Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 31, 2012, 08:25:50 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 31, 2012, 08:25:50 PM
Friend of mine started this car years ago, and just got burned out. He gave me the car with some extra parts, I do have the doors, hood, and trunck lid.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Shannun on August 31, 2012, 08:29:59 PM
Post by: Shannun on August 31, 2012, 08:29:59 PM
looks like shes gonna be real pretty when shes back together :) welcome to the forum
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 88turbo on August 31, 2012, 08:40:02 PM
Post by: 88turbo on August 31, 2012, 08:40:02 PM
welcome! very nice looking start you have there!!
Title: New member 83 ThunderBird
Post by: 83TB on August 31, 2012, 08:42:56 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 31, 2012, 08:42:56 PM
Hi, I am Jerry from Pensacola, Fl. I just was given a 83 thunderbird from a friend that got burned out on the project. The car does not have a motor or tranny right now, looking to do a 5.0 mustang drive train with A/C install. The car has molded in ground effects and grill insert and french in antenna. The car does have 9in rear end with rear disc brakes. Also came with the car are cyberdyne digital gauge, MSD 6AL box with blaster coil, march pulley kit.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MY83T on August 31, 2012, 09:01:06 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 31, 2012, 09:01:06 PM
You have the fairly rare Ford Motorsport Grill, and would guess you have the complete aero kit which in opinion is the nicest one they made. (from Ford). Looks like a very nice project! Keep us updated on your progress.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MrG89 on August 31, 2012, 10:03:14 PM
Post by: MrG89 on August 31, 2012, 10:03:14 PM
Nice start friend.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 31, 2012, 10:13:40 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 31, 2012, 10:13:40 PM
thank you for the welcome!! O yes I will get updated and ask for your advice and opinions I am sure.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on September 02, 2012, 06:00:40 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on September 02, 2012, 06:00:40 PM
Nice car!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:01:15 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:01:15 PM
Ok got some more parts to the car today!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:12:28 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:12:28 PM
Got some other parts to car today!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:15:25 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:15:25 PM
Shaved handles and locks, O boy!!
[ATTACH]30253[/ATTACH
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Chuck W on September 07, 2012, 02:23:05 PM
Post by: Chuck W on September 07, 2012, 02:23:05 PM
4-eyes are the ones to have. Anyone who says otherwise is just sad because they don't have one themselves.
Welcome to the site.
Welcome to the site.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:44:00 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 07, 2012, 02:44:00 PM
I loved my 86 front clip on put on my 79 mustang, love the 4-eyes look, Chuck all those tubro hood scoops in the side of car, that looks bad ass!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 19, 2012, 08:19:07 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 19, 2012, 08:19:07 PM
I got the doors on Today!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MY83T on September 19, 2012, 08:31:59 PM
Post by: MY83T on September 19, 2012, 08:31:59 PM
WTG! Keep at it!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 09:32:44 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on September 19, 2012, 09:32:44 PM
Lookin good. I hope ur losing those wagon wheels.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 19, 2012, 11:08:50 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 19, 2012, 11:08:50 PM
Quote from: 1BadBird;398664
Lookin good. I hope ur losing those wagon wheels.
Man what is wrong with the wagon wheels, have them hydrographic dipped in carbon fiber look and I will be Rollin!!!
LOL
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 25, 2012, 08:49:14 AM
Post by: 83TB on September 25, 2012, 08:49:14 AM
Little more work on the car over weekend!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 30, 2012, 08:35:55 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 30, 2012, 08:35:55 PM
I got the booster and MC painted and put on. I got the other steering column with tilt put on. Found out buddy already had lowering springs on, so getting the offset bushing ordered so I can put the 15:1 rack in place and hook to new column. Cleaned and painted the sway bar clamps and ordering some new bushing for that also with the end links. I will take some more pics soon.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MY83T on September 30, 2012, 08:41:28 PM
Post by: MY83T on September 30, 2012, 08:41:28 PM
looking good! :drink:
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 88turbo on September 30, 2012, 09:29:05 PM
Post by: 88turbo on September 30, 2012, 09:29:05 PM
keep it up buddy!!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Sinista Chicken on September 30, 2012, 10:13:56 PM
Post by: Sinista Chicken on September 30, 2012, 10:13:56 PM
Welcome to the forums! That looks like a very nice start for a project
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 01, 2012, 05:11:02 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 01, 2012, 05:11:02 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Haystack on October 02, 2012, 12:59:35 AM
Post by: Haystack on October 02, 2012, 12:59:35 AM
Looks nice.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2012, 08:30:18 AM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2012, 08:30:18 AM
Thanks going to have to fix my picture before posting, my iphone does that for some reason.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 03:27:34 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 03:27:34 PM
Got to look good when you stop!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on October 03, 2012, 05:10:31 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on October 03, 2012, 05:10:31 PM
Let me guess...........Lincoln LSC front brakes?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 06:00:13 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 06:00:13 PM
I don't know, I took the calipers off the 84TB parts car and the rotors were already on the car. Do they look like Lincolns?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on October 03, 2012, 06:29:07 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on October 03, 2012, 06:29:07 PM
I was going by the bearing hub sticking out as far as it does, and that it's one piece. I don't know, just guessing. :)
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 07:02:01 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 07:02:01 PM
You think could be issue with wheels selecting?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 10:09:27 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2012, 10:09:27 PM
Must be, he said that the rear end from a Lincoln.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: FirstBird on October 03, 2012, 11:08:39 PM
Post by: FirstBird on October 03, 2012, 11:08:39 PM
I think you wont be able to use the wheel caps or something along those lines.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 04, 2012, 09:00:26 AM
Post by: 83TB on October 04, 2012, 09:00:26 AM
Dang so I should get some different rotors, what car should I get some from?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 04, 2012, 01:05:48 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 04, 2012, 01:05:48 PM
My buddy who had car, says ranger rotors are on there, idk
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on October 04, 2012, 01:24:06 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on October 04, 2012, 01:24:06 PM
Since they are Ranger rotors, you'll be fine. I forgot about those :mullet:. With the Lincoln rotors, there is the issue of the wheel centers not fitting. Sorry, deidn't mean to get you worried there.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 04, 2012, 02:07:10 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 04, 2012, 02:07:10 PM
ok good, now I have to worry with nine inch under the it, should I measure from outside of rear rotors to get correct width.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on October 04, 2012, 04:26:31 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on October 04, 2012, 04:26:31 PM
You could do that, then just add the measurement from the wheel mounting surface to the outside rotor surface twice for your width. Good luck and have fun :D
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 06, 2012, 01:07:44 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 06, 2012, 01:07:44 PM
Rear end looks to be about 631/4. I am measuring from outside of rotors to outsid rotors and then adding the space in to the mounting surface.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 06, 2012, 01:16:32 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 06, 2012, 01:16:32 PM
I ran the brake lines over from the block to the passenger side, I used the line from the parts car, I hope I did ok on my double flaring, first time doing that. I got new hoses also and clips to hold them to bracket.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2012, 02:50:48 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2012, 02:50:48 PM
I mounted rack and the vacuum tee!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 09, 2012, 04:04:36 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 09, 2012, 04:04:36 PM
Started the process of tucking wires, while waiting on some funds to get some other parts. I plan on using some wire loom, I just laid it out today to get idea where it will run and make sure nothing will be in the way.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 10, 2012, 01:52:45 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 10, 2012, 01:52:45 PM
New outter tie rod ends!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Thunderbirdz on October 10, 2012, 05:41:36 PM
Post by: Thunderbirdz on October 10, 2012, 05:41:36 PM
Nice project. Wish I was that handy.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 10, 2012, 08:51:55 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 10, 2012, 08:51:55 PM
Thanks, you bird looks good!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 13, 2012, 07:43:48 AM
Post by: 83TB on October 13, 2012, 07:43:48 AM
I put in a the filler neck to the gas tank from the parts car on Thursday. The one that was on the car was shot out!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 17, 2012, 11:13:34 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 17, 2012, 11:13:34 PM
Took the pre-bent line off parts car for the rear brakes, clean out the line and re-installed on my car. Fit good!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Sean on October 19, 2012, 03:40:58 AM
Post by: Sean on October 19, 2012, 03:40:58 AM
Cars looking good great job! wondering what Lincoln the rear end came out of and if it will bolt right up on an stock 83?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 20, 2012, 10:35:37 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 20, 2012, 10:35:37 PM
I am still trying to cross some info on the rear end, rear brake calipers, but no they welded brackets to make it fit from what I can see.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 24, 2012, 10:51:39 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 24, 2012, 10:51:39 PM
Mounted mad box and sway bar with new bushings today
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MY83T on October 24, 2012, 10:52:59 PM
Post by: MY83T on October 24, 2012, 10:52:59 PM
looking great, progress every day! Awesome!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 25, 2012, 12:17:56 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 25, 2012, 12:17:56 PM
Quote from: Sean;400773
Cars looking good great job! wondering what Lincoln the rear end came out of and if it will bolt right up on an stock 83?
I went to Napa and looks like rearend and brake calibers are out of a 1976 thunderbird.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 25, 2012, 03:27:05 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 25, 2012, 03:27:05 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 28, 2012, 04:50:12 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 28, 2012, 04:50:12 PM
Black out fender wells and painted rear sway bar
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on October 28, 2012, 04:54:11 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on October 28, 2012, 04:54:11 PM
Looking good there 83TB :cheers::drink:
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 29, 2012, 04:14:01 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 29, 2012, 04:14:01 PM
Found at salvage yard today, got a power mirror too for pass side.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Trinom on October 29, 2012, 04:49:39 PM
Post by: Trinom on October 29, 2012, 04:49:39 PM
You might help me, please look at the last page of the "Yunkyard finds 2012" thread. Thanks
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 29, 2012, 09:07:17 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 29, 2012, 09:07:17 PM
I pm you trinom
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 19, 2012, 07:37:51 AM
Post by: 83TB on November 19, 2012, 07:37:51 AM
Started working on welding up hole at the bottom of rear window.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ratio411 on December 03, 2012, 10:09:55 AM
Post by: ratio411 on December 03, 2012, 10:09:55 AM
Nice bird.
Hello from P'cola... ;)
Looks to me like someone redrilled the axles/rotors with the standard car bolt pattern.
Most large FoMoCo cars in the 60s-70s, like Lincolns and T-Birds had a large, non-standard bolt pattern.
They did a good job. I can't tell, but they might have even put 'new' axles in it with the correct bolt pattern.
One thing though, those brakes are old tech, somewhat complex, and prices on parts are going up the older they get.
You could possibly swap on some late model Crown Vic/Exploder rear discs, depending on which ends are on the axle tubes.
Small bearing 9"/big bearing 8" ends can use the Vic rear discs, while 'New' big bearing 9" (or sometimes called Torino bearings), use the Exploder rear discs.
The nice thing about the newer discs, besides cheap and plentiful, is that the E-brake setup is a drum setup, and drum brake E-brake cables are an easy swap.
Edit
After another look, they redrilled the axles. You can see the old stud holes under the rotor.
Another thing to note, it's possible that the rear is a 9 3/8" Ford rear.
Those oversize cars with large bolt pattern wheels usually had the 9 3/8".
It is almost identical to a 9", and you can even directly convert the housing over to all 9" parts. I am not sure what does and does not interchange (regarding the diff and gear set) if you try to hybrid them, but a complete parts swap is supposed to be direct.
Hello from P'cola... ;)
Looks to me like someone redrilled the axles/rotors with the standard car bolt pattern.
Most large FoMoCo cars in the 60s-70s, like Lincolns and T-Birds had a large, non-standard bolt pattern.
They did a good job. I can't tell, but they might have even put 'new' axles in it with the correct bolt pattern.
One thing though, those brakes are old tech, somewhat complex, and prices on parts are going up the older they get.
You could possibly swap on some late model Crown Vic/Exploder rear discs, depending on which ends are on the axle tubes.
Small bearing 9"/big bearing 8" ends can use the Vic rear discs, while 'New' big bearing 9" (or sometimes called Torino bearings), use the Exploder rear discs.
The nice thing about the newer discs, besides cheap and plentiful, is that the E-brake setup is a drum setup, and drum brake E-brake cables are an easy swap.
Edit
After another look, they redrilled the axles. You can see the old stud holes under the rotor.
Another thing to note, it's possible that the rear is a 9 3/8" Ford rear.
Those oversize cars with large bolt pattern wheels usually had the 9 3/8".
It is almost identical to a 9", and you can even directly convert the housing over to all 9" parts. I am not sure what does and does not interchange (regarding the diff and gear set) if you try to hybrid them, but a complete parts swap is supposed to be direct.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on December 03, 2012, 09:59:26 PM
Post by: 83TB on December 03, 2012, 09:59:26 PM
Thanks for the info, looks like we found that I can use the Exploerer disc stuff.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on December 03, 2012, 10:04:31 PM
Post by: 83TB on December 03, 2012, 10:04:31 PM
Put new black lug nuts on and put it on the ground, wish it had a motor and tranny in it.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: FirstBird on December 03, 2012, 11:58:18 PM
Post by: FirstBird on December 03, 2012, 11:58:18 PM
dang that looks hot
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: EFFalcon on December 04, 2012, 12:32:32 AM
Post by: EFFalcon on December 04, 2012, 12:32:32 AM
yep, thats going to look killer when done.
love that body kit
love that body kit
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 14, 2013, 09:55:31 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 14, 2013, 09:55:31 PM
A little update, I ordered some motor mounts, I have new motor gasket kit in. Waiting on my wire harness to get back from http://www.mccullyracingmotors.com/. PM the guy on here about a A9L, so I am slowly getting there. I have a line on a T5 from local guy.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 18, 2013, 11:33:15 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 18, 2013, 11:33:15 PM
Motor mounts came in today!!!, worked out the deal for the T-5 with everything needed.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Jbecker386 on March 25, 2013, 09:38:02 PM
Post by: Jbecker386 on March 25, 2013, 09:38:02 PM
I really like that front bumper also the color do you know the name it looks like a color I've sprayed called hot red
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 28, 2013, 12:56:45 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 28, 2013, 12:56:45 PM
No I don't, car was painted in like 94 or 96 and set under carport until September of 2012, when I became owner. I got oil filter and plugs today, getting ready to do the break down of motor and hopfully have motor and trans seating in car soon.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: screaming306 on March 28, 2013, 10:08:42 PM
Post by: screaming306 on March 28, 2013, 10:08:42 PM
Hey Jerry, Im in grand bay alabama, (about 1 1/2 hour from p-cola) I have lots of extra T-bird parts, would like to check out your ride, maybe give you some ideas ?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 28, 2013, 10:17:53 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 28, 2013, 10:17:53 PM
Pm you 306
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on April 01, 2013, 01:50:34 PM
Post by: 83TB on April 01, 2013, 01:50:34 PM
Pull five speed from a 351W ranger today. I will be using this 5 speed in car.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on April 23, 2013, 09:48:34 PM
Post by: 83TB on April 23, 2013, 09:48:34 PM
Made harness for headlights and fog lights, going to add relays to make all work.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 02, 2013, 05:42:25 PM
Post by: 83TB on May 02, 2013, 05:42:25 PM
A few things I did today!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 02, 2013, 05:44:59 PM
Post by: 83TB on May 02, 2013, 05:44:59 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on June 02, 2013, 10:17:01 AM
Post by: 83TB on June 02, 2013, 10:17:01 AM
Low beams and High beams work, and relays check out ok.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: turbotrav on June 02, 2013, 10:36:53 AM
Post by: turbotrav on June 02, 2013, 10:36:53 AM
Bright light....Bright light...
Travis
Travis
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 23, 2013, 08:12:58 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 23, 2013, 08:12:58 PM
getting closer to putting in this week
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on July 23, 2013, 08:20:21 PM
Post by: STANG8U on July 23, 2013, 08:20:21 PM
Nice!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Chooglin on July 26, 2013, 10:11:17 AM
Post by: Chooglin on July 26, 2013, 10:11:17 AM
your doing a great job 83TB..............looking real nice!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 26, 2013, 01:36:35 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 26, 2013, 01:36:35 PM
In the car!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on July 26, 2013, 03:01:04 PM
Post by: STANG8U on July 26, 2013, 03:01:04 PM
Very nice bet you can not wait to fire her up
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 27, 2013, 08:28:59 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 27, 2013, 08:28:59 PM
Quote from: STANG8U;419170
Very nice bet you can not wait to fire her up
your right I can not wait for it to move on its on
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on July 27, 2013, 08:38:29 PM
Post by: STANG8U on July 27, 2013, 08:38:29 PM
Lol
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 01, 2013, 09:11:50 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 01, 2013, 09:11:50 PM
Mocking up where things go, cut A/C bracket up and going to weld in piece to make it fit the 351w.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 09, 2013, 11:08:35 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 09, 2013, 11:08:35 PM
I got the mirrors and trim on, clock and a/c controls from parts car in.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 24, 2013, 08:50:08 AM
Post by: 83TB on August 24, 2013, 08:50:08 AM
We cut and made the A/C-P/S bracket wider for the 351w.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Thunderbird88 on August 25, 2013, 09:24:53 AM
Post by: Thunderbird88 on August 25, 2013, 09:24:53 AM
Definetly looking good! How's the 351 swap so far?
I'm planning a 9.5 deck 427 stroker in mine next winter if everything goes as planned.
I'm planning a 9.5 deck 427 stroker in mine next winter if everything goes as planned.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 25, 2013, 10:57:45 AM
Post by: 83TB on August 25, 2013, 10:57:45 AM
So far so good, I have the BBK (351w swap) unequal shorties on it now, I will get bracket painted and put back on, and started getting radiator in with electric fan, a starter and alternator (3g) I will crank it.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on August 25, 2013, 02:22:20 PM
Post by: STANG8U on August 25, 2013, 02:22:20 PM
Looking good
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 02, 2013, 03:34:10 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 02, 2013, 03:34:10 PM
Clutch cable and adjuster are in with quadrant
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Thunder Chicken on September 02, 2013, 03:40:24 PM
Post by: Thunder Chicken on September 02, 2013, 03:40:24 PM
Is that Ryan Stabler's old car? I remember he was selling it on here awhile ago...
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 02, 2013, 06:49:07 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 02, 2013, 06:49:07 PM
No, local car here in pensacola, my buddy drove it during high school.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2013, 01:58:11 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 03, 2013, 01:58:11 PM
A friend brought me some electric fans by, from what I can tell by part number there off a Ford transit connect van, no fan module box but they do work when wired up. Trimmed the shroud a bit and there on.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on October 03, 2013, 02:13:20 PM
Post by: STANG8U on October 03, 2013, 02:13:20 PM
Similar to a contour should work good
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2013, 11:04:41 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2013, 11:04:41 PM
bad pic
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on October 08, 2013, 12:16:56 AM
Post by: STANG8U on October 08, 2013, 12:16:56 AM
Wow that's bulky lol
Hard to tell but how well dose it clear
Hard to tell but how well dose it clear
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 09:19:55 AM
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 09:19:55 AM
Better picture, yes little bulky, but Freebees!!! and I did not modify anything but the fan shroud to fit, so if I want slim ones later, no problem!! I research, and they flow like 3600 cfm!! I am spaced off core support about 1/2in, so I still have some room.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 09:24:30 AM
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 09:24:30 AM
might be hard to tell, but I heated and modified the heater tube to fit around the electric choke since I am using a factory intake for now, I have an extra straight heater tube for later when I get an aluminum intake, which it should clean then. I did not want to get long heater hoses, I like the idea of the heater tube.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 08:27:12 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 08:27:12 PM
Better picture of heater tube, I cleaned up and painted
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 08:31:09 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 08, 2013, 08:31:09 PM
Man a plate for the throttle cable bracket and msd blaster coil.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 12, 2013, 12:21:50 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 12, 2013, 12:21:50 PM
http://youtu.be/hPaaA-en_N0
First start!!
First start!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 28, 2013, 11:51:28 AM
Post by: 83TB on October 28, 2013, 11:51:28 AM
I ran some fuel line and put new power steering lines on, going to try another start this week, and check timing.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on October 28, 2013, 01:03:27 PM
Post by: STANG8U on October 28, 2013, 01:03:27 PM
Good stuff you know it fires
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 31, 2013, 08:40:49 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 31, 2013, 08:40:49 PM
Going to put a tach in the center, 2in gauges and 3-3/8in tach, equus brand, going to give them a shot!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 06, 2013, 02:55:32 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 06, 2013, 02:55:32 PM
Finished fuel line and gauge to carb
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: flylear45 on November 06, 2013, 06:11:23 PM
Post by: flylear45 on November 06, 2013, 06:11:23 PM
Not to be a kill-joy since I love what you are doing. BUT I see some bends in rubber hoses that are too tight and are asking to kink down and choke off the fuel and the breather.
Give it another look.
Give it another look.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 06, 2013, 06:20:28 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 06, 2013, 06:20:28 PM
yes the breather hose need to be fixed, I noticed that yesterday also, and I will get another fitting for the carb, so there is not such hard bend on fuel line.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on November 06, 2013, 07:23:20 PM
Post by: STANG8U on November 06, 2013, 07:23:20 PM
Gauges look good
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 07, 2013, 11:13:28 AM
Post by: 83TB on November 07, 2013, 11:13:28 AM
Thanks Stang8u, and I routed the air breather tube to fit better, it was bothering me after it was pointed out, thanks, looking at a different way on the fuel line, cause I am going to add a filter up there also. I cant wait to get this car going.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 10, 2013, 11:21:00 AM
Post by: 83TB on November 10, 2013, 11:21:00 AM
I went and got a banjo type fitting for the fuel inlet, which made the line straight, thanks for tip.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: flylear45 on November 10, 2013, 10:17:58 PM
Post by: flylear45 on November 10, 2013, 10:17:58 PM
Keep up the good work. It's looking good!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 11, 2013, 09:30:26 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 11, 2013, 09:30:26 PM
Need some new plug wires, but little update, put on some new PS high and low lines today.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 20, 2013, 07:49:13 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 20, 2013, 07:49:13 PM
Got the drive shaft cut and balanced, new u joints, and new u bolts, they even polished it up for me.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on November 20, 2013, 08:43:34 PM
Post by: STANG8U on November 20, 2013, 08:43:34 PM
Very nice !!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 21, 2013, 07:23:08 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 21, 2013, 07:23:08 PM
Another update, I had the back glass set today, and new exhaust hanger kit came in, ordered from later model restoration, great kit!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on November 21, 2013, 07:48:39 PM
Post by: STANG8U on November 21, 2013, 07:48:39 PM
So what all needs to be done to hit the road ?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 21, 2013, 08:45:04 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 21, 2013, 08:45:04 PM
3G alternator, bleed the brakes, hang the exhaust and some window felt so the glass doesn't rattle in the door. Local trim shop said they can get some universal kit for the doors, going to see what they have.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on November 21, 2013, 09:53:31 PM
Post by: STANG8U on November 21, 2013, 09:53:31 PM
Not to far off
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: flylear45 on November 22, 2013, 08:09:15 AM
Post by: flylear45 on November 22, 2013, 08:09:15 AM
Good job. It's coming along well. Should be a fun car for you!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 23, 2013, 07:24:11 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 23, 2013, 07:24:11 PM
Cleaned up the exhaust and ler today, the H-pipe look like the ler does in picutre before cleaning.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on December 08, 2013, 12:05:36 PM
Post by: 83TB on December 08, 2013, 12:05:36 PM
I got the h-pipe on the car, but going to have to get the pipes from ler to h-pipe done to finish, going to use turn downs for a bit, while finishing up other stuff. I have crank the motor several times now to time it and check for leaks, it ran fine for a good bit on Friday and never got over 180 on temp gauge setting in the shop running, the oil psi is about 50 idol and 60 psi with little revving up. The electric fans worked very well so far too. I have decided to add a another relay and switch to turn on and off the fuel pumps, just in case the key get turned on. if the weather is right this week, going to try finishing up the back window trim with paint and put it all back on. I will get some pics soon and upload of some of the progress, cause I have the red motorsport plug wiring coming in also.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on December 08, 2013, 01:37:49 PM
Post by: STANG8U on December 08, 2013, 01:37:49 PM
Sounds like she's almost ready for a drive
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on December 09, 2013, 05:04:55 PM
Post by: 83TB on December 09, 2013, 05:04:55 PM
Close fit with A/C and scoops!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on January 02, 2014, 01:15:29 AM
Post by: 83TB on January 02, 2014, 01:15:29 AM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on January 10, 2014, 09:45:13 PM
Post by: 83TB on January 10, 2014, 09:45:13 PM
I wrapped up the fuel line on the passenger since exhaust will be close by, and up by the front near the collectors.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on January 10, 2014, 09:47:09 PM
Post by: 83TB on January 10, 2014, 09:47:09 PM
And I got the regulator mounted up also, you can see how the wrap comes all the way up
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 85cougar on January 28, 2014, 12:12:09 AM
Post by: 85cougar on January 28, 2014, 12:12:09 AM
TTT, any updates
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on January 28, 2014, 09:51:13 AM
Post by: 83TB on January 28, 2014, 09:51:13 AM
I did get the regulator adjusted the other day, I need to bleed the brake system and get a 3g alt. I have to make some more mad cash, I have three atvs I am working on for some friends and fixing to but roof on house, but has soon as I get some more updates I will put up for sure.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 17, 2014, 12:08:53 PM
Post by: 83TB on February 17, 2014, 12:08:53 PM
Well I got the brakes bleed and have one sticking on the left rear. I am going to try and work on it this week, been sick this weekend, wasted a perfect weekend here in florida sick.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on February 17, 2014, 02:27:34 PM
Post by: STANG8U on February 17, 2014, 02:27:34 PM
I hate being sick and sticky breaks lol
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 18, 2014, 08:56:33 PM
Post by: 83TB on February 18, 2014, 08:56:33 PM
I did order the 3g alt from late model restoration with wiring kit. I also put a town car brake master cylinder on the other day. I will get back on the brakes this week.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 23, 2014, 09:15:31 AM
Post by: 83TB on February 23, 2014, 09:15:31 AM
3g with fuse holder!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on February 23, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
Post by: STANG8U on February 23, 2014, 03:02:21 PM
Nice!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 06, 2014, 08:50:27 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 06, 2014, 08:50:27 PM
I took the bird to the bus stop to pick up son, and to test the brakes out!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 06, 2014, 09:00:36 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 06, 2014, 09:00:36 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAlNSVitD1Q
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: STANG8U on March 06, 2014, 09:09:34 PM
Post by: STANG8U on March 06, 2014, 09:09:34 PM
Looking good !!!!!!!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: EFFalcon on March 07, 2014, 12:33:08 AM
Post by: EFFalcon on March 07, 2014, 12:33:08 AM
can't get used to that grill.... but love the rest.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MY83T on March 07, 2014, 01:07:47 AM
Post by: MY83T on March 07, 2014, 01:07:47 AM
Quote from: EFFalcon;430201
can't get used to that grill.... but love the rest.
That grill was in the Ford Motorsports catalog back in the day with the full authorized body kit, and was a hot ticket back then. I still like it on a monochrome TC.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 07, 2014, 10:02:53 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 07, 2014, 10:02:53 PM
I have the FMS wing also, not sure if I am going to use it or not, wish I had the FMS wing he had modified with a French in Honda third brake light, we cant find that one.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on April 23, 2014, 11:58:24 AM
Post by: 83TB on April 23, 2014, 11:58:24 AM
I have not lost interest guys, just have been busy with family stuff, soccer has started and we purchased a camper to do some camping this summer.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on June 18, 2014, 06:00:03 PM
Post by: 83TB on June 18, 2014, 06:00:03 PM
I got tbird out for some fresh air the other day to wash it up with the truck
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MechanicMatt on June 18, 2014, 09:29:17 PM
Post by: MechanicMatt on June 18, 2014, 09:29:17 PM
Dude, you live in the sunshine state. YOU NEED TO DRIVE that bird more. She is sooo pretty, she deserves to be driven and enjoyed.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on June 19, 2014, 08:20:00 PM
Post by: 83TB on June 19, 2014, 08:20:00 PM
Thanks I have some more brake work and have to get some struts and shocks before I feel safe to leave the neighborhood.
Quote from: MechanicMatt;434980
Dude, you live in the sunshine state. YOU NEED TO DRIVE that bird more. She is sooo pretty, she deserves to be driven and enjoyed.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Thunderbird88 on June 22, 2014, 04:44:45 PM
Post by: Thunderbird88 on June 22, 2014, 04:44:45 PM
Congrats on the testdrive after a lot of hard work!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 11, 2014, 07:19:45 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 11, 2014, 07:19:45 PM
I finally got the car to the ler shop and had the exhaust done, what a major difference, also found my brake line leak while car was up on the rack.
Me towing the bird to the ler shop
Me towing the bird to the ler shop
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: custompunk on July 12, 2014, 09:57:55 AM
Post by: custompunk on July 12, 2014, 09:57:55 AM
Nice, make sure to throw up a new video with the new lers. Your bird is awesome!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 06, 2014, 09:32:17 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 06, 2014, 09:32:17 PM
Well got her out today for a wash, I drove around the neighborhood a bit, now going up on the stands for the sn95 brake upgrade on the front. Also going with new struts and rear shocks. So cool, after setting up for a week or better, she started right up, now the carb is adjusted. Once I get the brakes and struts, I think I am going to get some casters and camber plates while I am in there. Updates coming soon
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 13, 2014, 08:02:10 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 13, 2014, 08:02:10 PM
Well I got the old air shocks off the rear, and so I went a head an cut the home made bump stops off, he had made them because he had a wall of 18in sub woofers where the back sent went. That box was heavy and it rubbed the tires, he had 15x8.5 reverse offset on it and stuck out past the fenders. I am glad he kept the factor spots with the rubber goes
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 03, 2014, 07:57:25 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 03, 2014, 07:57:25 PM
Ordered some new rear shocks today
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 12, 2014, 06:54:46 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 12, 2014, 06:54:46 PM
I went today back do the body shop that work on this car back in the 90's to look for the window felt tracks, so I can roll up the windows into the doors, well they have moved everything to a big storage shed out back, but I asked if they found the rear spoiler with the molded in third brake light that went to the car. Guess what, it was right in front of the stack. I did not have time to look into everything moved for the tracks. I need felt part, but I will take this find, it is part of the FMS body kit.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: bodyman on September 12, 2014, 10:14:12 PM
Post by: bodyman on September 12, 2014, 10:14:12 PM
Amazing they held on to that after all those years. Hopefully they held on to your window run weather strips too.
Your Bird is looking great.
Your Bird is looking great.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 13, 2014, 12:49:45 AM
Post by: 83TB on September 13, 2014, 12:49:45 AM
Man I hope so, that is what I really need right now, so the window can go up nice and tight.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 22, 2014, 08:24:56 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 22, 2014, 08:24:56 PM
Found a brake line leak on the rear line, and since I fixed the bump stop location, I had to cut off the tabs I had put on for the brake line. I relocated the tabs and got some new line to bend up today. Also got some new bleeder valves for the calibers. Rear shocks are done, so will not be long and the rear is finished. I will be ready to tackle the front brakes soon.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 27, 2014, 07:24:26 AM
Post by: 83TB on September 27, 2014, 07:24:26 AM
Installed window run channels from a 89 Lincoln mark vii, will get pics up soon
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 28, 2014, 08:26:33 AM
Post by: 83TB on September 28, 2014, 08:26:33 AM
I installed the window run channels from a 1989 mark vii, they fit great and looked good.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 15, 2014, 07:24:36 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 15, 2014, 07:24:36 PM
I installed a 93 cobra brake booster with a Lincoln m/c.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on January 02, 2015, 08:17:26 PM
Post by: 83TB on January 02, 2015, 08:17:26 PM
Ok, back at it some, I just placed my order for the CHE upper and lowers for the bird. I will post some pics when they come in. Get the rear end tighten up I will get back on the front, doing the SN-95 front spindles, CC plates, new struts, ball joints, and brakes.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 09, 2015, 06:51:38 PM
Post by: 83TB on February 09, 2015, 06:51:38 PM
Well, I had to replace the master cylinder on Saturday, was leaking on the brake booster side. I just got email from UPS that my CHE control arms will be here tomorrow. Also, chuck shock adapters soon be here soon too, cant wait. I am going to get some new rubber bushing for the rear mount for uppers and some new spring isolators so I can do all at one time.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 10, 2015, 08:32:12 PM
Post by: 83TB on February 10, 2015, 08:32:12 PM
They came in, can't wait to get them on.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: bmb1959 on February 10, 2015, 08:59:36 PM
Post by: bmb1959 on February 10, 2015, 08:59:36 PM
nice ihad a cougar,not as nice as this yet though
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Thunderbird88 on February 15, 2015, 10:45:29 PM
Post by: Thunderbird88 on February 15, 2015, 10:45:29 PM
Nice there!
I just recently ordered my adjustable uppers from CHE with rod ends.
Can't wait to get them on the car! But I went Maxium Motorsports on the lower.
I just recently ordered my adjustable uppers from CHE with rod ends.
Can't wait to get them on the car! But I went Maxium Motorsports on the lower.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 27, 2015, 10:45:44 AM
Post by: 83TB on February 27, 2015, 10:45:44 AM
I got the fog lights in, they are from my moms 85 tbird. She had a similar front spoiler, they are just Rally fog lights, I put new bulbs and painted them.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 01, 2015, 07:48:28 AM
Post by: 83TB on March 01, 2015, 07:48:28 AM
I received my chuck shock mounts, cant wait for couple more things and going to be putting all rear end stuff on
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 09, 2015, 07:59:36 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 09, 2015, 07:59:36 PM
I ordered torque box reinforcements and coil spring isolators, they will be here on Wednesday, only thing left to get is the tail housing rubber bushing for the uppers. I cant wait to start putting all this on the rear end.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on April 06, 2015, 08:16:44 PM
Post by: 83TB on April 06, 2015, 08:16:44 PM
I made a switch panel where the cigarette lighter plate was
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on April 07, 2015, 09:02:16 PM
Post by: 83TB on April 07, 2015, 09:02:16 PM
Well my fuse holder could not handle the current from the electric fans, so did so research and found that some guys run a St95 continuous duty solenoid (95amp) with a 60 amp maxi fuse. I also change out the power and ground to 8ga wire with fuse holder. Took out the fuse holder and put the solenoid there, going to get a better fuse holder for the relays for headlights, fog-lights, and fuel pumps
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on April 15, 2015, 07:08:02 PM
Post by: 83TB on April 15, 2015, 07:08:02 PM
My caster camber plates came in Monday, I will posted some pics up soon when I install them. Ordered them from JD's performance, they drop shipped from Maximum Motorsports.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on April 24, 2015, 11:09:25 AM
Post by: 83TB on April 24, 2015, 11:09:25 AM
I added a new fuse holder, replaced the one that melted from E-fans. I went with a blue-sea brand one 30 amp per and 100 amp total. I also we routed the wires so I could but it in the truck area with the battery. I ran an 8 ga wire to it from battery and 10ga wire to the accessories. I am running my low and high headlights, fog lights, fuel pump, and a 12volt accessory with relay. I just have it temporary where it is in the picture, left enough wire so I can move when I started putting interior back in.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 06, 2015, 07:24:49 PM
Post by: 83TB on May 06, 2015, 07:24:49 PM
Well I received my struts today, and I scored some 13 rotor and calibers that will be here on Friday. I also got a speedo plug for the T5 since I am not running a speedo. I also got the proportion valve plug and sn95 brake line adapter. Waiting on front spring isolators. I will get some 94 ball joints also.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Aerocoupe on May 06, 2015, 10:19:38 PM
Post by: Aerocoupe on May 06, 2015, 10:19:38 PM
The brakes are gonna be a huge improvement man! Cannot wait for pictures of them installed!!
Darren
Darren
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 07, 2015, 07:26:33 PM
Post by: 83TB on May 07, 2015, 07:26:33 PM
Darren you know I will get plenty of them, lol
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 11, 2015, 08:50:47 AM
Post by: 83TB on May 11, 2015, 08:50:47 AM
Started on new brakes and caster camber plates
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 12, 2015, 09:55:11 AM
Post by: 83TB on May 12, 2015, 09:55:11 AM
A little tease, lol
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Ramos617 on May 12, 2015, 02:11:36 PM
Post by: Ramos617 on May 12, 2015, 02:11:36 PM
I love how those calipers just pop
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 15, 2015, 06:41:47 PM
Post by: 83TB on May 15, 2015, 06:41:47 PM
Quote from: Ramos617;447996
I love how those calipers just pop
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 16, 2015, 11:20:30 AM
Post by: 83TB on May 16, 2015, 11:20:30 AM
before and after CC plates
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: jcassity on May 17, 2015, 08:54:31 AM
Post by: jcassity on May 17, 2015, 08:54:31 AM
finally strolled back through this thread,, its amazing how much time it really takes to restore.
way back when I saw your power distribution block I wish I would have posted back then with the efan that thing was too small.
however, I use the same one and you can open it up and basically "double up the copper laminations". I liked it because of its small profile.
I would rather have a long 10pos distribution block which I have now found, home made.
great work!!!
and that spoiler,, what are the odds of them still having it! nice work
way back when I saw your power distribution block I wish I would have posted back then with the efan that thing was too small.
however, I use the same one and you can open it up and basically "double up the copper laminations". I liked it because of its small profile.
I would rather have a long 10pos distribution block which I have now found, home made.
great work!!!
and that spoiler,, what are the odds of them still having it! nice work
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 30, 2015, 01:18:34 AM
Post by: 83TB on May 30, 2015, 01:18:34 AM
Started making a panel for the rear deck and rear seat delete. Waiting on next little bit of cash to save for brake lines, bumpsteer and sway bar links.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on June 09, 2015, 09:25:19 AM
Post by: 83TB on June 09, 2015, 09:25:19 AM
I ordered the front stainless brakes line this morning, MM-MMBK8F kit
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on June 12, 2015, 08:19:42 AM
Post by: 83TB on June 12, 2015, 08:19:42 AM
Installed the lines yesterday
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Clayton on June 12, 2015, 01:05:25 PM
Post by: Clayton on June 12, 2015, 01:05:25 PM
Thats a whole lotta red allllllllllllll over that car. Looks good though keep up the good work bud
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: bossman on June 12, 2015, 04:14:02 PM
Post by: bossman on June 12, 2015, 04:14:02 PM
Very Nice Car , welcome to the forum
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 01, 2015, 09:31:12 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 01, 2015, 09:31:12 PM
Installed the bump steer kit today, (don't mind the sway bar partial link in the picture just trying to line up sway bar)
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 08, 2015, 02:11:02 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 08, 2015, 02:11:02 PM
used the energy suspension adjustable 3-3/8 to 3-7/8 sway bar end links
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 15, 2015, 04:54:50 AM
Post by: 83TB on July 15, 2015, 04:54:50 AM
got some newer 245/45/17 all the way around, plus I rolled the rear fenders, (cause the 9in rear is wider than factory) and got alignment done this week.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: vinnietbird on July 15, 2015, 08:04:55 AM
Post by: vinnietbird on July 15, 2015, 08:04:55 AM
One step at a time. Nice work. At times, I wish I had gone ahead and done the 5 lug swap. Maybe one day I will.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 20, 2015, 09:56:31 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 20, 2015, 09:56:31 PM
Started putting some cheap sound mat in (stuff for window wrap) and some carpet for rear deck panel I made
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on July 20, 2015, 09:57:02 PM
Post by: 83TB on July 20, 2015, 09:57:02 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 07, 2015, 02:29:14 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 07, 2015, 02:29:14 PM
I did my headliner yesterday
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 08, 2015, 08:38:23 AM
Post by: 83TB on August 08, 2015, 08:38:23 AM
I put in the headliner last night and got the dome light mounted, going to try some L.E.D lights for it
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 11, 2015, 10:46:30 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 11, 2015, 10:46:30 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 11, 2015, 10:47:58 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 11, 2015, 10:47:58 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: MY83T on August 11, 2015, 11:28:43 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 11, 2015, 11:28:43 PM
its a work of art Jerry....truly.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Chooglin on August 12, 2015, 07:03:10 PM
Post by: Chooglin on August 12, 2015, 07:03:10 PM
wow.................that looks great !!!! You really did a nice job with everything on that Bird !
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 13, 2015, 08:30:14 AM
Post by: 83TB on August 13, 2015, 08:30:14 AM
Thank you guys for the complements, I will have more coming soon, I am working on interior and getting ideas for stereo and door poppers to install.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: rodsterh on August 13, 2015, 11:01:29 AM
Post by: rodsterh on August 13, 2015, 11:01:29 AM
Looking good!!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: gopedxr7 on August 13, 2015, 12:10:44 PM
Post by: gopedxr7 on August 13, 2015, 12:10:44 PM
looks amazing!
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 15, 2015, 09:53:39 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 15, 2015, 09:53:39 PM
Got bored Friday, did a little work on rear delete and some insulation
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 17, 2015, 07:05:46 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 17, 2015, 07:05:46 PM
some floor insulation, front and rear
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 17, 2015, 07:07:08 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 17, 2015, 07:07:08 PM
Started getting interior changed to black
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 17, 2015, 07:09:15 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 17, 2015, 07:09:15 PM
started getting interior changed over to black
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 21, 2015, 07:26:23 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 21, 2015, 07:26:23 PM
Gray arm pad, used dupi-color vinyl fabric can dye (paint)
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Ramos617 on August 22, 2015, 01:37:26 AM
Post by: Ramos617 on August 22, 2015, 01:37:26 AM
Your interior pieces look really good
What do you plan on doing with the seats?
What do you plan on doing with the seats?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 22, 2015, 02:43:05 AM
Post by: 83TB on August 22, 2015, 02:43:05 AM
Thank you
Not real sure just yet on the seats, I guess aftermarkets or mustang GT seats.
Not real sure just yet on the seats, I guess aftermarkets or mustang GT seats.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on August 22, 2015, 06:57:36 AM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on August 22, 2015, 06:57:36 AM
Its too bad the Halo headrest with the netting are so hard to find ( and expensive when you do find ) . I think they would look really nice in your car . just my :2c: You're doing some great work.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 22, 2015, 07:28:38 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 22, 2015, 07:28:38 PM
I do agree ^^^^^, but very hard to find and thank you
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 26, 2015, 07:39:29 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 26, 2015, 07:39:29 PM
My friend had a parts car, Lincoln Mark Viii, I took the black seat belts, and they fit very well.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:19:19 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:19:19 PM
Messed around with dash today, the dash pad was covered with gray velour back in the day. It cleaned up good, and I am going to leave it on there for now, scared to take it off and see what's under it right now. My friend painted my metal part for me last night, while I was at work and used this Sikkens Rally black, I really like it, Might take all outside trim off later and redo with this color black.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:22:23 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:22:23 PM
Messed around with dash today, the dash pad was covered with gray velour back in the day. It cleaned up good, and I am going to leave it on there for now, scared to take it off and see what's under it right now. My friend painted my metal part for me last night, while I was at work and used this Sikkens Rally black, I really like it, Might take all outside trim off later and redo with this color black.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:23:22 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:23:22 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:27:02 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:27:02 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:27:31 PM
Post by: 83TB on August 27, 2015, 07:27:31 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 03, 2015, 10:51:15 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 03, 2015, 10:51:15 PM
I had the windows tinted and I put new carpet in
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Ramos617 on September 04, 2015, 01:38:20 AM
Post by: Ramos617 on September 04, 2015, 01:38:20 AM
Man that is one sweet looking bird
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 14, 2015, 08:53:55 AM
Post by: 83TB on September 14, 2015, 08:53:55 AM
I used the Mark Viii seat belts, so when I put them in the panel I did not have the t-bird bezels, so I cut the panel to make the Mark Viii one work
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 18, 2015, 11:49:54 AM
Post by: 83TB on September 18, 2015, 11:49:54 AM
Got the console painted and getting it ready to put back in, I am going to try and figure out the power mirror switch since I put on the power mirrors on the car. The console and mirrors and harness came out of an 84, going to see if I can get them to work in the 83.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 20, 2015, 09:13:35 AM
Post by: 83TB on September 20, 2015, 09:13:35 AM
Went home last night and separated the mirror harness and wired it in. Both mirrors work great now. I also put in the boots for the wire in the door jam, I know its small stuff, but like to share it.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on September 21, 2015, 06:16:52 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on September 21, 2015, 06:16:52 PM
It's all the small stuff that makes a difference, nice progress.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 28, 2015, 08:34:16 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 28, 2015, 08:34:16 PM
I made a Plexiglas trim plate to go around cd player and eq. Yes they are old school, but still work, lol.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Ramos617 on September 28, 2015, 09:08:57 PM
Post by: Ramos617 on September 28, 2015, 09:08:57 PM
Very cool setup, if anything the old school car audio stuff is better than the newer stuff
What do all those buttons control?
What do all those buttons control?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on September 28, 2015, 09:37:37 PM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on September 28, 2015, 09:37:37 PM
I agree with Ramos on the "old school audio"... The newer stuff may be good but most of it looks out of place in our cars.( just my opinion) I actually searched Ebay to find an older Alpine for my Bird, Just because that's what I used "back in the day" lol.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on September 28, 2015, 10:34:56 PM
Post by: 83TB on September 28, 2015, 10:34:56 PM
Thanks guys, not sure if I know how to use the new stuff, lol, the buttons are for electric fans, electric fuel pump, gauge lights, and two extra right now.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:24:23 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:24:23 PM
cut out rear deck so I could get the JL audio 6x9's back there.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:28:53 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:28:53 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:31:38 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:31:38 PM
[attach]36905[/attach
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:38:01 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:38:01 PM
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:40:51 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:40:51 PM
I also worked on the shifter boot. I had the console from the parts car, which was an automatic. I got an 85 model manual bezel, but did not fit very well on the console. So I cut the bottom of the coin tray and then made a pattern to cut out the manual bezel top the place down in the tray. I have not found a way to fasten it down yet, so it is just laying in the tray for right now.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:42:31 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 08:42:31 PM
I also worked on the shifter boot. I had the console from the parts car, which was an automatic. I got an 85 model manual bezel, but did not fit very well on the console. So I cut the bottom of the coin tray and then made a pattern to cut out the manual bezel top the place down in the tray. I have not found a way to fasten it down yet, so it is just laying in the tray for right now.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on October 02, 2015, 09:24:24 PM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on October 02, 2015, 09:24:24 PM
Coming together nicely. Keep up the great work. Have you decided on a type of seats yet?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 09:39:22 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 02, 2015, 09:39:22 PM
not yet, looked at some of the seats on Ebay, but have not looked to hard yet.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2015, 09:20:29 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2015, 09:20:29 PM
I have the radio and eq powered up, I also ran the RCA's and speaker (16ga) wires. I ran two speaker wires into the door, mid and tweeter. I will put crossover somewhere in the back with the amps.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2015, 09:22:26 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2015, 09:22:26 PM
I have the radio and eq powered up, I also ran the RCA's and speaker (16ga) wires. I ran two speaker wires into the door, mid and tweeter. I will put crossover somewhere in the back with the amps.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on October 07, 2015, 09:42:25 PM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on October 07, 2015, 09:42:25 PM
What brand speakers are you going with? I hope to update my stereo over the winter. I have some older Rockford amps that I want to use.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2015, 10:31:26 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 07, 2015, 10:31:26 PM
I am using my Punch 60 for subs and Punch 4020 for mid and highs (old school). Probably some MB quarts for the 6.5 and tweet components in door.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 17, 2015, 09:16:56 AM
Post by: 83TB on October 17, 2015, 09:16:56 AM
My trunk lid was never painted, jammed it, and I put the cover on
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: Ramos617 on October 17, 2015, 08:08:23 PM
Post by: Ramos617 on October 17, 2015, 08:08:23 PM
I like the old school stereo setup
I bet it'll sound good too
I have these older Rockford hx 10" single coil subs that I got free at work a while back and I kid you not I've blown like 2-3 amps on them since using them haha, dang tough subs
I'm actually going with a component setup atm but I might end up with some different subs lol
I bet it'll sound good too
I have these older Rockford hx 10" single coil subs that I got free at work a while back and I kid you not I've blown like 2-3 amps on them since using them haha, dang tough subs
I'm actually going with a component setup atm but I might end up with some different subs lol
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on October 26, 2015, 07:10:24 PM
Post by: 83TB on October 26, 2015, 07:10:24 PM
inner window wipe (or seal) in place, now time for door pops, speakers, and fix up the door panels.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on October 26, 2015, 09:10:32 PM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on October 26, 2015, 09:10:32 PM
Quote from: 83TB;451795
My trunk lid was never painted, jammed it, and I put the cover on
I like the trunk lid cover..( wish mine had that) ..Gives it a clean, finished look.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on December 30, 2015, 07:07:15 PM
Post by: 83TB on December 30, 2015, 07:07:15 PM
Its been a bit, but I finally got my steering wheel on, not laugh at the floor mats, just temp ones while working on the inside still. Seats and finish up door pops and panels, then I can move to the system in the trunk.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on January 23, 2016, 10:39:13 PM
Post by: 83TB on January 23, 2016, 10:39:13 PM
Dodge SRT-4 caliber seats mounted up in the t-brid
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 1BadBird on January 23, 2016, 11:05:34 PM
Post by: 1BadBird on January 23, 2016, 11:05:34 PM
Sweet!!! Comfy looking seats
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on January 23, 2016, 11:53:22 PM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on January 23, 2016, 11:53:22 PM
Looking good. I was waiting to see what you would go with. Nice score on those seats.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on January 24, 2016, 12:37:03 AM
Post by: 83TB on January 24, 2016, 12:37:03 AM
Thank you, I think they are just a touch taller (in relation to seat height) than the factory seats, taking a little to get use to.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 03, 2016, 12:45:32 PM
Post by: 83TB on February 03, 2016, 12:45:32 PM
I went to a u pull it yard and got the bezel rings for the seat belt tensioner in the door jam, mine had primer all over it and was cracked, I was able to find a couple. I also started putting in door speakers.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on February 08, 2016, 08:42:02 PM
Post by: 83TB on February 08, 2016, 08:42:02 PM
scored some door panels from ebay
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 01, 2016, 06:01:57 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 01, 2016, 06:01:57 PM
I did some test fitting panels, and mounting tweeters
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on March 01, 2016, 09:50:12 PM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on March 01, 2016, 09:50:12 PM
Looks good.. Doing some nice work. Whats next on the list?
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on March 02, 2016, 01:58:22 PM
Post by: 83TB on March 02, 2016, 01:58:22 PM
finish sub box and truck area is next or getting back seat covered
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on May 17, 2016, 03:54:42 AM
Post by: 83TB on May 17, 2016, 03:54:42 AM
My buddy and I hanging out this past Saturday afternoon, little bit of cruising around.
Title: New Here 83 Thunderbird
Post by: 83TB on November 03, 2016, 02:35:08 PM
Post by: 83TB on November 03, 2016, 02:35:08 PM
I am not dead, been busy, but found a parts car and got some stuff for myself. Its not much, but I got the side carpet panel for the trunk, they need little cleaning and got a working truck light.