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I finally got around to putting on the idler arm bracket that attaches to the frame of my 51 200. The work took much longer than I had hoped (SOP) and while laying on my back under the car, I noted that the frame rails on both side, adjacent to the front coil springs, where the frame "V's", had small hairline cracks in the welds. I'll go by my favorite muffler shop and have them rewelded - a small job that will hopefully prevent major problems down the line. It might be worth a look on any 51-54 model. When I get them welded, I'll add some photos.

Thanks David. The next time I'm under my '51 I'll check that out too! Pictures would be great. Think I look under the '55 as well as I'm doing an oil change tomorrow.

Likewise - I'll check mine before engine goes in. Photos would be great thanks.

some photos - The 60 one is general one of the right hand side front A frame around the coil spring, and then a close up. The weld looks like it has about a 1/4" to 3/8" long crack in it. Enough to send the car to my favorite welding shop. I'll get after the area with a wire brush when it cools off a bit - 90 degrees outside at the moment.

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Wish I was around you I would have welded it right up for you. Maybe not perfect but very functional sure. I'm no pro.

Thanks Hank - appreciate the offer. Maybe one of this days I'll get back to the DFW area with one or other of the Packards. My 39 sold new from the Dallas dealer. The muffler shop I go to will weld the cracks up for about $20 or so. I could do it myself, but I hate welding lying on my back in the driveway!