Load-Packer LP300 The short-lived LP-300 series was to be the last variation of the original Load-Packer design which dated back to 1938, and probably first arrived about 1955. The 300 is nearly identical to the LP-200, except that a third, auxiliary compression panel was added above the retainer panel in order to help consolidate the load towards the front of the storage body. Gar Wood literature lists specifications for two models, LP-320 and LP-324 (20 and 24 cubic yard capacity), the latter being noteworthy in that it was the largest packer body ever offered by the firm at that time. Even its replacement, the 1957 LP-500 "Cyclomatic" would not offer this size body initially. US patent number 2,813,641, filed January 26, 1955 and assigned to Gar Wood Industries, describes the triple blade Load-Packer 300. Referring to the illustration at left, you will note the ram and retainer panels typical of the LP-200 (shaded green and blue). However, note the auxiliary packer panel (shaded in red), which was designed to thrust forward during each cycle, keeping the passageway clear. The LP-200 and LP-300 models appeared outwardly identical, except for a slightly taller hood over the upper tailgate section, which accommodated the additional hydraulic cylinders and associated linkage on the 300. The Load-Packer, which had always been a complex machine, became even more so with each modification. The mechanism was not easily accessible for service. It was looking dated, but an all-new packer would arrive for 1957. Photo comparison shows outward difference between LP-200 and LP-300 tailgate: LP-200 (left) has shallow hood over upper tailgate section while LP-300 (right) has a larger cover. This LP-300, mounted on a Ford F-series tandem chassis, was owned by the City of Detroit, Department of Parks and Recreation. It was part of a fleet of nearly 500 Gar Wood Load-Packers in use by that city in 1956. Load-Packers were originally built in Detroit, and (by the early 1950's) in nearby Wayne, Michigan. 9/30/04 (revised 10/6/04) © 2004 Eric Voytko All rights reserved Photos from factory brochures/advertisements except as noted Logos shown are the trademarks of respective manufacturers