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Hi Folks -- I've been working on installing my rear fenders, splash aprons and running boards on my 31 sedan. My question relates to hardware for the sidemounts. I have the spacer blocks that are about three inches thick and obviously fit between the frame and splash guards. I have the arm with a matching bolt pattern which obviously support the tire. But I also have a rectangular steel plate, about 1/8th thick, with matching bolt holes -- where does this go? Under the splash aprons or on the splash aprons as a place for the arm to bolt to?

The "spacer" attaches directly to the frame. There is no rectangular steel "plate".

This is a 1930, but it should be the same.

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I'll take a picture of it and post it; there is a plate that must interface with the works as the bolt holes are a clear match. Perhaps it was a factory installed shim to line up the spare in the well?

A photo would be most helpful.

See plate in the attached file.

I think I figured it out. The service parts manual has a listing for a part 147892 -- Side Wheel Carrier Bracket Frame Reinforcement and lists the quantity as "2". I believe the plates mount on the inside of the frame and give extra rigidity to the mounting point.

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I doubt it goes on the inside of the frame. The frame has plenty of strength. I think it should go behind the sheetmetal to give it support, or maybe more likely between the sidemount bracket and the sheetmetal. Does the plate fit within the base of the sidemount bracket?

No, if the sidemount arm were to be placed with the plate on the exterior of the splasher, it would sit on it. You'd still see it. I couldn't imagine the Packard engineers would've designed it that way. Perhaps the plate fits between the bracket and the splasher?

I just re-read your previous post. I must have perused right by where it said "Frame Reinforcement". That must have been an add-on for 1931, or my car is missing them. Still seems superfluous to me, as the frame is quite ridged. I'll have to check other 1930 Packards now to see if they are on there.

Thanks West -- I recall the parts book lists the same reinforcement plates for 726/733. I do agree the frame is quite a substantial mounting point without the reinforcements.