Re: Frame swap under '49 Custom 8?

Posted by HH56 On 2024/8/28 11:40:48

Cannot help with any frame suggestions and have never been around a frame swap to know all the ins and outs or limitations. Depending on how hard it will be to change the driving position, one thing I think you might need to consider is wheelbase and in particular where the front tires will be on whatever frame you find to sit under the Packard body.

Prior to 1951 almost all Packard bodies for the various 120" and 127" wheelbase 6 passenger models were the same with trim being the main differentiator. With the exception of the long wheelbase limo and 7 passenger models which did stretch some behind the front seat, the wheelbase differences between various other models were ahead of the cowl. I believe you will need to take that into consideration and make sure to find a frame that will accept the longer front fenders on your 127" Custom. I think trying to slide the Packard body back farther than the original body to accommodate the front fenders will wind up being a huge amount of extra work -- and that is presuming the rear axle would wind up in a workable location.