Re: Henry's 55 Constellation

Posted by Craig the Clipper Man On 2012/12/17 14:29:32

Hank:

My provider at home was having a problem delivery my personal e-mail, so I do not have the response from that fabric provider at this time. I will check when I get home this afternoon.

I agree 100% with you about buying up stock of that fabric. Funny, I mentioned that to my wife as well. After about 25 years, my Clipper needs a few touch-ups, though nothing major.

I have to tell you, Hank, you picked a great car to restore. The Constellation is a fantastic driver and feels great at any speed, very confident in traffic or on an interstate. It steers, brakes, and even turns a lot like a modern car and the ride from the torsion-bar suspension is exceptional; nothing like wallowing whales of Cadillacs and Buicks of that period. The turning radius is unusually tight for a car of its period and size; it is easy to parallel park and I have successfully made a U-turn without corrections on a 2-lane street.

When I bought my car in June I had some reservations about it. I had considered something a bit older, like a 1941 120; but in retrospect, I couldn't be happier with my selection.

When you finish your Constellation it will be much prettier than mine and it will dazzle everyone who sees it. Folks who know nothing about Packards instantly recognize that their is something very special about these cars, and the fact that you restored it yourself will be a source of pride for years to come.