I’ve been into British sports cars lately but every once in a while I get a hankering for a Mustang. I have fond memories of our own Rally Stang and who doesn’t love that pony car shape? A fastback would be very nice but if cost is any concern, a coupe is the only way to go. There’s a nice California black plate ’66 here on eBay. It has been parked for a while but it looks like an easy project.
This car has been sitting for at least 13 years so plan on doing some work before that C-code 289 will run again. Hopefully, the engine turns over freely. If it does, some new fluids and a battery might be all it needs to get started. After that, plan on plugs, wires, points, and a carb rebuild. If you get lucky, you might be able to stop there for a while. I’d play it safe and replace the water pump and any rubber while I was in there though.
Talking about stopping, a brake job should be the next task. Brake fluid absorbs water and rubber breaks down so a new master cylinder and a set of hoses are a must. Once this Mustang is going and stopping, it’ll be time to turn your attention to the cosmetics. Luckily Mustang interior kits are cheap and easy to install. I like the optional Deluxe Pony interior here but what’s up with that bolster? Plan on new foam and possibly some seat frame repairs.
And now onto the exterior. Some classic car newbies will feel the urge to start sanding any drab paint. Don’t do it!!! A new paint job is very expensive and old paint can often be polished up enough to look decent. This car will always look a little rough, but I personally like patina. There are countless shiny Mustangs at car shows across America but something like this will stand out. It looks like a pair of old jeans that have been used and enjoyed. What do you think about this patina pony?
Although I can agree to a point about keeping the paint as-is, this interior/exterior color combo would be stunning once put back close to “as-new”. However- I’d agree with letting sleeping dogs lie (paint-wise) on this one for a while – once paint was done, one would then obligate themselves to replacing/refinishing pretty much EVERY little bit on this car to match the level of the new paint/interior. Down the rabbit hole, you go! Jesse- could you or another viewer provide info on the rare Irish Spring antenna option found on this Mustang?
Patina Patina Patina……Paint It!!!!
I wouldn’t call most of what I see, “patina”. I’d definitely do a repaint.
No need to choose. Drive it as is(after addressing the mechanical needs of course) until you tire of all that “patina” and THEN paint it. That way you get both experiences!
I had a 63 Lincoln that same corporate color. It would look great for about a week after polishing the entire car then the oxidation would take over again. This color is stunning but only on base coat clear coat so it would last