Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Hello, does anybody know if I have to remove the front panels of my Packard (1951) before I can replace the door-weatherstrip? The guy who's gonna paint it thinks so.

Thanks, Tom

If you mean the front fenders and the weatherstip that is partially under the trailing edge of the fender and is also under the door when it is closed, I don't think you have to remove the fenders completely. Remove the rear bolts, top, middle and bottom and wedge it out enough to position the weatherstrip.

Yes, that is exactly the weatherstrip I mean. I will remove the old weatherstrip and hope I will find out.

Thanks Randy!

You may have to loosen the fenders before you remove the weatherstrip. I'm not sure but there may be one bolt from the middle of the fender that you have to remove the kick panel to remove the nut. The bolt is a part of the fender brace assembly. Not 100% sure about that.

Don't remember if a bolt is behind kick panel either but do believe some along bottom rear of inner skirt to frame will have to be loosened to get much movement--and maybe the ones at radiator splash & cross brace too--I hope & think there is only glue holding things but in back of mind, I remember a screw at end of strips on one car I did. Whatever you do, just be extra careful not to spread fenders more than a tiny bit because grill is still attached and the pot metal won't take much before letting you know.

Howard you are correct - I think there is a sheetmetal screw at the bottom back edge of the weatherstrip. With the door open it is accessible. Good warning about just pulling fender enough to remove the old and reglue the new weatherstrip. Some inner fender screws may have to be loosened also.

The doors and the grill are removed, so I think that is one problem less. Thanks for the warnings!

Tom