Re: Were padded dashes standard?

Posted by 55PackardGuy On 2010/3/30 0:24:00

I think the dash pad would give some protection in an accident. The metal has quite a sharp edge. Of course, it would be the difference between a very bad head injury and an awful head injury. At lower speeds, it would probably be the difference between a really bad bruise and a bleeding forehead with split skin.

The dash pad in our '55 400 was removed, and the dash painted with a nice black textured paint. It looked fine, but I remember staring at that hard edge when I was a front-seat passenger, and hoping my brother didn't hit anything, as he was the regular driver after the car was restored.

Seat belts forever!

I wish we had a complete section on the Modifications board dealing strictly with belt installations. It would be nice to improve the longevity of the Packard faithful.