Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Looking at the cars for sale I see some 1951 Packard's with vents on the rear body and some do not. Mine is one that doesn't. It is a baseline 4 dr sedan. Does it have to do with model or was it something introduced later in production?
I have debated on adding a set of them to my 1951 Packard or not.... I also like the "tail fins" they had later on. The tail lights look the same as mine, I wonder if a set of them would work on my 1951?

John

Parts says in 51 three per side were standard on the 2452-67-69 models which is the Patrician, Hardtop and Convertible. Dealer option on the other models but they were a relatively inexpensive option. I have seen a few 51 photos where there were 4 per side so that extra one and those on other models was something an owner or dealer added.

In 52 there was a different style louver and one model came from the factory with 4 per side. A couple of other models came with 3/side. Again, you see all kinds of combinations. In 53 they were not offered officially on any but the Mayfair and Convertible but there are other 53 models sporting them..

The horizontal tail lights had short extensions and am not sure if long was available for those in 51. I believe the long tail light extensions were available as options on all that had the vertical tail lights starting in late 52 or might have come with 53 models. A different piece was available on the 53 horizontal lights but not 100 % sure those can bolt to the 52 or earlier horizontal lights.. IIRC, there is a slight difference in the castings on the lights in 53-4. Just about any option that fits a 52 will fit a 51. I think the long ones add a distinctive more finished look and if they fit are worth installing even if not an official option for a model. I am sure there was not a dealer anywhere that would not sell an option if it fit and an owner wanted one for his older car.

Hi John, My guess is you have a standard 200. My Father had a 52 200 Deluxe and it did have the "jet Pods". It was the inspiration for me getting my own Packard. A 1951 "300" or 2472 no pods however. the 200 standard came without pods but could be ordered Brian

Hi

Checking Mr. Neal's Packard 1951-1954, page 70:

"Trade Letter 52-1006 of September 2,1952 also released the rear fender top molding we generally associate with the 1953 junior cars as an option on any 200 model and as standard on all 250 models. With the last month of production only being about 1,300 cars, this would have seen little application"

Meaning those '53 Clipper rear fender top molding will fit any '51 or '52 200 sedan, 250 Mayfair or convertible since the basic fender shapes are carried throughout. Dealers made good money back then selling options and additional trim to customers who wanted their cars fancier or 'personalized'. That would go for the addition of 'jet-pod' to plain 200's. Personally, the rear styling of the 200's could stand a little 'bling', adding the top molding helps. Your taste may vary...

Steve

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Some previous owner put a set of the 1951 type on my 1954 Patrician parts car but they will be removed soon in case you or anyone else needs a set. I also have a few of the 1952 style, which were typically stainless while for 1951 they were potmetal.

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Thanks for the input everybody. Packard Don, I might be interested in your pieces when you are ready to remove them from your 1954 car.

John

Okay, I'll keep you in mind but removal is some ways off unless sold so if interested, they can be purchased through the Classified Ads of my site linked below each of my posts.