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

Hello,

I am the new owner of a 1951 packard 400 Patrician. I was hoping someone could assist me in locating a few parts. I need all rubber seals and window run channels. I see that Steele have some run channels, but of course not for the 1951 modell. The channels on this car does not have a symmetrical U-shape. Has anyone here found reproductions anywhere?







Some pictures if anyone is intereted:
photos.app.goo.gl/5Jhgve2xyenu8DmF6

You may not find anything exactly in that shape but there are some bulk lengths of generic channels available at Restoration Specialties. You may need to compromise on the bent side shape and just get one with a straight side.

Restoration's channels are what many of us have used and those are generally sold in 6 or 8ft lengths where you will need to cut your own to size and probably have some waste left over. Overall dimensions are obviously important but the chrome vs non chrome edge bead is also to be considered.

Since Steele does not have anything specific about the only other vendor I can think of would be Kanter Auto. At one time they offered complete and partial kits consisting of both rubber and channels for various models and might have something specific to your car. If not Restoration would be your best bet for channels and Steele for rubber.

Your channels are not symmetrical now--but they were when new and the generic stock from Restoration Specialties will work just fine for you. For door weatherstrip I prefer to use generic Street Rod weatherstrips where I can. Otherwise, you are stuck with Steele--which you can buy at a better price through Kanter Bros.

I looked through your photos and am impressed with the work that you have done. With the 327 and overdrive that car will be very pleasant to drive and will cruise easily at 130.

Thank you both. I think I will need to modify the lower brackets holding the channel if I am to use the generic reproductions, but that is not a big problem. The very rusty body, rotten interior and bad chrome is a more of an issue...
But, its nice that you say the 327 setup will make for a pleasant driver. That was what I was hoping for, and I have not been able to drive the car yet, and probably not for a while.

Too bad you weren't working on this decades ago when I had a perfect body you could have had! It ended up getting cut up and scrapped as no one seemed to need or want it and I was moving. Prior to that, I tried for years to find it a good home!

G'day Markus,
to PackardInfo. See you're from Norway so make that Velkommen!

And, I invite you to include your '51 Patrician in PackardInfo's Packard Vehicle Registry.