Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Having much difficulty locating the cloth 5" duct that brings fresh air in 55-56 Packards through engine compartment! Leads appreciated!!!!!

JC Whitney. No, really.

So Cal PI chapter sell them. I bought some for my '54. They are perfect fit, and look great. They were not that expensive either.

IIRC, the wire-reinforced duct hose that JC Whitney sells is covered with rubber rather than the coated fabric of the original.

While rubber sounds like it would be more durable, I've seen where the heat of the engine bay cuases the rubber hose to sag noticeably. So, if you go that route, you might have to use some sort of internal support to shore it up.

I don't have my notes handy, but another problem I heard was than the Whitney hose is not available in the correct diameter for these cards - that Packard used an odd (fractional?) size.

The correct material is (at least was) also available from Max Merritt. Bought mine about 9 years ago, not inexpensive.

Thanks Big Kev for PI So. California tip. I've called them and should have the necessary ducting soon. I also tried JC Whitney (on-line) without success. Before all this I had attempted to purchase the ducting locally, and I could have been the proud owner of a 6' long section of black vinyl (with nylon ribbing inserted internally)at the cost of $56 without the 8.1 tax but I passed. My other concern was what Brian wrote about the heat sagging the product. The sun and extra heat in So. Ariz can be very tough on most petroleum based products.

Kevin
Tucson

Kev,

How much was the PI Tubing? I cant remember what I paid for it at the SwapMeet several years ago?

Kev,

Before I tell you how much; let me first tell you about Packards International, from whom I made the 'purchase'! They are the Packard club that is headquartered in California and they are a fine bunch of people who are always ready to help us Packard owners. I called the PI office as you suggested and I was referred to a fellow from the club who handles the 5" air-duct material. Well that was late last week & today a box arrived her at the house with my duct. Also inside the box was a bill. Yup, PI just sent me the product first and now I'll send them their remittance. It's truly a pleasure doing business with them.

$18 for duct plus shipping of $6.

Kevin

That is interesting--both the service and the price. I received the latest 55-6 catalog from a major vendor yesterday and the price is $23 per foot.

I have found that the PI Chapter projects are high quality and the prices are very reasonable. I am glad to hear they gave you good service!