The 1953 Custom Packard Patrician in Costa Rica is a "Tribute to Otilio Ulate Blanco, President of Costa Rica 1949-1953."

Hi West: I am not certain, but I think this '53 Patrician custom was built for the president of Costa Rica in about 1953/54, or perhaps later. It was not built to a Packard design, but simply custom made there. The 127" wb was extended about 11", the plastic roof added, along with other features added or modified. There appears to very little rear leg room.

The difference in the a/c water pump is that it has a longer shaft so as to clear the two a/c compressor belts. The longer shaft places the fan slightly closer to the radiator.

Packard used the flat louvers in 1953 and 1954. They never had any plastic ducts. The difference in the a/c water pump is that it has a longer shaft so as to clear the two a/c compressor belts. The longer shaft places the fan slightly closer to the radiator.

The Old Dominion Packard Club will hold its 2016 Spring Tour
in Charlottesville, VA this April 21-23. For details, forms, etc., please contact Dwight Heinmuller at dwightpac@comcast.net

The Henry Joy Tour was held in Virginia in Sept., 2015. It is not to be confused with the tour put on by the Lincoln Highway Association last year. The term "Henry Joy Tour" is a registered trademark of The Packard Club, and has no connection with the Lincoln Highway Association.

Use NAPA 17145, and grind about a 1/4" off lip. This will
work fine, and it has a Neoprene seal.

Your brake shop seems to want to replace everything, and they have no knowledge of Bendix power brakes. I think I'd stay away from them. As others have said, properly maintained original brakes are superb. Disc brakes are NOT the answer; they are available merely as a product on which to make a profit. I have "rebuilt" several Packard brake systems, including Treadle Vacs, and was always pleased with how well a refreshed Bendix brake system works. BEWARE, and find someone who is competent, and honest, to correctly restore your Packard Bendix brakes. Also, I would
recommend NOT turning brake drums unless they are badly scored. They should always be within .020 of standard. Dwight

Hi Brian:
Can you call me or give me your tele. number? I want to ask you about Packard High Speed Equipment (HR) and Racing Car Equipment for the 5660 (RC). Thanks, Dwight 410-329-3022

I am now looking into having the 1956 rear torque arm bushings made from polyurethane. Will mention in future the results.