Re: 1955-57 What-If Line-Up

Posted by 55PackardGuy On 2010/12/28 0:56:53

Mahoning63,

Thanks for hanging in there. I like the dark color you chose for the photo work. The front, I think, had it's best shot with good old chrome headlight doors and the signals placed as they are, but a much subtler yellow. You can also go with t white or clear plastic lens and get the amber pop when the lights are on.

The start on the rear bumper is fine. The square exhaust opening is where I'd out the louver treatment... not like punched hotrod loubres, just downward slanted chrome slats.

The trunk itself might be too much to deal with. Remember, what we're trying to do is make enough striking design tweaks to really freshen up the '57 senior, without breaking the bank.

The rear fender from a side is where I think the extra flash could be worked in quite economically. simply elongate the top of the fender a bit. You wouldn't even need to change the stamping, just do it all with the tail lamp shell. Extend the top of it flush with the fender, then fashion an slightly extended (maybe 1.5") chrome tip, that gives a 'streak' look when viewed from the side. The extra chrome on the vertical sides of the tail lights would overlap the fender by 1/2" or so, giving a nice, finished one-piece look.

Descriptions are challenging, and I invite questions. Wish I had some more drawing board ability. I do like what's been down so far a lot. Making the trunk a bit more angular and shaving down the top at least 'til it fits flush with the windows will add the final touch, I think. Except perhaps the need for a bit of squaring of of the upper doors, rather than staying with the mild curves.