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I'm having trouble with my 53 Packard Clipper trunk hinges and would appreciate any help, I know the hinges have a double action that pulls the trunk forward, but with the trunk fitted it they will not pull the trunk forward and the trunk has a one inch cap at the front. I have tried fitting the hinges to the body and bolting on a bar to test the action and they will pull forward. but not with the trunk bolted on. I have tried the best hinges from two sets which did need some work as some were out of shape and cracked. I have them as straight as I can and working freely, but will not perform the second function with the trunk on. I know I probably need replacement hinges but may end up with another bad set. Has anyone used any other hinges or repaired bent ones successfully?

G'day topendkev,

Did you end up joining the Packard club here in Oz? If so, look up our Technical Officer, PeterT, in the Register of Members. He may be able to advise and might also have some hinges.

Ross may have some insight on this. Perhaps there is an adjustment or shiming that needs to happen. I remove my trunk lid, but never the hinges from the body.

Thanks for the replies, I got it sorted, the hinges were still not straight enough. I gave them a bit of persuasion with large hammer and vice and it now closes correctly. The hinges I had were all spread apart, probably from trying to close the trunk with partially ceased hinges.

Glad you got it solved.

I had to laugh at your "ceased" (seized?) hinges.

My '55 hinges have been problematic as well, are they the same or similar?
Unfortunately under engineered.

With all the work on the hinges pay attention that the rivets which make up the center pivot for the movable hinge leaf did not get loosened or stressed. The late Craig Hendrickson's 55 had one of the rivets let loose which caused one hinge to fly apart and cause some grief. Don't remember if he had any body damage but do remember him saying it let go suddenly and raised or came down crooked. He said it was a project to get the lid aligned and get things working again.

Hello TopEnd Kev, Is your vehicle a 53 Clipper Deluxe and previously painted two tone blue? My 53 Clipper Deluxe went to Darwin in around 1985 or thereabouts. Peter T

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