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

I brought several parts, along with two hubcaps to my plater. Very surprised to receive one back, not plated. After it was dipped, the outer portion is all brass, pressed onto the rear portion which is pot metal.
How unusual is an original hubcap made from brass?
Also, what was used to make it shine like chrome originaly?
Thankfully,
Al

If you look at the Kanter catalog, it states that Packard made the hubcaps from brass so that you could get really sharp detailing, and that's why their replica hubcaps are made that way. The other comment is this is what made them easy to dent. Which is why Hirsch replica hubcaps are steel with chrome plate. Anyway, it is easy to get nice replicas; take your pick.

Never realized that Dave. I am not aware that this specific cap has been replicated, however. Coincidentaly, this is one from the set I bought from you.

Brass can be nickel-plated and then chrome-plated. Why didn't your plater do that?
Anyway, the shine is polished nickel. The chrome just protects the nickel.