Re: First ever restore/repair 51 touring sedan help

Posted by BDeB On 2009/11/2 3:58:45

Kevin,

You might want to consider a cheap beater vehicle for the winter. The bodies and pot metal chrome trim on 1951 Packards don't take kindly to heavily salted roads.
That said, you will find that these cars are simple and reliable. I drove a 1951 Patrician as an everyday vehicle for several years in the early 60's with no problems in spite of not being gentle with it.
Engine, suspension, transmission and rear axle parts are still available from vendors that you will find on this site. Brake and electrical items can be found at your local parts store as long as you know what to ask for. The parts x-ref on this site is helpful for many of these things.
As others have said, it would be good to check the car out thouroughly wnen you get it and come back to this site for advice.