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

I am at that stage on the restoration that I need to decide whether to repaint the car the original color (which was a fairly dark gun metal gray) or change it to a Maroon Color. I have the paint chips for 1937 but like the 1932 centennial maroon better. I am also at the cross roads on he upholstery as well. The original was mohair and I am considering leather. I doubt that I will seriously show the car and I really don't see selling it either. I bought it when I was 16 and am now 59 years old. That being said, who knows what the offspring will do with it when I kick the bucket. Am I hurting the value if I move in these directions? Thank you for any advise you can throw my way. -Tom

As long as it is tasteful and reasonably original in style, the value will not be seriously adversely affected - and more importantly, it will be as you desire. Please yourself, not the next owner.

Are you certain the original interior upholstery material was mohair and not wool broadcloth? Never seen a prewar junior with mohair, and don't think I've ever seen a Packard of any type with mohair upholstery.

Slight variations from factory colors rarely have much if any affect on values, but incorrect upholstery would possibly have quite an effect, depending on the interests of a future buyer.

I agree with flackmaster. It's your car so please yourself, not the kids inheritance. You won't be around to worry about it anyway.

Strict authenticity is OK to a point and while a Chevy engine and tiger print upholstery might raise eyebrows, who is to say the first owner decided he liked the maroon paint and leather upholstery better as well, had the car refreshed and it was that way when you got it. Was leather an upgrade option? Packard and their dealers did go a long way to provide a customer what he wanted.

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This statement seems contrary to many people's opinions on this site, I hope you don't catch too much "flak" over it, lol!

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TIGER skin? I'd go with tiger skin, that's much hipper man!

youtube.com/watch?v=mD-QS2Hccq0

Start it at 4:30...

Owen,

I believe you are correct. I was told years ago that it was mohair but it does look more like a wool broadcloth. Thanks for your reply and setting me straight.

Tom

Flack,

Thanks for you reply.... I will send photos when done!

Tom

To all of you who responded, Thank You. This is a great site and I am learning a lot cruising through it.

Tom

Is there a link where you can see the paint chips of 40s convertibles ?