Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Thanks for the input, I got my magnets to search out bondo. I'll look carefully at the floors. I agree it's not worth much more than 3-4k in my opinion.

Didn't realize the accelerator starter was a PITA. I'm happy to look at the car with an overly critical eye and present what I think is a fair price, if I'm still interested after looking at it.

Should be seeing it this afternoon, so updates to follow!

I think the majority of owners would not consider the accelerator starter switch a PITA. With an engine in a decent state of tune and properly adjusted they worked exceptionally well. Buick also used the same system.

Well I'm back from driving it. I will post some pix when I figure that out. Guess I can't do it from my phone.

Seems like a reasonable man. He asked 5k for it. I personally don't value it that high. He has already turned down 3500. I am thinking about it.

I was concerned the way he drove the ultramatic. Starting in low and shifting up to high, exactly what you aren't supposed to do! He also called it a four speed and said it didn't work unless you manually up shifted. Well, knowing it's a torque converter and lockup automatic, low and behold, when I drove it only in high it was fine. Though going up a hill he reached over and downshifted it for me. I cringed each time. I think thats going to need some looking over to assess what damage has been done.

There's an oil leak and some rust, particularly where the fender skirts connected.

It's absolutely plane Jane, and I do like it. But not at that price.

I should also say it was the first time I was behind the wheel of a Packard and I was really surprised at the ease of driving it.

Pictures I took of areas of concern

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I'd like to withdraw my previous comment of "Looks like a pretty neat '52", up close the body doesn't look neat! Unless you are accomplished in rust repairs I'd think it best to steer away from this one.

Hi tAnthony

For comparison and consideration, you might investigate the '51 200 posted on the Nashville, TN Craigslist. I'd add the link but his motel computer won't do copy/paste.

As a Packard to enter the hobby for low cost, the four door '51-'56 200's and Clippers are ideal: plentiful, still low priced frequently relative to fairly good condition cars.

Be picky, find yourself the best one you can for the price even if it has to be shipped to you. My advice, for what its worth, and good luck. Let us know how you make out.

Steve

Added 6-17-2016
https://nashville.craigslist.org/cto/5563590393.html

I think it's no surprise that I'm gonna pass on this one. Oh well. It's a shame too, I'll never understand why someone would do all that work to a car and then not take care of it.

Onward to the next thing!

Good choice. Yes the body is much worse in the close ups and worth no where near his asking price. As I have found out, if you entertain a '52 be cautious of the chrome because of "war chrome" which was thin and covered in a clear coat. They don't seem to last and will be expensive to rechrome if in poor condition.

Good advice about the war chrome which I had forgotten about. My 1952 Henney-Packard had the clear coating removed so I had to really take extra care on keeping the grill and other brightwork waxed to help protect it.

In the meantime, I presume you've checked out the For Sale, Wanted, Trade forum here? The last I looked there was a nice 1951 200 for sale. It was at a much higher price than this one above but appeared to be in far better condition and not needing all the work and expense of a restoration because it had already been done.

O'geeez, sorry, I wanted to reply on your ongoing forum post and somehow got on your PM address. There's nothing wrong with the 51, 52, 53, 54, year models. I have a 51 and 53, relatively easy to work on, no problem with parts (so far) and the "see and be seen" factor is very pronounced. Enjoy.
Steve