[Malibucdl]

Hey guys and gals,

Well, the time is coming near to begin resoring my '53 Packard Clipper. I was thinking about it today, and came up with the question: Where do I begin?

I was thinking to do the engine first and get it completely ready to go, After that do the chassis and suspension. Once that is finshed, prep the body for primer and paint. After the body is painted, finish it up with the interior and trim and completely put it back together.

Is that a good plan? Or is there another order I should take?

thanks in advance guys and gals.

Chris

[78SilverShark]

It all depends. What kind of Rodding will you be doing? If it's just dropping in a new engine and a new paint job (which is perfectly fine, if that's all that is needed and what you are after), then that is good.

But if other systems (suspension, brakes, fuel, etc.) aren't in so good of condition and you know you'll be replacing/upgrading them now or in the future, then you should really do a body-off. That way everything is right there. I have never done it, but I know it will be easier in the long run. Especially with a metal body.

Good luck and most importantly...HAVE FUN!

78SilverShark

[Malibucdl]

I am doing a complete body off restoration to better than showroom quatily. So, I will have my hands full for (I figure) about 4-5 years till completion. I just need to find a place to start.

Chris

[pzatchok]

http://www.packardmuseum.org/

I live close by the museum. In Youngstown, about 15 minutes away. They have a '53 four door on display. I can stop by soon and ask to take a few pics for you. That could give you a real good idea on what it should look like. I've met one of the volunteer mechanics at a car show and he says you can go in and ask one of them for all the help you want on making it factory fresh. Heck they might just help you find any parts you need also. I've seen them interviewed on local TV and they look like a nice group of guys.

My stepfather has 2 '55 carbeans. I helped frame off the second one so I might be able to help with somethings.

[spl_dodge]

So I take it you plan on going back original with your Packard...

I guess I would completely dissasemble the car. Set the engine on a stand and work on it in the midst of rebuilding the frame and the rest of the drive train.

Always remember that everything must have a solid foundation. Now the foundation for a automobile is the frame system. I would start with the frame and then go from there....

Just my 2 cents worth....

[Madd Syntst]

Does it run well? Does it run at all? How is the body? Serious rust? I agree with the foundation statement. chopit If you are going for a points car, you'll have to touch everything! How available are parts? How expensive? chopit Are you ready for a long project? chopit Do you have the space to do this? It's hard to chopit rework an entire car in a single stall garage?

Have you considered a custom?