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

In lieu of getting the proper Packard gray from Hirsch or Kanter, several have used a Massey-Ferguson tractor engine paint. Here is an example and maybe someone can fill in the blanks. Last time I was in Tractor Supply I noticed there was more than one shade so not sure which one was chosen or is most correct.https://packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?post_id=107060#forumpost107060

Here's what the Kanter gray looks like. I realize that due to lighting, computer screen differences, blah, blah, blah... that no two people are seeing the exact shade of gray that came out of the can but it's a good general idea of the Kanter version of Packard Engine Gray. There are several photos in NotSoBigKevs project blog showing the Hirsch gray (very similar if not the same).

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I notice a quart of Packard Green engine paint for sale at this link

http://www.ebay.com/itm/af53-Kanter-1-QT-Auto-High-Temp-High-Gloss-Packard-Green-Engine-Enamel-1920-1950-/261287808386?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3cd5f78d82&vxp=mtr

that states 1920 to 1950, may help explain green engines which would include the way my 48 was painted.

I think it comes down to this in regards to the straight eight motors:

All 288/327 Motor (Regardless of Year) - Packard Grey

356 and all other motors prior to the 288/327 motors - Packard Green

1954 359 Motor - Bronze

So there is an overlap in 1948-1950 where 356s were green, and the 327s/288s were grey. I think this is where all the confusion started from.

Kanter's description is correct for the 356 motors, just not the 327/288 motors.

This thread wasn't intended to question what color the engines should be as my understanding was the same as O_D's response in post #3. The intent was to try and discover why so many engines that should be gray ended up green. I think Howard's response in post #2 is probably the best answer to that question.

Anyway, based on the on-line photos available, and the responses to this thread, approximately 31% of those observed/reported 22nd/23rd series engines ended up green. This is not statistically significant due to the small sample but I found it interesting anyway. Thanks to all that responded.