Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

The V8 cars (and many earlier cars as well) use a specialty small head trim screw on many interior parts such as the window moldings. The originals were chromed cheaply and are often deteriorated and rusty. I am buying a full set from a specialty supplier for my cars. In the purchased quantity, I will be getting multiple cars' worth, so I am offering these for sale.

These are available in two types: Chrome- and Zinc-plated. Please see the parts list and price chart below. The price is dependent on the number of screws, up to 114 in the largest set. If you compare to your local hardware store, I think you will find that my price is the same or better, on a piecewise basis, for an exact set of specialty screws, compared to buying the normal too-big screws. Shipping is FREE.

Please note, the Chrome screws will come in the exact original size, but the Zinc screws will come in 3/4, 1, 1-1/4, 1-1/2, and 2 inch lengths, rounded up from the original size. I don't expect this to be a problem except possibly the 1-3/4 screws will need trimmed, which can be done in just a few seconds with a pair of bolt cutters and a grinding wheel to add the tip back on. I will have to test. Packard specified exact lengths usually just to save the $0.0001 that it would cost to use a 1/8" longer screw, not from lack of space. (In fact, every screw listed had a list price of 5 cents, which adjusted for inflation and quantity, is extremely similar to my pricing; an inflation calculator gives $67.86 for a set of 114, compared to my $67.95. An interesting coincidence.)

Please let me know if your car has power front seat (55th only) or Factory A/C as there are a few extra screws required for those. No extra charge.

Hardtop owners, add $5 and I will include a set of 18 new washers for the screws on the front windowsill and window upper molding. Authentic brass-nickel construction. Note: the parts book gives these as Clipper only, but I have seen them on original Senior cars as well. The question is whether the screw is currently sitting flush. If it's recessed, you should add a set of washers. They are often lost during restoration work.

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I decided to add to this listing all the other interior trim screws for an easy aid to restoration or detailing. It is now on my eBay store:ebay.com/itm/256891590153

Just a side note, many years ago I bought a "Trim Screw Set" from M.M. for the '54 Clipper and was disappointed to find that many of the screws were incorrect as they ended up being standard size screw heads, not reduced ones.

Many of those V8 ones, also fit 51-54.

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Yeah, I had the same disappointment returning from the hardware store

I keep an organized inventory of original hardware by part number, so that I can make sure to order the correct item. Some of the original stuff is pretty unusual and you wouldn't be able to tell it by the parts book.

Even the prewar years used various reduced head screws, and prior to 38, they were slotted. Also where standard sized heads were used, they also listed a provision for screws with larger shafts and the a reduced head size to fix scenarios where the screw hole stripped out.

Aka No 8 screw with a No 6 head, etc.