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OK so I have an early built 1951 Packard 200. So far, I have found the following: I have a 288 with hydraulic lifters, which is apparently very rare, a transmission that lacks a slotted bolt for easy adjustment, a parking brake that has not been updated with the service counselor, and now I find out I have a trunk that lacks the extra support (bolt through to metal strip holding tank) as shown in the parts manual. The question is, do I update this car to the standards of later cars, or do I keep it
"as is" as a sort of a historical reminder of early builds? What are your opinions???

I'd do what is best for the use you intend to put the car to.

One poster here said his experience with the 288 engine is if it was originally coupled to an Ultramatic then it came with 'hydraulic' lifters and if with a manual shift transmission, 'mechanical' lifters.

If the car functions properly as it was originally made, then why not leave as is it to show how an early production version was made.

(o{}o)

One poster here said his experience with the 288 engine is if it was originally coupled to an Ultramatic then it came with 'hydraulic' lifters and if with a manual shift transmission, 'mechanical' lifters.

I wasn't aware of that and would be interested to know the source of that information.

Make the vehicle safe. Historical reminder to whom?

I guess anyone wanting info on how designs are changed during a run when problems are found? I really don't know, hence the poll. Maybe these details are insignificant and I am "over thinking" things? Wouldn't be the first time. All of the abnormalities I have found are not really safety issues. Any other thoughts/opinions on this subject?