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

Understood, Joey. My point was that you can't halt or reverse the decay of the Radium.

Quote:
I'm thinking there may be several bulbs out. If it needs it, I will try to obtain some radium paint to brighten the numbers/needles. I'm a graphic artist, and can create an image file for the numbers, and cut a vinyl paint mask on my plotter if I decide to repaint. If I do, I will make it available to anyone who needs it.

My main question was the best procedure for getting the cluster out- full dash removal, or just the cluster?

I thank you all for any suggestions!

On my 50, it's fairly easy to get the whole dash cluster out. You will rub and work against the steering column metal shield, so cover that, or think about dropping the mount on that so you can get it out of the way.

Once it's out, fixing the clock and doing repaints is a breeze, and you can check all the bulbs. Expect some wrist contortioning to get the couple bolts holding it in, out. I'f i recall...6 bolts max holding it in, and then the wiring/speedo cable.

I recently removed the instrument panel for a total rewiring job. It was much easier to remove the fasteners than it was to replace them. The speedo cable comes off easy but the wiring loom was very stiff. The wiring was replaced anyway, so it did not bother me when the dried up insulation crumbled as I moved the wires. If you are not rewiring I suggest using care when moving the wires. If you remove the plate over the loom where it comes through the firewall that will give you some more slack.

I wish there was an instrument repainter that would service the club. All the cars seem to have dull instrument lighting including mine. The radioactive paint and the fussy fine detail seems like a job I would not be good at. Are you watching us Mr. Kanter, Max Merrit, Sandy Chirco, etc.? Somebody must want to turn this need into a business. A Packard expert could also give us an instruction sheet showing the best way to remove and replace the instruments.

I'm sure I could handle the instrument repainting, as I am skilled in the arts and have a great deal of mechanical ability. I don't know how much money could be in it, after all, how many Bathtubs are floating around out there with owners willing to pay for instrument restoration?

From what I've seen, many of you are, as I am, attempting to do much of the work themselves. I would not rule out the possibility of the business as I find myself constantly having to diversify in my vocation to keep afloat.

I could try to find some real radium in China- but I'm wearing protective equipment and not licking my brush.

Not specifically addressing the 22nd/23rd series, but there are quite a few specialists out there already that restore instruments, both mechanically and cosmetically. A browse through Hemmings should identify a few of them.