Re: 1955 clipper super panama

Posted by BH On 2011/2/18 11:10:16

I wouldn't say that the rear-end treatment for the '55 Clipper was bastardized so much as it was a clear evolution of the '54 model. Now, the move to the shark-fin tallights - that was revolutionary design.

Yet, I actually prefer the stock, exterior appearance of the '55 Clipper Super and Custom over their '56 counterparts (though the '56 Deluxe has some odd appeal for me, with its minimal use of side trim). While I love the '56 Clipper taillights as much as anyone, I just never cared much for the '56 Clipper side trim. I much prefer those taillights as used on the Exec (especially, the hardtop), with it simple, straight side trim.

That said, I've always thought the '55 Clipper rear bumper was simply adapted from the '54, but a check of the parts book shows it ain't that simple. While the stone shield and seal and the vertical guards and their reinforcement are same 54-55, the impact bar and its support bars (brackets) shows different P/Ns between '54 and '55. Perhaps others with more experience in a 54/55 swap will chime in with additional insights

I'd think one might do better to sell the 55/56 Senior bumper outright and use the proceeds to obtain a correct bumper for the Clipper. Solid 55/56 Senior bumper ends are fairly desirable, and you might end up with some spare change as a result.