Re: Looking at a 1951 Packard 400

Posted by oregonstan On 2011/10/26 23:15:20

Take a look at the body number on the inside of the drivers door 2472 for the 300 2452 for the 400. Tail lights on the 300 and 400 is the same.
The others covered most of it regarding rust I have a 300 and it does have it's share of rust. The more complete the better otherwise you will be be paying a bunch for all the missing items. Also to look at the wiring for poorly repaired wires. Also depending if you want to keep it original with the 6 volt system.
It would help to know if it was the proper engine too looking at the manifold for the 327 on it as well as serial number on the block itself on the drivers side closest to the firewall. For some reason mine doesn't have anything on that plate but there is a number listing for what it should be. The 300 has a 5 main 327 and the 400 has the 9 main 327.
There's a lot to look at and it depends on what you are willing to pay and if you want to resale then the less repairs the better. If you are going to fix it up how much skill you have to take care of the repairs. I think I might be rambling too much so with out knowing anything else. If you like it and you feel it is a good price pick it up. I'm enjoying mine but it is also a long term restoration hobby.