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

I have a curiosity question. I've notice that on the '48-'50 Packards, the Philco radio seems to be mostly bare chassis, but some are painted brown. Any idea what the brown ones are associated with? My Custom is brown, Standard bare, but I don't know if it's a model thing or what. (Nor do I know for sure if the radios are the originals.)

I can only guess, but it may be related to post war materials restrictions. Some chassis were copper plated, and many were cadmium plated or perhaps tin plated. Bare steel would rust, and it was more difficult to solder to.