Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

I have removed the complete rear axle including the housing from the back of my 1956 Patrician. It had a bit of surface rust, so I sanded it down, and used phosphoric acid gel to remove the rust. Now I am trying to decide if I should paint it or protect it another way (maybe oil).

What did the rear axle housing and diff look like when it came from the factory? Based off of pictures in the service manual, it was black, but was it painted?

I think a matt black paint would probably look clean, however I am a little bit hesitant, because the paint would cover up the original yellow markings from the factory that are on the housing. I don't drive the car in winter or rain, so I was thinking that another way to keep it from rusting, would be to heat it up and cover it with oil.

Thoughts?

Pretty sure everything under the body was painted either flat or semi-gloss black from the factory. Since it was something that wouldn't be seen I don't think they used nice paint.

If it were me I would absolutely paint the axle housing. You went through the time to clean it up, might as well protect it from future corrosion. Oil or another coating (like Fluid Film) will stop corrosion, but they attract a ton of dirt and dust, and need to be reapplied to remain effective. Paint in your case would be a one-time application and would protect longer, and look cleaner longer, than oil or similar.

When I cleaned mine up I ended up just using semi-gloss black from a rattle can. The car doesn't drive in the rain, but I do drive it a lot. The axle looks just as good as it did back when I painted it 3 years ago.

They used cheap-o semi gloss black paint.

Can you send a picture of the yellow marks?

Sounds like painting is the way to go. I went back and looked at the markings, and for all I know it might have been added later. Looking at it again, it's pretty insignificant.
Here's a pic.

Yellow paint is probably the remains of an assembly inspection mark.

POR-15 is a super tough paint, and great for this type of application. There is a rust treatment as well to make sure that's all taken care of. You can brush it on and it will look great!

I'm not sure if you have it there up north, but in Germany, I like to use "Brantho Korrux" 3 in 1. It is easier to apply that POR15, for sunny weather cars it is certainly tough enough, and looks good for my taste. I would also vote for a nice coat of semi-gloss black paint.

Thanks for the advice. Looks like both paints are available.