I have decided to offer my1956 Packard Clipper Custom Constellation - 2 Door Hardtop for sale. While the car shows 75K miles, the mileage is not reflective of condition as the car is in the process of an incomplete restoration assembly. Additionally, the car has a mileage exempt status on the title.
I had purchased this car a little over three years ago since it is such a beautiful, and somewhat rare, Packard. I had found this car as part of the estate of the former two owners and had decided to bring it home to complete the re-assembly that was under way at the time of their passing.
The car was subjected to an extensive restoration and the mechanical systems have been rebuilt for the previous owner that had initiated the restoration. I have completed the rebuild and installation of the formerly detached engine components as well as have had the radiator re-cleaned and the fuel tank re-sealed. I have not installed the fuel tank back onto the car as I simply seem to never get around to it. For the sake of testing the motor, I utilize a fuel can as the source for the fuel pump. In addition to the photographs that I have included, I have a very short video of the engine running below. Please note that new complete exhaust system that I had purchased is not yet installed and therefore the volume of the engine running is loud.
The car is equipped with the pushbutton transmission and the selector works properly.
The condition of the car is as shown in the photographs. The underside is very clean (except the cobwebs from not being worked on) and the car paint is shiny, however there are several chips on some edges as well as some light scuffs that were on the car when I had purchased it.
The car can be rolled around since I have not re-installed the drive shaft. Since the car has the automatic park relay, I have not installed the drive shaft to enable free rolling.
The headliner is partially installed, however it has not been finished or stretched as of yet. The windshield is currently out of the car, the original has a small crack on one corner and I have a brand new windshield still in the shipping box that it came in. It goes with the car.
The interior components were re-upholstered as can be seen in the photographs. There is some storage grime on some of these parts as the car was moved several times by the former owner after he had removed it from the restoration shop where he was having the work completed. The dash wiring needs to be completed as can be seen. The carpet and floor padding is new, also waiting for installation.
From what I can see in the parts that are included, I did not see the rear drive shaft u-joint and the power steering hoses or rubber body seals. The interior stainless trim/chrome is still wrapped in the papers.
The chrome has not been re-done on the bumpers and the two leading trim spears have some oxidation on the side moldings. Some of the other trim may need cleaning due to it residing in my garage for the past three years.
I have not checked out the brake system yet so I cannot specify the condition of the cylinders.
The car is also equipped with the Packard Torsion Level Ride system. Again, I have not had time to check out the operation of the unit.
This car requires completion of the assembly and should be a nice driver once completed. All of the parts shown in the photographs will go with the car. I have come to accept that I will not get enough time in the near future to complete it and have decided to pass it on to someone that can complete it and drive it.
I believe that I have fairly and accurately described the car to any prospective buyer. While I like the car very much, and I have tried to describe it to the best of my abilities, you must rely on your own judgment to ensure that this car meets your expectations. Inspections prior to bidding are welcomed and encouraged. If you wish to schedule an inspection, please send me a contact through e-bay, including your telephone number, and I will contact you directly to arrange a convenient time. The car is being sold "AS IS" "WHERE IS" and any potential buyer is responsible for ensuring that the vehicle meets their expectations prior to bidding.
The winning bidder is required to provide the $500 non-refundable down payment within 24 hours of the end of the sale. The remaining balance is due within 4 business days. Cash, Wire Transfer or certified checks may be used. If you wish to pay with a check, the title and car will not be released from my possession until my receiving bank has fully cleared the check. I will consider the use of Paypal, however, if you wish to pay through Paypal, then you will be required to gross up the amount by the percentage that Paypal collects from my account, if I choose to accept it.
I am sensitive to the issues of arranging transportation if you are a non-local buyer. With that knowledge, the car may remain where it is for up to three (3) weeks from the date that the funds have cleared and the title is released. Please note, that during this time, you will be responsible for the car.
I can also assist a transporter, if requested, to tow the car with a tractor to get it positioned for a trailer to pick it up. While I can help in this capacity, I will not be held responsible for any potential damage if something should go wrong. Your transporter will be required to hook the tow straps onto the vehicle.
Thank you for looking and have a great day.