Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

There is a nice 36 roadster for sale on eBay with what purport to be original artillery wheels with oak centers.
Got into a conversation regarding whether the artillery wheels were offered as an option for later models. A friend said that 36 was the final year offered.
Also question whether the wheels would be safe at highway speeds

Yes, 1936 was the last year for the optional wooden-spoked artillery wheels for senior cars. In good condition they are certainly safe to drive at speeds and under conditions these cars were designed for. Even earlier cars on tour with wood spoke wheels is a very common occurrence - they are quite robust.

There were pressed steel-spoked artillery wheels available in the junior series for a couple of years after 1936 (pix attached).

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RJR (ewrecks), the following experience I collected with a non-Packard. Don't know if universally applicable. Wooden-spoked wheels feel especially comfortable at rainy days.


source: Bundesarchiv

What a gorgeous car the 36 Super 8 is, my hat is off to the exterior decorator