Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Has anyone tried replacing the rocker panels on a 55 2 door Clipper? How was the fit quality? Are the replacement panels pretty much a "one size fits all" for 55/56 2door Clippers? How difficult of a job was the replacement?
Thanks for any and all info.
John

While we are on the subject does anyone make rear wheel arches and lower rear fender patch panels for a 1954 Patrician?

John,
I've been researching a similar issue for the rockers on my 47 Clipper. Check out:

c2cfabrication.com

They have been mentioned on other threads regarding rocker panel replacement.

My plan is to look for competent body man to inspect my car and take along a print out of the rocker panel replacements and go from there.

Mark

No one makes "exact" rocker replacements. As far as the wheel arches and rear corner patches, they either have to come from a donor car, or make your own like I did.

Hello Friends,
RE: 41-47 Clippers, Does anyone know of a source for reproduction dog leg shaped brackets that connect the rockers to the frame? Or, has anyone have some guidance on their fabrication? (Looks like five on each side, see Service Letter Vol.15 No.7 Page 1).
In profile, they are elongated U shaped, no doubt for extra strenght. I suppose a thicker, flat stock would work.
Guidance appreciated.
Thanks,
Mark

Those should be available from a parts car as they are not high demand items. Check with Ross as we may have some from his part cars.

Bigkev,
That's pretty much what I thought. Mine have lots of "pinholes" but are suprisingly sturdy, so I may just spend the time welding, or brazing, up the holes. At least that's a job I can do lying down.... ;^)
John

I purchased the rockers and was very unhappy with them. They do not have the same curve as the front doglegs or the rear quarter. They height was wrong too, when I cut out the existing rocker and then put it in, the flanged underside was about 2" below where the rocker previously had stopped, so I had to cut a 2" 20 gauge strip, weld it on to the purchased rocker to make up the gap.

I know they were for 400's and senior models, but I didn't think there was going to be that much of a difference.