Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I know what it's like to look at a huge project like this and be overwhelmed. I have to agree with those who advise you to start small and tackle one area at a time.

From what I've read in your posts (and seen in pictures), I think the previous owner keeping the car stored indoors all this time works in your favor. I saw NO rust to speak of!

My dad's '47 Clipper sat outside for 14 years after he traded it to a local car dealer, and that ruined it.

I have to think that sitting inside will be helpful in getting the car to run again. There's something to be said for protection from the elements!

I'm looking forward to reading about the engine turning over after it soaks for awhile....

Ok so I stared today pulled the radiator and put a wrench on crank bolt and pulled the spark plus and she was free with relatively little muscle. So now I am working on getting the front fenders off to get full access to the engine but I have one bolt on each fender inside the passenger compartment I can not get off soaked in penetrating oil and let sit for hours any segestions on getting them off? Maybe cut the bolt off? Any help is greatly appreciated!

The factory bolts are smooth and thin headed similar to carriage bolts and almost touching the outer fender. No space for anything to grab on from that side or much to grab onto if you could get something in. The bolt is kept from turning by a square neck which fits into a small thin tab of metal so not much holding power provided by the tab.

If you can get a nut splitter over the nut or have room to turn it's business end if does slide over, that or somehow cutting or sawing the bolt off will be about the only option I can think of other than waiting and hoping the oil finally works.

Here's a photo of a nutsplitter type sold by Northern Tool. Similar should be available at many places and they are available in different jaw styles and different layouts.

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Dear Andy:

You may have to let them soak for a week or two. The way I used to do stuff like that was put the car in a corner and dump a case of penetrating oil on everything.

If they are visibly rusted you may need heat.

If the nose has been off and they were overtightened that is a bigger problem. They only need about 15-20 ftlbs of torque.

A torch can be your best friend in removing bolts from the frame etc. I've only have used a torch once, but it made quick work of removing the bolts. Just get them cherry red and punch them out.

Here'sgreat website which includes a step by step restoration of a 46 Packard. It gives good advice with good insight into the cost of a restoration which would be similar to your car if you wanted a very nice car vs. a presentable one.

Thanks for the advice I will let them soak for a week as I can't work on it in the next week anyway and then if the don't come off I will try heat and or a nut splitter. Also tbirdman thanks for the website it looks like it will provide info and inspiration during my project!