Packard Forum Index » General

Hi all,
I'm looking at the possible purchase of a '52 convertible. All the reference photos on line show three "vents" on either rear fender. The car I'm considering doesn't have these, but does have the chrome trim line running through the front fenders and doors and continuing over the rear fender. Was this a mid-year change or an indication of some poor body repairs?
Thanks for any light you can shed on this.

I wouldn't let the presence or absence or # of scuppers concern me too much, they came and went like the wind from model to model, and were also available as a factory option.

While 3 per side would have been standard on the convertible 250, there are pictures in various books & magazines showing 4 on various models. 4 from the factory would normally be only on the 400 according to the parts book. They were available from the dealer for something like $2.50 each so a cheap dressup. Also possible they were requested to be removed vs a shoddy repair.

If you want to add them back, should be able to find them from parts cars as they were used on lots of models. Next time you view the car, open the trunk and see if there are signs of a proper removal with neatly welded in holes or something else. It's even possible a back end from another car never having any was installed if it had been hit. As O_D said, they came and went and more important would be the condition and correctness of the rest of car.

Full length stainless trim means the car is a 53, or has been updated to 53 trim. There should be a few photos in the photo archive here.

51 and 2s have a speedline embossed in the body sheet metal just above the rear wheel. You can always check the serial plate on the driver's door post to be certain. The first four digits will be 2579 if it is a 52, 2679 if it is a 53.

Thanks to all for your thoughtful replies. When I have my next look at the car, I'll certainly know a little more about it!
Currently the car is in an underground garage in Ontario, Canada, owned by the widow of the previous owner. It's parked in a somewhat inaccessible spot in the basement of a seniors' home, and suffers from a blockage in the fuel system & won't start. My first cursory inspection showed it to be in reasonably good, original shape, with only one repaint to a period correct color. If everything else checks out on my next trip north, I may have a new car to add to the registry!

Quote:Quote:G'day cottagstan,
to PackardInfo, you've made my day!

Without even a hint or a nudge you're going to add your possible Packard to the Packard Owner's Registry! Wish you well with your prospective Packard purchase and looking forward to seeing it in the Registry.