My next project? 1921 Packard Coupe

3 minute(s) of a 548 minute read

Thank you "B"

As the fenders, top of the hood and rear deck would be black that probably is not an issue. Remember it has become an open car. Judging from the little that remained of what I believe was the original paint, it was black with blue along the sides. ie. Black fenders and above the waist line with blue on the sides of the hood doors etc. My first priority is for traditional Packard sophistication and elegance. To my mind on many of the restored Single Sixes the blue is too light. It seems that the Brown & Beige combination was used more during the later 1920s That is still probably my first choice still but I would sooner not upset the traditionalists too badly. I believe that with any Packard it should be all about "Elegance, good taste and style"....

Nature is always a great source of inspiration. I just happened to turn over a calendar to May this morning, so we have green on green...

5-6-2011

I have just collected the first batch of things from the platers. Wow! I thought that the work they did on the parts for the Dixie Flyer were good but the headlamps and radiator shell for the Packard. I don't even want to unwrap them to photograph them. I may pluck up enough courage over the weekend. On the subject of things to go to the platers. I have just been sorting out a batch of small parts and guess what... I found the fourth hood latch! Just a day after I have sent off the money for the one I have bought on e-bay this week.

Your idiot friend!

5-9-2011

Some of you may remember I was rather shattered to find that the water-pump came out in eight pieces. Having asked around no one seemed to have a spare body so there was just one solution. Repair the thing. With some help from son Steve the job is done. Steve cleaned up my bronze welding repair to the flange on his lathe and I was so inspired with the result I decided to try completing the repairs today. Starting after lunch I have proved conclusively that eight really can go into one! All it needs now is a new shaft and some new packing gland material and it will be ready to go back onto the engine.

Hi Chris

I am going to replace the shaft as it is badly rust pitted under the seal. I have used the graphite impregnated string in two or three Dodge 4 pumps with good results and intend to try it again in the Packard. Once it settles down I believe that it can be a quite satisfactory solution to the problem. The main problem with the early sealing material usually comes from worn or rusted shafts.