Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

It's been too many years, too many margaritas and too many grey matter cells gone bye bye: that I can't remember to save my life now about how in the HE double tooth-pick I secure the upper fender moldings on my '55 400 to the front grille? The grille isn't done yet (from chromer), but I hung the molding as I didn't want them to get scratched in the garage. I vaguely remember my now passed away father in law telling me to be VERY CAREFUL when I secured this part; but hells bells, I can't remember and if its in the Packard repair manual, I can't find that section! I need help here guys! Is there a specialty fastner used at this corner????

Help always appreciated.

Thanks as always,

Kevin in Tucson.

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Added another picture ...........erred with bumper pic that was also put on today.

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Section 10 in service manual has the procedure but if I understand question, the side pieces just overlap (underlap would be more the correct orientation) but do not actually screw to grill. The grill is fixed to fender under headlights and around the corner and the side pieces underlap by sliding into recess and then screw in from behind the fender. The caution part is the tab on grill may not be flat against the fender so don't tighten it down without putting something behind the tab or tighten so the side won't slide in. As I recall the side piece has 5-6 screws and a couple are a PIA to get to.

Did you do any fitting of the chrome before sending it out for plating?

I believe Howard is on the money. Mount the two halves of the oxbow and slide them together as tight as possible. Fasten the oxbow to the main grille for support. Examine the fit of the wrap-around portion of the oxbow and if there is a gap between the tang where the bolt goes and the fender, shim it with a washer. Start that bolt in thru the fender and before you tighten it slide the side piece under covering up the tang and insert one of the side mounting screws to support the side trim. Have fun getting all the side screws in and snugged up properly.

Mr. Pushbutton,

No I didn't BUT wish I had. As I've been endeavoring for several years now to complete this car, I had different items plated and then stored awaiting the day that it was time to again replace things onto the 400. After hanging the rear bumper last weekend, I notice that I cracked the plating on long piece that crosses from side to side (tail pipes feed through)on the rear bumper. I only too late realized that I mixed several parts together and as I now realize I am the culprit. Live and learn! As I finish the car I still have the front grille assembly to do, and I plan on 'test fitting' prior to plating.

Kevin
Tucson, AZ