Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

In 1934 Packard claimed the distinction of being the first automobile manufacturer to engineer a radio into a cars design. To eliminate the problems that had for the most part made automobile radios inefficient, shielded siring and lead-in wires used, the coils were changed ot prevent static, and specially designed dash board was developed by Packard.

Nearly half of all Packard's sold in 1934 came equipped with a radio.

John F. Shireman

And here is what the radio looked like in that dash (less the knobs).

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Thomas: Thank You for the picture of the radio. That sure is one nice looking dashboard.

Do you know who made the radios for Packard in 1934?

John F. Shireman

The radios were made by Philco. I am pretty sure they made all the pre-war radios.

A little bit more information on the 34 radios. They were definately made by Philco for Packard. Also they were made prior to the vibrator radios that were made later. They used a motor/generator to supply the high voltage to the radio. This unit was mounted in either one of the glove boxes or under the front seat. I have completely restored mine and the motor/generator will be under the drivers seat. I was really surprised at how well the radio worked on the workshop bench, can't wait to hear it in the car.
Wade

That is one lovely-looking dashboard! However I believe that the ash tray cover was only woodgrain finished in the 1106 LeBaron Sport Coupe, most or all of the others were nickel or chrome plated.

Just curious if there was much audible noise from motor generator or is it well muffled. Also, some home sets of era used different non rechargable batteries for various voltages & I believe some car sets also had them under seat. Any idea if any of those found way into Packards as stock.

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Dave,

It only looks woodgrained because it's missing . The cover was still at the platers when that photo was taken.

But, what an eye!

Cheers,

Tom

Regarding noise from Motor/generator. In my case you can hardly hear it. The motor/generator is in a steel box that is lined with some sound deadning material and then mounted under the seat. This is how it was when I purchased the vehicle, so I assume that was original.
Wade