what to check out when buying a 110?

Posted by megamotorhead On 2017/7/19 18:27:17

A few years ago, I got on this site to ask about parts availability for prewar Packards. Based on the responses and other online resources, I pretty much gave up on buying a late '20s or early '30s Packard. I decided if I ever owned a Packard, it would pretty much have to be a 1940 or earlier 110, 115, or 120.

I recently came across a 110 for sale in very nice shape at a reasonable price. Yeah, I know - that's the first red flag . But, for the first time, I'm seriously considering going tire-kicking for a Packard.

Now, I've been a stock Chevy guy for years. I've literally looked at hundreds of stock '55-57 Chevys for sale over the years, and I'm very good at that. But, I don't know the nuances of shopping for stock Packards.

So - can you tell me the weaknesses and "gotchas" of looking at late '30s 110s, 115s and 120s? Things like "a weak point of the design is..", "many have problems with...", "they all rust at this spot", and "make sure this part is there and in good condition, because it's impossible to find".

Looking at how to ID a 110 - it looks like the main things are the tag on the firewall and the engine number. Are there any codes for paint and interior colors? Other numbers I should check?

Thanks!