Print Page - T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 28, 2011, 08:03:02 AM

:evilgrin: Well today the boss and I are going to go get my car and bring it to the shop. I'll work on it when it's slow, after hrs, and on the weekends. Of course I'll post pics when I get things done on it. :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 28, 2011, 03:33:04 PM

Well @#*!!! :mad: The starter went out in the boss's p/u. Getting starter put in as I type. My car will have to wait till tomorrow :toilet: :punchballs:
So, since I was unable to work on my car, I worked on the K-member I'll be swapping out. I got rid of all the welding slag and have the bottom side painted (sorry, I'll get pics of it painted tomorrow) I did get a couple of pics of it all sanded.

Sorry they are blurry, had camera setting issues, hope tomorrows pics are clearer.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on November 29, 2011, 06:17:41 PM

So what are the overall plans for your car man?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 29, 2011, 09:00:40 PM

My plan is to make it to where I can autox it, I kinda like the pro-touring thing. I know there'll be a weight disadvantage, but I plan on retaining the p/w, a/c, and most if not all the other accessories. I almost forgot.......I will also have a good sound system. Here are some pics of my car in it's new temporary home and a little work that I got done.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Shadow on November 29, 2011, 09:02:42 PM

whoa, i like those wheels.. what are they?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 29, 2011, 09:05:51 PM

More pics.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 29, 2011, 09:12:58 PM

Mitsu Starion wheels. They are coming off as I wont be able to use them with the new brake setup going on. Here are a few more pics.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Bruce M on November 29, 2011, 09:15:25 PM

They look like Toyota celica wheels.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Shadow on November 29, 2011, 09:23:55 PM

i like em, they compliment the body nicely

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 29, 2011, 09:28:45 PM

I'll be finishing up the sanding tomorrow then I need to do a little body work on the passenger side and a few little spots on the drivers side. Then maybe get the doors off.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 29, 2011, 09:31:16 PM

The toyota had a 4 lug version. These were also used on The Chrysler Starion. Sorry, the mitsu's were Conquests.
These would stay but I need 17" wheels

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on December 01, 2011, 12:19:04 AM

Sweet it's finally going to have paint :).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 01, 2011, 08:02:46 AM

Quote from: thunderjet302;374300

Sweet it's finally going to have paint :).

I know right lol

I found some very minor damage hidden on the R/S quarter. I also found a couple of rust bubbles that appeared to be minor but after sanding the spots, they look like they will need to be patched, but I'm going to try spot blasting them first.
I'm puzzled as to why Ford didn't put connectors for the door wiring and also that they didn't allow for window removal without a fight. lol, oh well. I didn't get as much done as I had planned but I did get almost all of the engine bay stripped out. I've got it up on stands and will be dropping the f & r suspensions out, probably next week.....maybe

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: t3skidoo on December 01, 2011, 10:24:27 AM

1BadBird, what did you do use for removing the welding slag?

As I look at your K-member, the thought keeps occurring, how much weight could be removed from the factory piece w/out affecting structural integrity. Anybody know?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: RoyLPita on December 01, 2011, 11:39:17 AM

Are those the staggered Mitsu wheels?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 01, 2011, 04:13:58 PM

Quote from: RoyLPita;374323

Are those the staggered Mitsu wheels?

Ya they are. It has 16X9s and 16X8s. I tried to find another good pair of 16X9s but now it don't matter.

Quote from: t3skidoo;374321

1BadBird, what did you do use for removing the welding slag?
As I look at your K-member, the thought keeps occurring, how much weight could be removed from the factory piece w/out affecting structural integrity. Anybody know?

I just used 2" 3M roto locks, 40 grit then followed by surface-prep pads. I had thought about cutting 2" holes through-out with a hole saw, but who knows, I might get a MM tubular one in the future.

Title: Update: More progress Pics
Post by: 1BadBird on December 03, 2011, 05:25:48 PM

Ok, now that I have retrieved my camera from the bosses p/u at work, I can post pics the of little bit of progress I've made.

Title: Yet more Pics
Post by: 1BadBird on December 03, 2011, 05:30:16 PM

Here's a few of the blasted spots :punchballs:

Granted, those aren't near as bad as some.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 03, 2011, 05:37:30 PM

Quote from: t3skidoo;374321

As I look at your K-member, the thought keeps occurring, how much weight could be removed from the factory piece w/out affecting structural integrity. Anybody know?

Here is the original k-member. As you can see, there's a lot of holes. I might need to do that cutting I mentioned earlier after-all. :evilgrin:

I still need to strip it down completely. The entire front LSC brake setup is up for grabs as well as the K-member, otherwise it's off to the s yard.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 05, 2011, 08:07:11 PM

I got a little more done today but nothing pic worthy. I'm raising the car up so I can paint & raptorize the bottom side. While I have the IRS out, my plans are to tear it all down and paint it all and install those 4:30s.

Title: A little progress
Post by: 1BadBird on December 06, 2011, 08:13:20 PM

Pretty much stripped out now. Just the dash and wiring harness.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Bruce M on December 06, 2011, 08:55:24 PM

Nice!!! I want IRS. Is it out of a Cobra or a newer bird.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 06, 2011, 09:03:07 PM

03" Cobra. The newer birds (mn12s) mount differently, same center section but everything else is different.

Title: Todays progress pics
Post by: 1BadBird on December 07, 2011, 06:01:00 PM

Well I got more things done today. Almost ready to start the actual repair work.

After

During

The rats nest

Title: Engine bay progress/ Temporary wheels
Post by: 1BadBird on December 09, 2011, 08:15:45 PM

Here's the progress of the engine bay, would've got more done but I ran out of welding gas :punchballs:

Still need to make the filler pieces on the front frames

A guy came into the shop yesterday and saw my old wheels, he asked me if I'd be interested in some 17X8 tri bars off a 97 cobra, What do you all think?? He brought them over today to let me see them.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Shadow on December 10, 2011, 01:50:52 AM

i always thought they were the ugliest mustang wheels ever, but that's just my opinion.. lol

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on December 10, 2011, 09:31:47 AM

Yeah I'm not a fan of the tri-bars, but its your car. Nice work on everything so far!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 10, 2011, 09:43:44 AM

I don't particularly like them, but they will work to roll around on after I get the front brakes back on.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Cougar8775 on December 10, 2011, 11:40:39 AM

hell if the price is right just use em to roll the car around on. that way you dont mess up the good wheeles when you prime and paint it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on December 10, 2011, 02:42:37 PM

Oh ok, I thought those were the wheels you were going with on the finished product. They will work fine for rollers, lol.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 10, 2011, 08:04:11 PM

Quote from: Cougar8775;375151

hell if the price is right just use em to roll the car around on. that way you dont mess up the good wheeles when you prime and paint it.

He wants to trade those for my Conquest wheels

Quote from: 50tbrd88;375182

Oh ok, I thought those were the wheels you were going with on the finished product. They will work fine for rollers, lol.

Na, I'll be running 18X10s all the way around

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Cougar8775 on December 10, 2011, 08:54:04 PM

well if your not gonna use the wheeles that were on it before then id say go for it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 10, 2011, 08:57:52 PM

I'm thinking I will, I was also thinking about painting them satin black. Maybe keep em for track use.....just in case of a slip up. :P

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: gumby on December 10, 2011, 09:31:44 PM

Lookin good! Glad to see it coming along

I think you should consider keepin the StarQuest wheels on it, and runnin a 12" front rotor. I have always liked those wheels, and they look good on your 4eye!

*edit
Mitsubishi Starion/Chrysler Conquest, BTW. You had it right the first time

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 10, 2011, 09:37:24 PM

Thanks Gumby. So am I.....finally!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 11, 2011, 10:57:32 AM

Photo shopped the wheels satin black like. don't laugh too hard, first time using it :mullet:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Cougar8775 on December 11, 2011, 11:36:59 AM

doesnt look too bad. what are your plans for paint? because i ask this is it would depend on the body color if the black wheeles would blend in too much or would off set the body color.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 11, 2011, 03:31:17 PM

I'm going to go with a darker Ford metalic blue. If I keep them, I'll probably use them for track use. The wheels I'll be getting for it later, will be Black Chrome FR500 replicas.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 11, 2011, 03:33:42 PM

Quote from: gumby;375209

Lookin good! Glad to see it coming along

I think you should consider keepin the StarQuest wheels on it, and runnin a 12" front rotor. I have always liked those wheels, and they look good on your 4eye!

*edit
Mitsubishi Starion/Chrysler Conquest, BTW. You had it right the first time

LOL, When I win the lottery, I could always have Foose design me a set like 'em in 18s...... Oh wait, he likes 20s or larger lol

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Cougar8775 on December 11, 2011, 10:28:39 PM

just wonder if it would be too much dark color. but my gmc dosent look bad being green with the black chevy wheeles on it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Shadow on December 12, 2011, 12:36:29 AM

Quote from: 1BadBird;375246

LOL, When I win the lottery, I could always have Foose design me a set like 'em in 18s...... Oh wait, he likes 20s or larger lol

if you throw enough money at him, he'll make you 10's and like it lol

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: StrokerBird on December 15, 2011, 11:38:47 PM

How much fab work was involved with installing the IRS?

Title: Last Pics for awhile
Post by: 1BadBird on December 16, 2011, 09:30:35 PM

The majority of the work was, lengthening the front cradle mounting points 3/4", removing part of the P/S fuel tank bracket, drilling holes to hold the rear brackets. On a mustang, the quad shock mounts are where the brackets attach, but on our birds the quad mounts are further back. It was a relatively painless install.

Now for a few latest pics. Work is picking up so work on my car is going to slow down, but not stop.

All welded up and ground smooth

first layer of all-metal filler

trial fit of the hydro-boost unit

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thewestie on December 17, 2011, 07:26:27 PM

Looks great

Title: UPDATE: Pics
Post by: 1BadBird on April 12, 2012, 03:18:53 PM

Ok, so I've got a little work done.

All ready for primer

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 86T-bird on April 12, 2012, 05:00:58 PM

Great work (and by the pics, a ton of it). Smoothing the engine bay really makes it pop!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 12, 2012, 05:07:10 PM

Quote from: thewestie;375768

Looks great

Thanks

Quote from: 86T-bird;386631

Great work (and by the pics, a ton of it). Smoothing the engine bay really makes it pop!

Thanks, ya a lot of it. I'm going to get into primer tomorrow afternoon or this weekend.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: EFFalcon on April 12, 2012, 06:39:24 PM

wow, thats a real inspiration.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 12, 2012, 07:00:14 PM

My wife took this pic, you all don't hurt yourself laughing

A little body mod

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 12, 2012, 07:01:36 PM

One more subtle mod

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Bob on April 13, 2012, 09:09:58 AM

Looking good! Can't wait to see more of it

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on April 13, 2012, 09:24:21 AM

The finished product is going to be awesome. I'd love to tear my car down and do this someday...probably 30 years from now when I retire, lol. If you weren't so far north I'd come check this out myself!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on April 13, 2012, 10:32:43 PM

It's starting to look like a car:).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 14, 2012, 06:14:38 PM

Quote from: Bob;386667

Looking good! Can't wait to see more of it

Quote from: 50tbrd88;386669

The finished product is going to be awesome. I'd love to tear my car down and do this someday...probably 30 years from now when I retire, lol. If you weren't so far north I'd come check this out myself!

Thanks guys. I'm crossing fingers, toes, and eyes...... no, maybe I shouldn't do that one lol, that it turns out looking like I intend it to.

Quote from: thunderjet302;386745

It's starting to look like a car:).

Ya, someday

Title: Todays Pics
Post by: 1BadBird on April 18, 2012, 09:44:35 PM

All primerd and ready to block.

At least the engine bay that is. :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 18, 2012, 09:49:17 PM

One more shot.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on April 18, 2012, 09:54:10 PM

Wow that looks great! One of these days I want to have mine smoothed out like that.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: daminc on April 18, 2012, 09:55:49 PM

nice job...

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bryan163 on April 18, 2012, 09:59:47 PM

That's a nice looking engine bay

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 18, 2012, 10:12:38 PM

Thanks for the kind words guys.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: cougarman on April 19, 2012, 07:31:30 AM

Very awesome!!!!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 26, 2012, 07:51:32 PM

I managed to get the engine bay blocked and reprimed today. It doesn't look any different than the other pics so........ sorry, no new pics. Tomorrow I'll be wiping down the underside so I can spray it with the Black chassis-saver.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 28, 2012, 08:58:24 AM

Here are a few pics of what I got done in the last few days.

More to follow :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 28, 2012, 09:01:57 AM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 28, 2012, 09:08:40 AM

Those plates are the spacers for my k-member

More to follow

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 28, 2012, 09:13:27 AM

Got the chassis-saver sprayed, next to spray to Raptor bed-liner underneath.

Yet more to come

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 28, 2012, 09:17:10 AM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 28, 2012, 09:23:45 AM

These pics doesn't do the color justice

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on April 28, 2012, 11:02:51 AM

Wow, you have been busy! That color looks good.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: T-BirdX3 on April 28, 2012, 11:39:01 AM

Very nice, that color is going to be awesome!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Beau on April 28, 2012, 02:42:36 PM

Awesome!

I'd kinda wondered about using spray on bedliner type stuff as an undercoating....I figured one would have to mask off all the smaller holes for bolts and such...or could you take something and se or cut it out after spraying it on?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: lakenheath24 on April 28, 2012, 07:17:39 PM

Nice! Far better than mine.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on April 28, 2012, 08:35:59 PM

Looks nice! That blue is going be very cool!! Looks like a ton of metal flake in there.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 29, 2012, 09:21:34 PM

I added just a "Touch" of micro-sequins to it :evilgrin: There wasn't enough sparkle in it for me. After I spray the raptor and boom mat in, I'll be painting the engine bay.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on April 29, 2012, 09:27:55 PM

Quote from: 1BadBird;388390

I added just a "Touch" of micro-sequins to it :evilgrin: There wasn't enough sparkle in it for me. After I spray the raptor and boom mat in, I'll be painting the engine bay.

looks really good, nice progress......

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 30, 2012, 08:44:55 AM

Thanks guys :)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 30, 2012, 09:22:16 PM

Here's a few pics of the spraying I got done today.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 30, 2012, 09:26:18 PM

More pics :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on April 30, 2012, 09:29:42 PM

Last pic, this is what I used.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: The Shredder on April 30, 2012, 10:13:33 PM

That ought to protect it from corrosion!!! :)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: daminc on April 30, 2012, 10:29:44 PM

looks real nice...
even the matching cob webs.....lol

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 01, 2012, 07:12:32 AM

Quote from: daminc;388501

looks real nice...
even the matching cob webs.....lol

LOL ya, forgot to knock them off. Pesky little varmits, they kept restringing their stupid web. Well now at least they are well protected........till I get to work today that is :evilgrin: :beatyoass:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: flylear45 on May 16, 2012, 05:37:35 AM

Interesting approach using the bed liner. I like it!

I'll bet the sound deadening properties are really good as well. I'd like to see how it feels when it's done. I'd think it'll feel super solid and quiet.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 29, 2012, 12:03:14 PM

Quote from: ThunderbirdSport302;388256

Awesome!

I'd kinda wondered about using spray on bedliner type stuff as an undercoating....I figured one would have to mask off all the smaller holes for bolts and such...or could you take something and se or cut it out after spraying it on?

All I did was used regular tin foil. I rolled it into plugs and inserted them into all the holes and wrapped all the studs. It didn't take much to pull them back out.

I didn't like how the Boom mat looked so I resprayed the inside with more raptor and will use another product as a heat
barrier. I haven't been able to work on it much this last month. 12 hr days at work and stuff to do at the house. :disappoin

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on May 29, 2012, 08:03:56 PM

You used a higher grade of what I used. I used that lo-po advanced knockoff undercoating. It looks top notch!

Cant wait to see your bird in color.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: jaa55 on May 29, 2012, 09:18:09 PM

this car is great......Looks like you started with a good car to begin with

if you need any info on the DOHC swap, Ive done one myself.....you can PM me if you want anything

(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/6131/mustang057.jpg)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 29, 2012, 09:40:24 PM

ja
That's a sweet ride. You miss it?? Ya, I'll definitely hit you up for some wiring tips.

87thunderbirdblackjack
I'd like to see your car as well. Our get-together is still on, it's just delayed a bit longer.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: jaa55 on May 29, 2012, 10:01:19 PM

definitely miss it......it was an awesome car.... I have a ton of pictures of it.

they are very cool swaps and it will get a ton of attention! I still remember a majority of the wiring that went on, Ill be happy to let you pick my brain if you have any issues. I had everything working, AC stock gauges all of it

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on May 29, 2012, 10:32:28 PM

Quote from: 1BadBird;391073

87thunderbirdblackjack
I'd like to see your car as well. Our get-together is still on, it's just delayed a bit longer.

with the way money is comming in... or lack there of, my car wont be done any time soon. It'll be driveable HOPEFULLY by winter. but then its winter... and Im not going to drive it. So Im aiming high for next summer to be ripping through town in it.

Im still interested in comming to the shop warming.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 20, 2012, 01:42:23 PM

Quote from: 87thunderbirdBlackJack;391077

Im still interested in comming to the shop warming.

You still more than welcome to come over for the warming. I'll update the other thread in a while.

I'll be posting pics of the engine bay all painted up when I get home tonight. I'm currently still at work and I can't upload pics from here. Hope you all enjoy them.......

Title: Pics as promised :D
Post by: 1BadBird on June 20, 2012, 05:57:48 PM

Ok here are a series of pics from today's venture. Tell me what you all of the color :mullet:

All final wet sanded N ready to seal

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 20, 2012, 06:01:21 PM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 20, 2012, 06:04:54 PM

Base sprayed. Ready for the shiny stuff ;)

Sorry bout the last 2 pics being a little fuzzy

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 20, 2012, 06:07:18 PM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 20, 2012, 06:09:33 PM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1986Élan on June 20, 2012, 07:13:11 PM

very nice 1Badbird

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 20, 2012, 08:17:40 PM

Looks great!

I miss all the holes ;).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: hypostang on June 20, 2012, 09:40:38 PM

Gorgeous color !!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 20, 2012, 09:49:29 PM

Thanks guys. The color turned out better than I had hoped.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on June 20, 2012, 10:22:28 PM

Looks awsome!! One day I'd like to have my engine bay done like that.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Dan B. on June 21, 2012, 05:50:49 AM

Quote from: 1Bad88tbird;392932

Looks awsome!! One day I'd like to have my engine bay done like that.

Bring it up so I can get started on it!! ;)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on June 21, 2012, 09:33:26 AM

You keep tempting me. One of these days I might take you up on it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 21, 2012, 10:18:09 PM

Here's what I got done today. The fenders are just hangin there to keep them out of the way.

This will be reinstalled tomorrow

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on June 22, 2012, 12:04:27 AM

Nice to see it going back together.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on June 22, 2012, 12:07:07 AM

looking awesome, seeing the bare metal, it reminds me of a P-51 Fighter......

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 22, 2012, 07:27:55 AM

Quote from: MY83T;393010

seeing the bare metal, it reminds me of a P-51 Fighter......

LOL, never thought about it that way :rollin: bur your right, it does.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 22, 2012, 07:29:25 AM

Quote from: MY83T;393010

seeing the bare metal, it reminds me of a P-51 Fighter......

LOL, never thought about it that way :rollin: but your right, it does

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on June 22, 2012, 11:35:10 AM

(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/3661300691_4e685d1c8b.jpg)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 5.8fastcat on June 23, 2012, 08:45:38 PM

Great Looking Job.

How well I remeber those days.

Just repainted my engine compartment

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 24, 2012, 11:36:30 AM

Thanks Fastcat.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 26, 2012, 08:10:13 PM

Decided to go another direction with the paint. How do you all like it?

HEHEHEHE LOL JK just a couple of pics with the etch prime.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Sinista Chicken on June 26, 2012, 08:19:51 PM

Love the blue in the engine bay, what color is that? The yellow will contrast nice with the blue.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 26, 2012, 08:27:10 PM

Quote from: 1BadBird;393284

HEHEHEHE LOL JK
just a couple of pics with the etch prime.

:mullet:

It's etch primer lol. ;) It's still going to be Blue

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: EFFalcon on June 26, 2012, 09:34:21 PM

but beige is so unassuming :P

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 26, 2012, 10:12:55 PM

Quote from: EFFalcon;393290

but beige is so unassuming :P

:rollin: :giggle: :laughing:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: FirstBird on June 26, 2012, 11:31:36 PM

Throw in some flames on the side and a 6 foot wing and you'll have a nice car.... lol

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on June 27, 2012, 08:34:41 AM

Looks like good progress is being made. The blue color you've chosen is going to look awesome.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 27, 2012, 01:37:16 PM

Quote from: FirstBird;393299

Throw in some flames on the side and a 6 foot wing and you'll have a nice car.... lol

What!! only a 6' wing?? How bout a 3 or 4 stack wing??

Quote from: 50tbrd88;393304

Looks like good progress is being made. The blue color you've chosen is going to look awesome.

Thanks 50tbrd88. We have a mixing system that makes it nice and easy to pick a color, mix it, and tweek it to ones liking :evilgrin:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: FirstBird on June 27, 2012, 11:11:15 PM

I heard those add each stack is about 100hp so the more the better. HAHA nice ride and that blue looks awesome. i wonder how it would look if you polished out the metal and sprayed some clear on it.

Title: Just a couple pics
Post by: 1BadBird on July 07, 2012, 02:36:28 PM

Haven't got much done lately, but the body n doors are almost ready for paint. Body work done just need to prime n block a few times.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 09, 2012, 10:51:10 AM

Last couple

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on July 09, 2012, 11:04:50 AM

Sweet! You're making good progress!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 09, 2012, 02:29:28 PM

Thanks, that's what my boss keeps saying too.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 11, 2012, 06:20:48 PM

Ok, here she is all primed & ready for initial blocking.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 11, 2012, 06:22:36 PM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 86T-bird on July 11, 2012, 06:49:09 PM

Wow! Great to see. It's got to feel great to have all that work behind you!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 11, 2012, 08:00:04 PM

Thanks, yes it does feel good and being able to see it come together. Although it still feels like I've barley scratched the surface as I still have a 5+ page TO-DO-List. Also have the trunk, hood, the little strips on top of the body, and the inside of the doors to get ready for paint.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: flylear45 on July 11, 2012, 09:15:44 PM

Ah, memories! Looks like mine about 7 months ago! Looking good, bud.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: ipsd on July 11, 2012, 11:23:52 PM

All I can say is not in a Bad way but a I wish that was MY car way. Always looks nice to see a car we like getting all dolled up! I like it

Stuckman

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on July 11, 2012, 11:53:08 PM

great progress, keep the pics coming!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: lakenheath24 on July 12, 2012, 06:10:55 AM

, one day....ONE day!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: cougarcragar on July 12, 2012, 07:40:29 PM

Excellent work so far. Thanks for the updates.

Title: A Few Pics for Today
Post by: 1BadBird on July 28, 2012, 08:56:41 PM

Quote from: cougarcragar;394262

Excellent work so far. Thanks for the updates.

Thanks again everyone. Not a problem on the updates, I enjoy keeping everyone up to date.......may not be real good about it :mullet: Anyway, here's a few pics of the work I was able to get done Friday.

Can the slight modification be seen??

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: daminc on July 28, 2012, 09:34:53 PM

nice.....

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 88turbo on July 28, 2012, 09:35:58 PM

you talking about the little spot in the roof? what is that for?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 28, 2012, 10:13:46 PM

Yep, It's for a little roof mount antenna.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on August 11, 2012, 10:23:47 AM

Just a couple of pics of the final wet sanding.

I'll be going back tomorrow to finish blocking & priming the doors. Then I'll get back on wet sanding. Then I'll have just the hood and trunk to do.......... Sooo close and yet sooo far. LOL

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: FirstBird on August 11, 2012, 01:54:27 PM

Just by all the pictures I can see you're putting allot of work into this bird, it's going to look killer I bet.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: flylear45 on August 12, 2012, 08:29:25 AM

Nice work so far! It is gonna be very flat and nice.

Keep on plugging, it gets tedious during this part.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on August 12, 2012, 02:07:30 PM

Quote from: FirstBird;395755

Just by all the pictures I can see you're putting allot of work into this bird, it's going to look killer I bet.

Thanks, na not that much work, just a lot of..... luuv, and an understanding wife (she's starting to get impatient) :D That's what I'm shooting for.

Quote from: flylear45;395786

Nice work so far! It is gonna be very flat and nice.

Keep on plugging, it gets tedious during this part.

Thanks.
Don't I know it LOL. And yes I'll keep plugging away, hard part is keeping focused and not trying to do all the parts at the same time. I keep reminding myself PATIENCE!!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on August 12, 2012, 09:49:30 PM

Didn't get as much done as I would've liked. But here's a couple pics any.

Had to do a little glazing on both doors.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Crazy88 on August 12, 2012, 10:00:37 PM

It is looking great! I look forward to the next installment.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 13, 2012, 09:04:22 PM

You're removing the door handles?

Looking good :).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on August 13, 2012, 10:03:19 PM

Quote from: Crazy88;395849

It is looking great! I look forward to the next installment.

Thanks, The next installment might be awhile.......

Quote from: thunderjet302;395933

You're removing the door handles?

Looking good :).

Thanks Lou. Yep. got ride of 'em :D I'm surprised you didn't see that before. ;)

Did you notice something extra in the top pic?? :P (post #138)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 14, 2012, 10:02:12 PM

Quote from: 1BadBird;395947

Thanks, The next installment might be awhile.......

Thanks Lou. Yep. got ride of 'em :D I'm surprised you didn't see that before. ;)

Did you notice something extra in the top pic?? :P (post #138)

Antenna in the middle of the roof and the spot for the antenna on the passenger fender is shaved off :).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on August 16, 2012, 10:33:14 AM

Yes sir, just wanted something slightly different. ;)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 06, 2012, 09:39:40 PM

Ok, here's a few more pics. The bird is about ready for paint, just need to put the seam sealer in some seams. I'm going to paint the inside of the header panel and doors tomorrow.

The rear glass is just resting there.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: BJL on September 06, 2012, 10:12:49 PM

im gonna miss it baremetal.... looking awesome. you are a perfectionist. cant wait to see it shiny!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 07, 2012, 08:01:20 AM

Thanks Brian. LOL the wife says that I'm too buttstuff about stuff like this. :mullet:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 07, 2012, 08:45:38 PM

So today I got the seam sealer in where it needed to go. The wife stopped by and we did a once-over of the body. We found a couple flaws on the right bodyline and a cut/scratch on the right rear of the roof. :punchballs: We're still trying to figure that one out. Oh well.
Anyway here's some pics of what I got sprayed today :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 07, 2012, 08:48:26 PM

More pics :hick:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 07, 2012, 08:52:03 PM

Last pic for today

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Crazy88 on September 07, 2012, 08:54:23 PM

Lookin' real nice. What paint are you using and what color is that?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 07, 2012, 09:03:11 PM

Thanks Crazy.
I'm using Sherwin-Williams ATX. The paint color is called Kona Blue Metallic. :evilgrin: Although I did add some extra "sparkle" to it. We have mixing system so it's easier to customize the paint. :evilgrin:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Crazy88 on September 07, 2012, 09:10:55 PM

When I paint mine, I am gonna go with the PPG line, primarily because the guy that is gonna shoot her for me has an in with Auto Body Color and Supply in both Nashville and Knoxville. We are doing this in trade, I build and maintain his new website and he helps me out with bodywork and shooting the car, which seems like a fair trade to both of us. ;)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 07, 2012, 09:24:29 PM

Nothing like a little bartering to get things done. We used to use PPG but the place we bought it from refused to get us a mixing system. There was just WAY too much waste, both in material and time if something wasn't right. The Sherwin reps made us a killer deal on a mixing system and they also sent us to class for their products. So far I've been to 2 classes, 1 for product cert and the 2nd for painter cert. I'll be going this month for 3 days, 17th - 19th for color blending/matching. All on their dime other than for fuel back and forth to the tech center. Their support is tremendous. If we have a problem matching a color, we give a small part to our rep and they send it to North Carolina to the paint lab and they match it there perfectly and put the formula into the system.
Uhhh sorry for my ramblings there.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: daminc on September 07, 2012, 09:34:27 PM

the door jambs make or break the entire job....looking good

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on September 07, 2012, 09:54:02 PM

Looks great! I cant wait til I can blow my car apart and start getting ready for paint.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 07, 2012, 10:03:20 PM

Quote from: daminc;397684

the door jambs make or break the entire job....looking good

Thanks Daminc. I agree on the jams. The boss asked me today if I was going to put the doors back on before I painted the body and I told him no cause I didn't want any kind of lines or edges in the jams.

Quote from: 87thunderbirdBlackJack;397686

Looks great! I cant wait til I can blow my car apart and start getting ready for paint.

It'll feel great when you get to that point and even better when it's finished.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on September 08, 2012, 08:21:20 AM

I really like that color! I think it's going to look great. I had my car done with the barter system to and while doing it he showed and had me strip and sand it. I can't do the work like alot of guys on here but I like being able to at least say I was able to help with it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Big B on September 11, 2012, 07:40:12 PM

Great Project! Looks like you really have a lot of love for your car. You have done alot of excellent work here!

I wish my boss would let me use the shop to work on my cars...LOL! Can't wait to get started on making my '88 all smooth and shiny though. I have a long ways to go to catch up with you.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 83TB on September 11, 2012, 07:43:37 PM

Looking good!!!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 11, 2012, 10:47:26 PM

Quote from: Big B;398039

Great Project! Looks like you really have a lot of love for your car. You have done alot of excellent work here!

I wish my boss would let me use the shop to work on my cars...LOL! Can't wait to get started on making my '88 all smooth and shiny though. I have a long ways to go to catch up with you.

LoL My boss is a really cool guy. He keeps asking me if I'm sure I want to drive it after I'm all finished. DUUUUH

Quote from: 83TB;398040

Looking good!!!

Thanks :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: beast50 on September 11, 2012, 11:04:41 PM

:bowdown:

Can you do my car next??

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 12, 2012, 11:56:49 AM

Quote from: beast50;398064

:bowdown:

Can you do my car next??

Hmmmmmmmmm. That might be a possibility

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on September 12, 2012, 11:21:33 PM

Looking good.
Kona blue is a nice color. It was the second color choice behind grabber blue when we went looking for a Mustang. Grabber blue won. I think Kona works with the lines of a T-bird very well. These cars tend to look better with dark colors.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 13, 2012, 08:00:15 AM

Thanks Lou. :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Crazy88 on September 13, 2012, 06:54:47 PM

Quote from: thunderjet302;398147

These cars tend to look better with dark colors.

I would tend to agree with you, but I think it has more to do with the darker colors making the style lines, such as those on the rear of the roof panel of the 84-86 'Birds, more visible. You can still see and appreciate the lines when using lighter shades, but the lines tend to blend more.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 13, 2012, 10:08:20 PM

Well, I just finished painting the doors, fenders and header panel....... They're Blue. I'll post pics tomorrow morning. Closing down the shop and getting ready to head home and to bed. Later :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 14, 2012, 07:47:24 AM

Here's last nights progress :D Everything all ready for sealing. Sorry but I didn't get in between pics.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 14, 2012, 07:52:41 AM

Some more pics.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 14, 2012, 07:55:14 AM

Yet more pics

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 14, 2012, 07:57:04 AM

Ok, last one

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on September 14, 2012, 08:02:18 AM

beautiful.........

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on September 14, 2012, 08:30:03 AM

Lookin good!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 14, 2012, 09:21:38 AM

Thanks guys.
It's lookin better than I had hoped. After I get the rest of the parts painted, I'll wait a couples 3 weeks before I cut and buff everything.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on September 14, 2012, 11:42:52 AM

Nice :).

It's really going to pop in the sun.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 14, 2012, 11:49:23 AM

Quote from: thunderjet302;398207

Nice :).

It's really going to pop in the sun.

LOL, I'll pass out sunglasses :mullet:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 17, 2012, 10:20:26 PM

Well it looks like I'll be painting the body in the next couple days. :evilgrin: I was supposed to have a hard hit malibu come in tomorrow but they rescheduled to next Monday. Darn double edged sword :mad:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on September 18, 2012, 12:05:09 AM

I might have missed it but are you going to pinstripe it? add a accent color?

Imm diggin that custom touch to the Kona Blue

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 86T-bird on September 18, 2012, 05:01:11 AM

Nice work! The metalic really pops.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 18, 2012, 08:08:50 AM

Quote from: 87thunderbirdBlackJack;398494

I might have missed it but are you going to pinstripe it? add a accent color?

Imm diggin that custom touch to the Kona Blue

Thanks, I haven't decided if I'm going to do an accent color or ??

Quote from: 86T-bird;398503

Nice work! The metalic really pops.

Thanks. I hope you're healing well. I took a fender outside and boy did it sparkle!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on September 18, 2012, 10:25:36 AM

The metallic flake in there is very striking and like everyone else said, should really look nice in the sun. I like it a lot, I've always been a fan of blue vehicles.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 18, 2012, 11:02:16 AM

The wife says that with the added "Sparkle" that I should run these chrome Foose Legends and not the wheels in the next pic.

(http://www.discountedwheelwarehouse.com/zca.cfm?go=zImgLightBox&f=Foose-Legend.jpg&crop=1&w=600&h=600&imagePath=images)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 18, 2012, 11:03:37 AM

These are the other wheels I kinda liked.

(http://www.discounttiredirect.com/product/wheels/flkrt5.bcm.xl.jpg)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on September 18, 2012, 11:48:00 AM

I vote for the Foose wheels, but I'm definately not a fan of black wheels.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on September 18, 2012, 02:25:29 PM

I think if you did the center of the grill and black headlight buckets it would make it look real mean with the trim around the windows blacked out and such.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on September 18, 2012, 02:34:28 PM

(http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/cll-7275401545_w.jpg)

Center Line Wheels 7277804545 - Center Line Wheels Competition Series Split Spoke on summit 17x8

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 18, 2012, 02:57:56 PM

Quote from: 50tbrd88;398524

I vote for the Foose wheels, but I'm definately not a fan of black wheels.

I like these black wheels because of the silver groove.

Quote from: 87thunderbirdBlackJack;398540

I think if you did the center of the grill and black headlight buckets it would make it look real mean with the trim around the windows blacked out and such.

I do plan on all the trim, mirrors, grill center being a satin black. That's why I was looking at the Falken wheels. I think they would tie into the rest of the car nicely.

Better than the idea of a friend who's a manager at the O'rilley part store..........Copper centers and polished lips on the wheels that I already have with the Bird emblems and some interior accent pieces in the copper as well.
:crazy: :screwy: :shakehead

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: FirstBird on September 18, 2012, 06:36:39 PM

The copper idea Imo would look good on a black car, or silver one. i vote for the Foose wheels too, the sparkle in the paint should match the wheels well.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Crazy88 on September 18, 2012, 06:50:23 PM

Quote from: 1BadBird;398544

Better than the idea of a friend who's a manager at the O'rilley part store..........Copper centers and polished lips on the wheels that I already have with the Bird emblems and some interior accent pieces in the copper as well.
:crazy: :screwy: :shakehead

You might respond with, "Yeah, sounds great! I can't wait to see what that looks like when you do that to your 'Bird"... ;)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 18, 2012, 08:15:22 PM

Actually he has a Acura TL. But I am waiting for him to do his car. My wife said EEEWWWWWWW!!! LOL

Here's a couple of pics of the bird waiting for paint. I'll be spraying it tomorrow.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 18, 2012, 08:16:55 PM

And 2 more :hick:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 18, 2012, 08:18:32 PM

Quote from: FirstBird;398553

the sparkle in the paint should match the wheels well.

That's what the wife says too.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on September 18, 2012, 09:48:33 PM

I think these would look great on your car, but the are one of my favorite wheels :D.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 07:52:33 AM

Lou....... the wife says to stop smokin that pipe....... LOL

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 07:56:02 AM

Quote from: 87thunderbirdBlackJack;398542

(http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/cll-7275401545_w.jpg)

Center Line Wheels 7277804545 - Center Line Wheels Competition Series Split Spoke on summit 17x8

Sorry Blackjack, I missed this reply. I like these wheels.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 06:26:02 PM

The body is painted finally here's some pics. :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 06:27:39 PM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 06:30:27 PM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on September 19, 2012, 06:58:57 PM

Wow.....speechless!!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on September 19, 2012, 07:02:06 PM

Very nice bud!

I think those centerlines would look real nice on that car

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 08:30:00 PM

Quote from: MY83T;398640

Wow.....speechless!!

Thanks. :cheers:

Quote from: 87thunderbirdBlackJack;398641

Very nice bud!

I think those centerlines would look real nice on that car

The wife says NO. She said she'll pay for the Fooses.......... wonder when that'll happen.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on September 20, 2012, 02:07:20 PM

Droooool. Looks great! Can't wait to see it all back together sitting on those Foose wheels!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 20, 2012, 02:54:01 PM

Quote from: 50tbrd88;398714

Droooool. Looks great! Can't wait to see it all back together sitting on those Foose wheels!

:rollin: Ya might wanna get a towel 50tbrd88 :D. Thanks though. I'm wet-sanding the doors today and I'll buff everything in a couple more weeks or so. The Fooses will have to wait till it's closer to being on the road and when finances allow.

John

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: FirstBird on September 20, 2012, 05:38:39 PM

WoW, your car is going to be a neck breaker when it's all done.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 20, 2012, 05:45:48 PM

Quote from: FirstBird;398726

WoW, your car is going to be a neck breaker when it's all done.

Thanks FirstBird.

Here's a couple teaser pics of the one door I got wet-sanded today.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bodyman on September 22, 2012, 12:03:12 AM

Have not checked in here in a while, I must say, looks like some great work and a lot of effort. Always like the results of painting them apart.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 22, 2012, 08:03:12 AM

Quote from: bodyman;398818

Have not checked in here in a while, I must say, looks like some great work and a lot of effort. Always like the results of painting them apart.

Ya it's been awhile since I've seen you around. How's you project coming along??

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bodyman on September 22, 2012, 10:37:45 AM

Quote

Ya it's been awhile since I've seen you around. How's you project coming along??

I haven't made any real progress in a few months. Looks like it may be a couple more before I can get back to it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on September 24, 2012, 09:35:52 AM

That's ok, least it's not going anywhere.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 11, 2012, 09:23:33 AM

It's been a couple weeks since I've posted an update so here are a few pics of what I've got done. It's not a lot though.

More to follow :hick: The body is all wet sanded, just didn't get pics yet.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 11, 2012, 09:26:12 AM

Got a little curious as to what it'll look like all nice and buffed up :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: lakenheath24 on October 11, 2012, 10:00:48 AM

Lovin the resto so far! Awesome job.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 11, 2012, 01:03:47 PM

Quote from: lakenheath24;400265

Lovin the resto so far! Awesome job.

Thanks :)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on October 11, 2012, 04:42:06 PM

Looking good :).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Thunderbird88 on October 11, 2012, 04:53:15 PM

Oh my god oh my god oh my god YOU'RE RUINING THE PAINT!

Just kidding! :D
Great work! Love that color!

Is it me who's abit weird but I actually enjoyed wetsanding my car after it was painted. Not that it was extremely fun but I've done a lot worse :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 11, 2012, 05:01:48 PM

Quote from: thunderjet302;400277

Looking good :).

Thanks Lou :D We need to get together some time.

Quote from: Thunderbird88;400279

Oh my god oh my god oh my god YOU'RE RUINING THE PAINT!

:rollin:

Quote from: Thunderbird88;400279

Just kidding! :D
Great work! Love that color!

Is it me who's a bit weird but I actually enjoyed wet sanding my car after it was painted. Not that it was extremely fun but I've done a lot worse :D

Thanks 88 :D You're not the only weird on here, I've enjoyed my ALONE time with my car :evilgrin: with all the hand sanding. Sometimes it feels like I've sanded all my finger prints off :hick:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on October 11, 2012, 09:28:50 PM

Quote from: 1BadBird;400280

Thanks Lou :D We need to get together some time.

I'll have to head out their in the spring when it's done. I'm putting the T-bird away in a few weeks but I'll have to get out by you with it. You haven't seen it since the aluminum head swap and trans upgrade. Plus maybe your T-bird will be moving under it's own power :).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 11, 2012, 10:26:49 PM

Uhhh....... unless I find the goose that lays the golden eggs, It will probably run but not road-legal.

Here's a pic of the body all wiped down after it's 2000/2500/3000 grit massages :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on October 11, 2012, 10:30:41 PM

Drooool........can you do mine next?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on October 12, 2012, 12:21:30 AM

Did you add any extra metal flake to the paint? I've noticed a lot of the factory Ford paint lately tends to have a large amount of metal flake in it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 12, 2012, 09:40:01 AM

Quote from: beast50;398064

:bowdown:

Can you do my car next??

Quote from: MY83T;400293

Drooool........can you do mine next?

LOL, I'd love to do both cars as I really want to get into restorations rather than insurance work. Beast50 did ask first though.... Yours would present a bit of a challenge in getting it here.

Quote from: thunderjet302;400316

Did you add any extra metal flake to the paint? I've noticed a lot of the factory Ford paint lately tends to have a large amount of metal flake in it.

Yes Lou, I added a PPG Micro Sequin Flakes DX86 to the Blue. You are partially correct in that some of the Ford paint looks like it has larger flakes. Some of it is a course aluminum flake and some is a Mica. The Kona Blue has 2 toners to give it the "Metallic" look, a powder mica and a blue pearl. Loved the color, just not enough twinkle.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on October 12, 2012, 04:41:16 PM

That really is a great blue. Keep the pics coming!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 14, 2012, 11:28:29 AM

Quote from: 50tbrd88;400355

That really is a great blue. Keep the pics coming!

Thanks I will

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 25, 2012, 06:43:45 PM

Ok, today I got the body buffed out, rolled it outside and snapped these pics. Enjoy peoples :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 25, 2012, 06:45:11 PM

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 25, 2012, 06:46:44 PM

I have both doors done as well. Tomorrow I'll be doing the header panel and fenders. :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: FirstBird on October 25, 2012, 07:05:18 PM

Wow!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Fordracer08 on October 25, 2012, 08:11:11 PM

Nice!!!! I like the metallic in it. You don't see a lot of heavy metallic paint jobs anymore.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 25, 2012, 08:19:56 PM

Quote from: FirstBird;401274

Wow!

Quote from: Fordracer08;401280

Nice!!!! I like the metallic in it. You don't see a lot of heavy metallic paint jobs anymore.

Thanks guys.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Fordracer08 on October 25, 2012, 09:16:34 PM

I wish I had the skill and patience to do paint and body work that nice. I can handle anything mechanical but when it comes time to paint my T-Bird I will be getting someone experienced to handle it.

How does the quarter window outside trim come off of these cars?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 25, 2012, 10:16:27 PM

Quote from: Fordracer08;401289

How does the quarter window outside trim come off of these cars?

The B-pillar trim needs to be removed then the quarter trim is held on by clips. Be careful with them.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on October 26, 2012, 12:42:20 AM

Looks good! The metal flake really pops!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bryan163 on October 26, 2012, 01:07:53 AM

Nice paint! how long do you think you have left before you get it on the road?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 26, 2012, 07:52:09 AM

Quote from: 1Bad88tbird;401316

Looks good! The metal flake really pops!

Quote from: bryan163;401318

Nice paint! how long do you think you have left before you get it on the road?

Thanks guys, My goal is to have it up n running by next fall. Just in time to be put away for winter. I want to have any bugs worked out by the 2014 Power Tour. :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 26, 2012, 10:19:19 AM

I'm thinking I like these wheels. What do you all think?? 17X9s

(http://www.tirerack.com/images/wheels/americanracingmuscle/swap/arm_razor_c_ci3_l.jpg)

(http://www.tirerack.com/images/trans.gif)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 83TB on October 28, 2012, 11:27:50 PM

I like those wheels, look good

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 50tbrd88 on October 29, 2012, 12:23:43 PM

I like the wheels! American Racing??

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 29, 2012, 01:23:06 PM

Yep they're A/Rs. Of course the wife don't particularly like them..........

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on October 29, 2012, 06:57:56 PM

Looking great. The flake really pops outside. I like it :).

Perhaps she'd like these wheels better: (http://www.carid.com/images/american-racing/wheels/ar-vn471-salt-flat-special-polished.jpg)

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 29, 2012, 10:29:29 PM

Thanks Lou. I'll show 'em to her. I've got the doors hung and all gaps set. I hung the fenders on just for the pics and a place to keep them. Here's a few pics.

Sorry bout the blurry pic

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: edgar_g1 on October 29, 2012, 11:10:45 PM

Wish I could do that to my car. Can't wait to see it completed!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: flylear45 on October 30, 2012, 09:42:22 AM

Looks great so far! I think the color is good for it, too. Good work.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 30, 2012, 10:15:38 AM

Quote from: edgar_g1;401622

Wish I could do that to my car. Can't wait to see it completed!

I'm trying not to get excited. Still a lot left to do.......

Quote from: flylear45;401638

Looks great so far! I think the color is good for it, too. Good work.

Thanks flylear45.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on October 30, 2012, 09:11:40 PM

You know looking at your car again I can see that you added more flake than the factory does on stock Mustangs. I like it even more than the color on Mustangs. I think you made a great choice on color :).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on October 30, 2012, 10:04:00 PM

Thank you very much Lou. The "flake" looks a whole lot bigger when out in the sun than it does inside.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bryan163 on November 02, 2012, 12:03:54 AM

Quote from: thunderjet302;401591

Looking great. The flake really pops outside. I like it :).

Perhaps she'd like these wheels better: (http://www.carid.com/images/american-racing/wheels/ar-vn471-salt-flat-special-polished.jpg)

I like these a lot.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Thunderbird88 on November 02, 2012, 08:57:30 AM

Get some American Racing Aero wheels. I have them on my T-bird and in my opinion they're a perfect fit on the car :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Crazy88 on November 02, 2012, 09:15:26 AM

Kinda reminds me of a 60's gasser.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 02, 2012, 01:20:27 PM

Ya they do don't they Crazy88.

Title: She's Finally Home
Post by: 1BadBird on November 08, 2012, 09:26:39 PM

Thought I'd post a couple of pics of the Bird at home.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Fordracer08 on November 09, 2012, 11:22:20 AM

Time to put the Bird back together?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on November 09, 2012, 11:49:57 AM

Is that another Bird I see?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 83TB on November 09, 2012, 12:04:25 PM

Very cool, time to get to work putting back together I guess?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 09, 2012, 10:25:20 PM

Quote from: Fordracer08;402244

Time to put the Bird back together?

Ya, you know.....wiring, running new fuel & brake lines stuff like that. :D

Quote from: 1Bad88tbird;402246

Is that another Bird I see?

Na, it's a 93' Tempo w/60K miles. It was my wife's grandfathers car that we inherited when he passed.

Quote from: 83TB;402248

Very cool, time to get to work putting back together I guess?

You got it :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: thunderjet302 on November 09, 2012, 10:59:00 PM

Nice to see it back home :).

Did you get the wiring for the 4.6 figured out yet? It's going to be pretty cool when it's able to move under it's own power :).

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on November 09, 2012, 11:29:11 PM

It feels odd to see it sitting at home and not to look at it at work.
No, not yet :( still have to get the engine/dash harnesses and the ECU as well.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Fordracer08 on November 11, 2012, 01:29:24 PM

This is an exciting time for your project as it starts to go back together. It will be one nice ride.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on January 28, 2013, 09:50:04 AM

Any updates?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on February 02, 2013, 10:50:25 PM

No updates sorry :(

I've been busy with work and some things going on with the house. Good things though ;) Although I have acquired some parts, sucks waiting for a clutch fork to show up!! :evilgrin: I've also been trying to get my shop ready for a special project coming soon ;)
I've been trying to get the 3.0 to 3.5 swap into the Stratus done at work as well. :toilet:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: MY83T on February 02, 2013, 11:22:56 PM

:bowdow
I've also been trying to get my shop ready for a special project coming soon ;)
[/QUOTE]

Special eh? :bowdown:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on February 02, 2013, 11:26:53 PM

You know it :evilgrin:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 15, 2013, 07:31:10 PM

Since I now have the majority of the parts to finish the bird. Still need some parts but i'll find out what they are when I need them.
So now let the fun begin:evilgrin:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bodyman on July 16, 2013, 12:07:50 AM

Looking forward to seeing it take shape. Will be watching for the updates.

Still planning on some autox with it when you are done? I have been looking into this as well, and also have been looking at the hooked on driving site here lately, would like to get mine to the Road America at Elkhart lake, or the Autobahn country club by Joliet someday.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on July 16, 2013, 08:05:41 AM

Quote from: bodyman;418719

Looking forward to seeing it take shape. Will be watching for the updates. Thanks, Of course there'll be pics :)

Still planning on some autox with it when you are done? I have been looking into this as well, and also have been looking at the hooked on driving site here lately, would like to get mine to the Road America at Elkhart lake, or the Autobahn country club by Joliet someday.

Yes I still plan on autoxing it. I too want to run the Autoban as well as the Sand Hills race & there is a track in Michigan. What's this "hooked on driving" site??

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bodyman on July 16, 2013, 09:51:22 AM

http://www.hookedondriving.com Driving school/club with events at road course tracks. Looks fairly reasonable at about $325 per event.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: lakenheath24 on July 16, 2013, 03:44:56 PM

Cant wait to see the finished project. I am due back in the states soon and cant wait to finish mine up. I am taking it to france with me so will be able to take her on some historic tracks.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 22, 2013, 04:35:22 PM

Sorry guys for such a delay in updates, I have little under 2 wks off due to Ford N Chrysler's plant shut down. So I do plan on working on the bird :D My plans are to get the sn-95 dash installed and get the car back up on the blocked up stands so I can work on the front and rear suspension. I have to change out the FLC arms as they are too short to use with the 00' GT k-member and rack unit, bummer :(
I'll be listing them and some other parts in the appropriate area later on.

On another note, the wife was offered the position there in Abilene and has accepted it. I'll post more on that topic in the other thread I started. Now back to work on the Bird, :D

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 22, 2013, 04:40:00 PM

Quote from: bodyman;418741

www.hookedondriving.com (http://"http://www.hookedondriving.com") Driving school/club with events at road course tracks. Looks fairly reasonable at about $325 per event.

I'll definitely check that site out! Thanks

Quote from: lakenheath24;418750

Cant wait to see the finished project. I am due back in the states soon and cant wait to finish mine up. I am taking it to France with me so will be able to take her on some historic tracks.

Thanks, I can't either! Enjoy it over there in France, that should be tons-o-fun!!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: STANG8U on December 22, 2013, 05:09:14 PM

Sweet can't wait to see the progress

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on December 24, 2013, 10:52:27 AM

Well this sucks :( I went to the shop where I got the dash and other parts from and the owner sent the the hull of the stang to the crusher. I hadn;t removed the center console and windshield braces yet. I guess that i'll be making a trip to a P-N-P to get them. If it warms up a little though.
Oh well, there's ton more that I can do. :D

Title: Long over-due Update. Sorry no pics yet
Post by: 1BadBird on April 06, 2014, 06:17:02 AM

I was able to get a little work done on my Bird. FINALLY!
I got the hydro-boost unit temporarily mounted, (yes it's coming back off for cleaning and paint :D ) the ABS pump mounted and most of the brake lines ran. I still need to "massage" them slightly to fit better. I also started to lay out the body wiring harness from the donor-stang. Next I'll be taking the SN-95 dash apart so I can get it installed. I'll get pics up when I get further along with the wiring and brake lines.
I'll be working on it again on my next days-off.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: vinnietbird on April 06, 2014, 11:07:56 AM

Every twist of the screwdriver and wrench is still one step closer to a finished car. My obstacles keep slowing me down, but the work WILL get done.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 09, 2014, 11:52:26 PM

Quote from: vinnietbird;431886

Every twist of the screwdriver and wrench is still one step closer to a finished car. My obstacles keep slowing me down, but the work WILL get done.

That is very true Mr Vinnie :D

Which leads me to the next couple of pics. Few more pieces temporarily installed taken from the donor car. I still need to re-polish them before final installation. I wasn't to sure about using the natural finish trim pieces over the blacked out versions, but with the amount of "Sparkle" in the paint, I think I'm going the right direction.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 10, 2014, 12:01:30 AM

And a couple of messy engine bay pics. Getting things laid out and................

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: vinnietbird on May 10, 2014, 07:56:25 AM

After the tasks I have lined out for the Sport, I have to tackle the engine bay. Dang I dread that. Yours is coming along great. Looks really nice. Get out there and get busy !!!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Fordracer08 on May 10, 2014, 07:50:59 PM

I think the polished trim looks good and is the way to go. Is the trim on the four eye Birds stainless?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 10, 2014, 10:34:46 PM

Quote from: vinnietbird;433548

After the tasks I have lined out for the Sport, I have to tackle the engine bay. Dang I dread that. Yours is coming along great. Looks really nice. Get out there and get busy !!!

Yes Sir!! :bowdown:

Quote from: Fordracer08;433574

I think the polished trim looks good and is the way to go. Is the trim on the four eye Birds stainless?

I believe it's anodized aluminum.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 28, 2014, 10:00:26 AM

I trial fitted the cowl hood I traded custompunk on the NOS 87' - 88' hinges I picked up from jandmustangs

Don't mind the mess in the background :hick:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Fordracer08 on May 28, 2014, 11:01:48 AM

Are the 87-88 hinges a direct swap onto the four eyed Birds?

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 28, 2014, 04:24:55 PM

Yep, I just bolted them straight on.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Fordracer08 on May 28, 2014, 09:11:43 PM

Interesting! I will have to remember that for when I finally paint my car. A good way to get rid of that prop rod.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 08, 2014, 11:43:38 PM

I did some tinkering yesterday and today. I couldn't get a pic of the rods I made for the key door opener while it's installed. I'll remove one and get a pic of it. But they work easy and the door pops open slightly. I still have to install the door glass but I'm getting closer. I also worked on the engine, I changed the rear main seal that was starting to seep, I installed the pilot bearing and then installed the Fidonza flywheel and 11" clutch kit. I need to get a couple of pics of the flywheel/clutch setup.

using my cell to post pics REALLY sucks :-( also, I was toying with this idea.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: Clayton on June 09, 2014, 02:04:44 AM

Looks good there buddy. Keep the progress coming! And if you decide you dont want that hood ill glaaaaadly take it off your hands lol

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 09, 2014, 08:05:05 PM

LOL, ya ok........... I'll start the grafting someday.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 11, 2014, 07:48:42 PM

Not much but here's a couple of pics with the trim and key in the door. Another pic from the side of the hood.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: gumby on June 11, 2014, 09:10:34 PM

Just a bit of experience talking....build a very strong routine of shutting off the car and removing the key from the ignition with your lock mod. Or get a mag key box and hide a spare under the car someplace.
I shaved the handles on my 89 ranger and didn't want poppers, so I did the same as you have here.
One night at the dragstrip(40 miles from home) it started to rain as I was loading up. Hopped in the truck, moved to the other side of the lane nearer my pile of stuff, rolled up the windows and hopped out. The door closed itself, with the truck running. It sat and idled while I begged a ride back home for the spare key...NOT funny.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on June 12, 2014, 04:40:07 AM

Ok.......I'll stop.......chuckling...... Thanks for the advice, I learned that many moons ago when I was driving a brand new semi up in Canada. I left it running, jumped out to throw away some trash and KNEW I hadn't locked the door. When I tried to open it, it was locked. Lucky for me there was a mobile locksmith at the truckstop and he opened it for me. Found out that if you close a door too hard on Freightshakers, that most of the time, they'll lock themselves :(
Ever since then, I've kept a spare key in my wallet. Knowing this has saved my a** several times since. :hick:

Title: Finally another tiny update
Post by: 1BadBird on March 16, 2018, 08:54:38 PM

I have the car up on stands once again and have been tinkering. I dropped the IRS back out and completely tore it apart. I lengthened the front mounting points and relocated the rear mounting brackets so it goes in & out easily. I also removed the mounting point bushings so I can install urethane bushings. I've also ordered new urethane upper & lower control arm bushings. I'm also cleaning up the casting lines on the control arms.
I watched a video by Full Tilt Boogie Racing on replacing those bushings and didn't realize just how bound up the IRS is with the stock rubber bushings are. For some reason, I'm having issues uploading pictures right now. I'll try again later to post them.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: vinnietbird on March 17, 2018, 09:45:41 AM

I'd love to have an IRS, but that is a job I'm not willing to take on.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on March 17, 2018, 06:55:45 PM

Aweeee Vinnie you know you wanna do it.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: vinnietbird on March 18, 2018, 09:41:48 AM

I do.....but I'm not. LOL.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on March 18, 2018, 03:51:06 PM

Well Vinnie, if we move like we're planning to in a yr &1/2 (wife's job) I'd be somewhat closer to help do the swap LOL

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on March 21, 2018, 12:32:26 PM

Sorry for the extra large pic. I took some 3/4" plate and had some spacers made and I also had some slightly smaller diameter tube cut to 3/4" length. I drilled some holes on each side of the cut line on each side of the cradle. I then welded those small tubes to the spacer on the inside, then slid the spacer with the smaller tubes into each side and tacked them in place. i reinstalled the cradle and readjusted the rear mounting brackets accordingly. I tacked the front pieces more so when i removed the cradle they wouldn't move. I had beveled were I needed so I could get some good deep welds and welded them in entirely. I also welded in a couple pieces of heavy sheet metal on the bottom.

Now i need to prep the cradle for some new paint :hick:

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: vinnietbird on March 22, 2018, 06:36:46 AM

Man, that's awesome work. NICE!!! As far as mine goes, I think I'll keep the rear the way it is. LOL. It works great.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on March 23, 2018, 11:23:14 PM

Thanks Vinnie. The control arm bushings I ordered should arrive tomorrow. It's taking a little longer cause Monday I hurt my back delivering a refrigerator. Go figure. Anyway, while taking a lot of breaks, I did manage to get the calipers and brackets repainted. I stripped off the blue and repainted them a different color. I'll post pics when I can figure why I can't post anything from my tablet. I'm still working on the control arms, cleaning up the casting flash.
I've also been considering that since I have the whole IRS apart, now would be a good time to swap in the 4:30 gears that I've had.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: vinnietbird on March 24, 2018, 11:38:52 PM

4.30's? Holy . LOL. That's a bunch of gear. LOL.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: bodyman on March 25, 2018, 07:37:03 PM

I agree with Vinnie, only I said that’s a lot of gear, out loud. LOL.

Mod motors do like rpm, those will get it there. I had 4.56 gears in a 68 mustang for about two weeks once upon a time. They were great fun but after the first trip more than 30 miles they got replaced. It was like driving around in low 2, so with overdrive I would think it will be like driving with a 3 speed trans with about a 3.00 rear gear, which really isn’t that bad. Did you plug the numbers into a gear ratio calculator to see what rpm’s would be at different speeds? I think I remember reading that this was going to be an auto x car, but it’s going to be so nice your going to want to road tour with it, at least I would.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on March 25, 2018, 09:05:19 PM

Quote from: vinnietbird;465106

4.30's? Holy . LOL. That's a bunch of gear. LOL.

Quote from: bodyman;465114

I agree with Vinnie, only I said that’s a lot of gear, out loud. LOL.

Mod motors do like rpm, those will get it there. I had 4.56 gears in a 68 mustang for about two weeks once upon a time. They were great fun but after the first trip more than 30 miles they got replaced. It was like driving around in low 2, so with overdrive I would think it will be like driving with a 3 speed trans with about a 3.00 rear gear, which really isn’t that bad. Did you plug the numbers into a gear ratio calculator to see what rpm’s would be at different speeds? I think I remember reading that this was going to be an auto x car, but it’s going to be so nice your going to want to road tour with it, at least I would.

LOL, ya true, that’s a lot of gear. I do plan on some road course and/or a little x-cross. I do also want to run the whole Route 66 cruise as well as the Hot Power Tour some year before they stop doing that. Yes I have a speed calculator and I input the T-45 gear ratios and it came out to 75.04 mph @ 2600 rpm. I will also be installing a rear diff cooler and with the IIRC butterflies removed, the engine will probably love ‘em.

Title: Finally some pics
Post by: 1BadBird on March 26, 2018, 08:48:39 PM

Here's a couple pics of the freshly repainted calipers.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 09, 2018, 11:57:41 PM

Not much progress but at least the IRS cradle is ready.
I'm drilling and tapping all the control arms for grease fittings. Once that is done, I'll install the new bushings and reinstall them.
Since I was released back to unrestricted work, I've been working 70+ hrs a week.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: vinnietbird on May 10, 2018, 08:01:57 AM

Nice !!!! I say again, I'd love to do the IRS swap, but, keeping what I have. I need a budget with actual funds. Working with zero dollars makes it tough.

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: jcassity on May 10, 2018, 09:39:01 AM

incredible build!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! you really must have a budget for sure!

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 10, 2018, 09:54:32 AM

[/QUOTE]I need a budget with actual funds. Working with zero dollars makes it tough.[/QUOTE]

I completely hear you on the zero budget. The Mrs is pretty strick about the usage of funds so I've had to be creative, trade work for parts, barter, sell parts I didn't need, you know, the usual suspects lol

Title: T-Bird Resto/Mod UPDATE 3-16-18
Post by: 1BadBird on May 17, 2018, 10:44:14 PM

Well now the upper control arms are ready to be installed.

Fox T-Bird/Cougar Forums

Technical => Body/Appearance/Interior => Topic started by: 1BadBird on November 28, 2011, 08:03:02 AM