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

I have a 1942 Packard 180 and am searching for 3 power window switches to replace mine which no longer operate. Can anyone help?

While I would most prefer to buy replacement switches that work, I believe the inoperable parts are the plastic sliders as they have deteriorated over time (swollen and cracked). If anyone knows of any source for the sliders, please let me know.

Thanks,
John in Oregon
425-213-9620
jkoziol@pobox.com

If you have checked with Lavineclassiccarreproductions.com/store/ and they do not already make them or have any interest in making them then I expect it would need to be a lucky find on ebay. Another option might be to make some yourself.

I have made several small items but not having seen a switch up close there could be some detail that might be an issue. Assuming that is not the case then if it is like the typical later switches, if you have an original paddle in good enough condition to get the basic overall size and shape, even though it might be swelled or have some missing chunks or splits, the paddle could probably be filled in with epoxy or clay and then sanded to get it in a smooth enough condition to be suitable to use as a pattern to make a silicone mold.

SmoothOn has several types of casting urethanes of which any number should make a suitable paddle. A couple of high temp compounds that would be suitable for use in temperatures that might be found inside a closed car sitting in the sun are also available. The initial repair and sizing might be a bit tedious and take an attempt or two but I expect the worst part of the fabrication would probably be in tinting the casting urethane to match the original color.

Reynolds America in the LA area is one dealer for their products that I use and there may be a dealer closer to you in Portland or Seattle.reynoldsam.com I believe some of the Reynolds shops also might even have a service to make items as custom orders for a fee although I don't know if there is any minimum quantity or requirements.

Howard,
Thanks for the helpful information and the link to Lavine Restorations. Unfortunately, they do not produce the part I need; however, they expressed an interest in doing so. I will follow up with them if I can't make the part myself. In the meantime, I will continue to search eBay and a few other sites to see if I can locate some operating power window switches for my 42 Packard 180 Touring Sedan.

If anyone else on the Forum knows of any sources for one or more of these switches, please let me know.
John