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I have a big question for you guys out there and any insight will help me out alot. Im thinking about Getting the motor and trans switched out of a 53 deluxe with the manual transmission into a 51 body that has an ultramatic trans. And I was wondering if anyone can tell me anything and I mean anything that would make this alot less painful.

Kamstilla,

Did you see this thread in the Post-War Forum?

packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?topic_id=2343&forum=2

And speaking of which, it would be a good idea to get Kev to move this thread to the Post-War Forum if you agree?

Dont do it.You will almost need a parts car to do it.Nothing wrong with the ultramatic.No you wont be "HOTRODDING" any one but afterall we are not talking about a Chevy or Ford this is after all a luxury car.On the other hand I am a bit narrow minded on this subject.I also once told someone at a car show who asked me what I thought of a "rat rod" of a Packard.Yeah, I told him I thought it was the most idiotic idea I had ever heard of.Yeah, he walked away from me in silence.I just hope he took my advice. sorry you "rodders" Brian

Seems to me there was a forum on this subject for a 51 "200" some time back.Same problems I am sure. Brian

Hope you are talking about 2 juniors or 2 seniors. A junior and a senior will result in problems.

In addition to the engine and trans you will want to change the rear axle to get the correct gear ratio. Junior and Seniors had different rear axles driveshafts and wheels.

You will also need to swap out the steering column gearshift and the pedals.

It's a big job but an expert mechanic should be able to do it for a few thousand $$$$ bucks provided he has both cars sitting side by side.

I would do it for $500 if the cars are sitting side by side, and have it done in two days.

You work cheap. Around here shop rates are from $65 to over $100 an hour and that's for working on run of the mill late model cars.

Well, I don't believe in ripping people off.

Eric,

If you did end up doing something like this, could you be sure to document how it went with pic's and any particular problems encountered along the way?

Would travelling and accommodation expenses be on top of the quote for the swap job, because how far is it from Wichita Kansas to Houston Texas?

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Of course I would.

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That is another thing too, the price I quoted is out of my garage. If I have to travel, of course the price would go up. Hmm, since I'm going to have a work free summer, maybe I could take up the title of "Traveling Packard Repairman"!

Trips to Australia will carry a premium!