Re: Would you treat another Packard enthusiast badly for having a modified Packard?

Posted by HH56 On 2009/4/12 11:56:07

This is a tough one. I like the cars to look original but not as much a purist as others are when it comes to hidden things so perhaps my take is biased. I would never discourage anyone to the point of quitting like it sounds like some in the offending car club did. Those type people I have little use for anyway because they usually have strong opinions on other things I might care about too. Am getting too old to get pissed off on a regular basis. If asked, I say as best I can what was original, suggest where they might find it, but also mention if there is an alternative if they haven't already found one. If they have I might learn something too if I need it.

As to modified bodies or Chevy engines--well, it's their car to do with as they wish. On one hand, you can't help but admire some peoples creativity, talent and determination to make something work-let alone the expense. Low riders--we have a lot here as well and some of their engineering skills are also tops.

One of the most incredible vehicles I ever saw was a Chevy S-10 getting gas next to me. To check the oil, he pushed a button on key fob and the front fenders and hood went up. Guess my mouth was open too long because he pushed another and the bed went up. I walked over to look. We talked, he pushed another button and the cab also went up leaving just a short bit with seats, floor and steering assy on a short piece of firewall. Needless to say, I was impressed because from 25' away, it appeared stock-regular doors and all. Had all been done at a local shop. The purist would have had a field day and if successful, some fantastic engineering and workmanship would never be seen.

Those cars at a cruise night, informal show or some such are one thing because owners are justifiably proud and want to show off their creation. When they enter a show with a visibly modified car in a marque class, then it becomes another matter. As to the jerk bit, some may come off as a jerk-- unintentionally doing so while trying to explain what they did with pride

Rattle can paint--at a cruise, I always look at it as a work in progress. There were times I could barely afford those and it was that or rust. At a formal car show, justifiably should be knocked down.

Randy's approach is probably the best and one I also try to stick to. Just walk around, look, say nothing, smile if the owner talks and be civil. If something really looks interesting, I ask and if the guy explains take it the way he probably meant it-as an accomplishment not that he was a genius for coming up with it--unless he really was, then stroke his ego.