Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Since everything seems to go wrong when dealing with Packards, I thought it worth mentioning that sometimes a new problem has a funny outcome.
After struggling to install new door panels on the 55 Caribbean, I installed the interior door handles( after spending an undue amount of time trying to get the clips to fit into " new" handles that were apparently cast in China without the indentation to hold the clips.) and discovered that the doors were locking automatically. The problem was that the doors,could not be unlocked from the outside with a key.
I had never seen or heard that Packard had pioneered automatic door locks . While it would have been nice to brag that in addition to the automatic leveling system, Packard had been 50 year ahead of the curve in affording auto lock, I was more comcerned that I would lock myself,out of the car and be unable to get back inside.
If you want to have auto locking doors on your Caribbean( and possibly other models)- remove the rear screw holding the top interior molding and replace it with a screw that is 1" long. That is all it takes.
The longer screw activates the locking action and prevents the door from being accessed with the key.
Try it-- or do it to a friend. You will not find a solution in the Service Manual.

You may have central locking fitted. Offered by Packard in 56 ...mine ( 56 Pat ) works at the oddest of times