do that soon.
Bill G.