The Cadillac V2 is a 4,521 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1936 and 1949. It features a pushrod OHV 16-valve configuration with carburetted fuel delivery and mechanical ignition, delivering 97 kW (132 PS) in its primary application. Designed as a smooth, high-torque powerplant, it emphasizes low-RPM drivability and quiet operation for luxury grand touring.
Fitted to models such as the Cadillac Series 60, Series 62, and Series 75, the V2 was engineered to provide seamless power delivery and superior ride comfort. Emissions compliance was not regulated during this era, but the engine incorporated advanced (for its time) crankcase ventilation and exhaust tuning to reduce hydrocarbon emissions and improve combustion efficiency.
One documented update occurred in 1941, referenced in GM Engineering Bulletin #E-41-08, which revised the intake manifold design and carburettor calibration to improve idle stability and cold-start performance. This change addressed early reports of hesitation and stalling in stop-start driving, enhancing long-term reliability across the model line.
Production years 1936–1940 meet pre-regulation standards; 1941–1949 models incorporate improved crankcase ventilation per GM internal standards (GM Engineering Bulletin #E-41-08).
The Cadillac V2 is a 4,521 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for full-size luxury applications (1936–1949). It combines pushrod OHV architecture with single-barrel carburettion to deliver smooth, linear power and strong low-end torque. Designed for refinement, it prioritizes ride comfort and reliability over high-RPM performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,521 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.3 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 97 kW (132 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 347 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Stromberg EE-2) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulation | |
| Compression ratio | 6.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 30 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 245 kg |
The pushrod V8 layout with carburettor provides smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires adherence to maintenance schedules to sustain longevity. SAE 30 mineral oil is recommended for optimal lifter and camshaft lubrication. Oil changes should occur every 3,000 km or quarterly to prevent sludge buildup and timing chain wear. The mechanical ignition system relies on points and condenser; degraded components can trigger driveability issues. Valve adjustments are required every 15,000 km due to solid lifters, and intake manifold gasket integrity must be verified periodically to prevent vacuum leaks.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 30 mineral oil specification (GM Service Bulletin 10312). Compatible with API SA/SC requirements.
Emissions: No formal emissions standards existed; internal GM guidelines focused on crankcase ventilation and combustion efficiency (GM Engineering Bulletin #E-41-08).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output achieved with 72 AKI fuel and optimal ignition timing (GM TIS Doc. A45PERF).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AV2, A45FUEL, A45TIMING
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Measurement Standard
GM Engineering Bulletin #E-41-08
The Cadillac V2 was used across Cadillac's Series 60, Series 62, and Series 75 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised engine mounts in the Series 75 and modified transmission linkages in the Series 62-and from 1941 the updated Series 60 models adopted revised intake manifolds with improved carburettor calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS AV2ID01). The 5th VIN digit indicates engine family ('2' for V2 series). Pre-1941 models have a cast-iron intake manifold with round throttle body; the 1941+ variant features a revised plenum and square throttle bore. Critical differentiation from V1: V2 has larger bore (87.3 mm vs. 84.1 mm) and different crankshaft. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds, carburettors, and distributors are not interchangeable between pre-1941 and post-1941 variants (GM TIS AV2).
The V2's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure on high-mileage engines, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short trips. Internal GM engineering reports noted increased intake vacuum leaks beyond 50,000 km, while field data from vintage car clubs shows a notable share of idle instability from degraded gaskets. Extended short-trip operation and delayed maintenance increase thermal cycling stress, making coolant and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (1936-1949) and vintage vehicle failure statistics (1936-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CADILLAC V2.
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