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

Attached is a photo of a hood ornament with part number 383818. It came with a Super Custom Clipper but I cannot seem to find the part number in the 1941-47 Master Parts Book. Was this an undocumented option? Thanks

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For comparison, here is ornament #383544 and it is listed in the 1941-47 parts book under Group 0 bonnet as fitting 1947 2100 series.

(A couple of these on ebay listed as Plymouth)<roll eyes>

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If the number you cite (383818) is actually found on the part itself, there is a possibility that it's a casting number and not a part number. There is a nice little book published on Packard mascots and hood ornaments and I'd guess the answer and explanation is there - I don't have that book but perhaps someone who does will look it up for you. I've certainly seen that ornament on quite a few 21st Series Super Clippers and Custom Super Clippers.

I believe the fancy one is the optional deluxe ornament and won't necessarily be found in regular parts books. Here is a bit from the 46 accessory catalog. If someone has an accessory price list the number might be in there.

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The Kimes-edited book "Packard: A History of the Motor Car and the Company" on page 761 shows the ornament in post #1 and describes it as being used in the 1946-47 21st Series. The ornament was designed by Howard F. Yeager and a patent application was submitted in October of '46 with a patent issued in May of '48. The ornament was changed slightly for the 22nd and 23rd Series (1948-50) by shortening the front part of the base. Although the text doesn't mention whether it is standard or optional, contemporary photos of 21st Series cars feature the ornament shown in post #2 with greater frequency. Perhaps #2 was the standard ornament and #1 optional, or #2 was for the lesser models and #1 reserved for the Supers.

Since the 46-7 deluxe ornament in the accessory catalog has the long base and with the description of the 22-23 series design having the shortened base perhaps an owner had one of those installed on his Clipper.

Thanks for the insights . .I have to agree with su8overdrive's other comments concerning the "streamlined understatement" of a Clipper; in this example the simple ornament seems better suited.