Re: Peterson's 1940 Packard

Posted by West Peterson On 2011/5/26 8:28:34

It's been a slow spring for me as far as working or fixing small things on my car. After about six years, I finally had to replace the battery I bought from Advance Auto. I'm surprised it lasted that long, especially since I did not spend much time taking care of it. No trickle charger, stayed in the car during storage most of the time, etc. I think for one or two winters, I brought it into the basement, and might have charged it once or twice.

I have obtained a set of running board side trim that would be correct for a 1941-42 model, but they are incorrect for 1940. Mine are supposed to be fluted, but the cost of the reproductions are far more than I'd like to spend ($800 for a set of two, if I remember correctly). I'm not saying they're not worth the money, I just can't afford them.

I feel badly about putting the wrong ones on the car, because from what I see of 1940 Packard restorations, almost all are getting the wrong trim, and soon no one will know what is correct. It upsets me to see a 100-point restoration with the wrong trim on the running boards. Afterall, some of the cars I see must have $50,000-$100,000 spent. Certainly they could have spent the extra $800 for the correct trim.

Some day, when I can afford it, I will replace the wrong ones with correct ones. Hopefully, they'll still be available when I want them.