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

O'Dave -- While you're in the neighborhood, spray the background gloss white. A Cord friend simply lined his with the shiny side of aluminum foil, but we learned that gloss white better reflects bulbs than that or silver or chrome paint.
Make sure your grounds are good.

Just chiming in because I did some work on my tail lights recently, the whole rebuild and just bulb replacement. Please excuse my rust...

1. If you're just changing the bulb (or want to get to the socket), take the metal tab and both push it toward the outside of the vehicle while gently pulling on the tab. So for example, if I'm working on the driver's side (i.e. left) tail light, push the tab to the left and pull. You can try working it gently with needle nose pliers if it doesn't seem to be doing anything. It's VERY easy for the socket to suddenly let go, and then you've got a broken bulb and glass inside the lens. Ask me how I know...

2. If you ever feel like getting into the whole reassembly of the tail light, the illustration from the Parts List is a must have. Found here:packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/parts ... &PlateNumber=81&partslist=1948-1954

The second picture shows what the reinforcement bracket on the fender (4.16012) looks like installed on the vehicle. Might check Merritt, Tucson, Seattle, Packards SW, etc. to see if you can find a set. The studs can be made from 1/4-28 threaded rod. Best of luck!

p.s. 1154 (will have offset bayonets) is the correct bulb for the tail lights. The tail lights and parking lights are the same size bulb. The 1158 listed in the owner's manual is incorrect.

Attach file:

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  Socket.jpg (1,482.21 KB)


  Tail Light Bracket - Fender.jpg (1,435.21 KB)

Change the bulb. I figured out how to remove the bulb(s) and replace. I was quite nervous to break off the tabs. While the bulbs worked for running and directional lights both brake light filaments were bad. I am good to go in this area. Off to replacing many other bulbs.

Thank you for sharing your experience with me.