So there I was doing homework and what not and I get a call from Carlos.
A call from him can mean one of two things: something awesome happened or something is wrong...
more than likely something is wrong.
He tells me the driver's side fender (left) is bent and has some rust damage. I'm given two options: have him repair it or go buy another one.
After doing some research regarding price I had an approximate amount for a new fender. I called him back and told him the price. It would be cheaper for him to repair the old one than buy a new one.
Well that sucks... But at least I know that he is being honest with me.
Good man.
Monday, October 15, 2012
15 August: New Body Parts!
I get a call from Mustangs OC. When I pick up the phone to answer the first thing I hear is: "The Eagle has landed." Everything was ready for me to inspect and pickup.
I was there the next day. It was extremely satisfying to see all those new beautiful body parts for me. It was a sign of progress, that's all I need to make the car right.
That weekend... rushed up to Yorba Linda to give the parts to Carlos (I was leaving for Chicago in the next couple days so that could explain the sudden rush). Once I got there, Carlos wanted to inspect the body panels as well just to make sure.
We hung out for about an hour just talking about cars, school, and such. It was a really pleasant experience. I told him that I was going away to Chicago and wouldn't be back til Thanksgiving or so. With confidence he told me that a lot of progress would be done between now and then.
Sorry no pictures.
Mid July: Calling in a Large Order
I called my local Mustang store, Mustangs and Fast Fords OC, to see if I could place this ridiculous order. Turns out that I could get everything I need from this store.
It would two weeks to have everything in store so I had to wait a little more.
When I heard the total amount of said body parts all I could think of is "there goes summer's earnings"
It would two weeks to have everything in store so I had to wait a little more.
When I heard the total amount of said body parts all I could think of is "there goes summer's earnings"
Mid July: Mustang's down to Bare Metal
With summer in full swing, including a job and an internship, I was always waiting for the phone call to see the Mustang. My patience paid off when I finally got the call.
It wasn't exactly good news... apparently a part of the body was all kinds of messed. I really couldn't picture what kind of damage he was describing but I had to go see it.
I went up there later that week with my dad and Steve. We met up with Carlos and he showed us the car. I was quite shocked to find the car like this...
IT'S NAKED!
I kept looking at the car as if I had never seen it before.
Now back to car business...
The driver's side (left) of the car is in good shape but the passenger side was a different story.
(I'll describe the two biggest problems)
The front right fender was rusted along the bottom and would need to be replaced.
The BIG problem was the right rear quarter panel...
See all those white spots that are next to the trunk and run along the rest of the body?
OK so here is the best hypothesis of what happened.
Sometime in 80s or early 90s the car got hit pretty hard and it needed some parts replaced. The body guys back then replaced the "fastback" quarter panel with a "coupe" quarter panel. This is a HUGE problem because the sheet metal between the body styles has a completely different shape. Those white spots are the weld marks needed to make the 'coupe' quarter panel "fit". There were 3 rows of weld lines on the quarter panel!! AND the tail light panel and lower valence were messed up too.
In short it all needs to be replaced.
It was a pleasant meeting with Carlos and I left with a rather large shopping list.
New Hood
Hood Scoop (actually I want that)
Right Fender (has to made by original Ford tooling. Reproductions don't match up nicely)
Right Quarter Panel
Front Lower Valance
Rear Lower Valance
Tail Light Panel
Door Hinges
Where's my catalog?!
It wasn't exactly good news... apparently a part of the body was all kinds of messed. I really couldn't picture what kind of damage he was describing but I had to go see it.
IT'S NAKED!
I kept looking at the car as if I had never seen it before.
Now back to car business...
The driver's side (left) of the car is in good shape but the passenger side was a different story.
(I'll describe the two biggest problems)
The front right fender was rusted along the bottom and would need to be replaced.
The BIG problem was the right rear quarter panel...
OK so here is the best hypothesis of what happened.
Sometime in 80s or early 90s the car got hit pretty hard and it needed some parts replaced. The body guys back then replaced the "fastback" quarter panel with a "coupe" quarter panel. This is a HUGE problem because the sheet metal between the body styles has a completely different shape. Those white spots are the weld marks needed to make the 'coupe' quarter panel "fit". There were 3 rows of weld lines on the quarter panel!! AND the tail light panel and lower valence were messed up too.
In short it all needs to be replaced.
It was a pleasant meeting with Carlos and I left with a rather large shopping list.
New Hood
Hood Scoop (actually I want that)
Right Fender (has to made by original Ford tooling. Reproductions don't match up nicely)
Right Quarter Panel
Front Lower Valance
Rear Lower Valance
Tail Light Panel
Door Hinges
Where's my catalog?!
(Still) June 2012: Meeting with the Body Guy
In an earlier post, I mentioned that my buddy Robert would get me in touch with his paint and body guru Carlos. I got the guy's phone number and we set a time to meet up.
I gotta say that the first meeting went really well. Stripping the car of most its interior was a good idea so he could a decent idea of what's going on. I quickly realized that I did not strip the car nearly enough for his standards (hey it's my first time).
He said that the car looks like a good start and it's really cool that I got a hold of a fastback.
But he had other projects that was finishing up before he could start mine so I had to wait two weeks.
Two Weeks later...
I drove up to Yorba Linda with my parental unit. Keep in mind that Yorba Linda is about one freeway ride away. The mustang did a good job on the freeway, it was happily cruising at 55mph. I was getting passed like no other but we eventually made it to his garage.
This garage was just awesome. There were classics parked inside and outside, I knew I was in the right spot. Inside he had: a 40s Ford, 70s Corvette, Nissan 270ZX, Ford Model A and VW Bug.
But the real show stopper was in his other garage... it was 1940s Dodge 4 door (I have no idea as to its true identity). Carlos told us that he painted the car back in the 80s and it still looks brand new (it really did)
We eventually agreed on a price for him to do a complete tear down including paint removal. That way we can really see any potential problems with the body.
Although I am extremely optimistic.
I gotta say that the first meeting went really well. Stripping the car of most its interior was a good idea so he could a decent idea of what's going on. I quickly realized that I did not strip the car nearly enough for his standards (hey it's my first time).
He said that the car looks like a good start and it's really cool that I got a hold of a fastback.
But he had other projects that was finishing up before he could start mine so I had to wait two weeks.
Two Weeks later...
I drove up to Yorba Linda with my parental unit. Keep in mind that Yorba Linda is about one freeway ride away. The mustang did a good job on the freeway, it was happily cruising at 55mph. I was getting passed like no other but we eventually made it to his garage.
This garage was just awesome. There were classics parked inside and outside, I knew I was in the right spot. Inside he had: a 40s Ford, 70s Corvette, Nissan 270ZX, Ford Model A and VW Bug.
But the real show stopper was in his other garage... it was 1940s Dodge 4 door (I have no idea as to its true identity). Carlos told us that he painted the car back in the 80s and it still looks brand new (it really did)
We eventually agreed on a price for him to do a complete tear down including paint removal. That way we can really see any potential problems with the body.
Although I am extremely optimistic.
Monday, September 10, 2012
June 2012: Driving Around Town
Now that the interior looks like this...
driving around is a bit different experience.
For starters there is some more noise in the interior and I figured out how those "gills" on the side of the car work. Once I got those things opened up, there was more ventilation in the cat. And I truly believe I was getting better fuel economy when I was driving around (less weight to move around).
And giving people a ride is a bit more uncomfortable... there is barely anything left in the car! A carpet, a steering wheel, one bench seat, and a dashboard is all that remains. But secretly I thought it was kinda cool.
I also took the Mustang on the freeway for the first time. Let me tell you... I was sweating bullets. A number of things could have gone wrong but luckily nothing happened. I cruised at around 55mph and everything went really well. That radiator I bought kept the engine nice and cool.
But driving was short lived. After talking with Robert, I scheduled a meeting time with Carlos (the body guy).
For starters there is some more noise in the interior and I figured out how those "gills" on the side of the car work. Once I got those things opened up, there was more ventilation in the cat. And I truly believe I was getting better fuel economy when I was driving around (less weight to move around).
And giving people a ride is a bit more uncomfortable... there is barely anything left in the car! A carpet, a steering wheel, one bench seat, and a dashboard is all that remains. But secretly I thought it was kinda cool.
I also took the Mustang on the freeway for the first time. Let me tell you... I was sweating bullets. A number of things could have gone wrong but luckily nothing happened. I cruised at around 55mph and everything went really well. That radiator I bought kept the engine nice and cool.
But driving was short lived. After talking with Robert, I scheduled a meeting time with Carlos (the body guy).
June 2012: Taking the Interior Apart (Day 2)
I showed up to the warehouse the next morning with high hopes of getting things done. I got tools I need, the zip-loc baggies, and a real big box to take care of the miscellaneous interior body panels.
Just like Gerry said, start from the roof and make my way down. When I started taking off the roof panel I was greeted with a pleasant surprise...
Yeah, I found a two-barrel carb gasket in the roof in my car. How in the blazes did that get up there?!?!
As I kept making my way down things were going real smooth. Carefully taking parts off and bagging them. When I removed some of the bigger interior panels I found some spider-webs. Apparently my car was a safe haven for all sorts of critters up in the mountains!
I had a lot of fun taking the car apart. It was really cool seeing how all the pieces fit together. One thing I was continuously vacuuming up the dirt and cleaning the grime that formed in the car. I was really pleased myself for doing such a good job (and without breaking anything!)
Here's what I took out of the car...
It looked pretty naked in there while I continued to drive around town.
Just like Gerry said, start from the roof and make my way down. When I started taking off the roof panel I was greeted with a pleasant surprise...
As I kept making my way down things were going real smooth. Carefully taking parts off and bagging them. When I removed some of the bigger interior panels I found some spider-webs. Apparently my car was a safe haven for all sorts of critters up in the mountains!
I had a lot of fun taking the car apart. It was really cool seeing how all the pieces fit together. One thing I was continuously vacuuming up the dirt and cleaning the grime that formed in the car. I was really pleased myself for doing such a good job (and without breaking anything!)
Here's what I took out of the car...
It looked pretty naked in there while I continued to drive around town.
June 2012: Taking the Interior Apart (Day 1)
Unfortunately I did not any work done on the car during May because I stayed in Chicago longer and I was spending my time studying for the LSAT (I didn't take it in the end, I need more practice before I take the real one). I picked the car up from Fords Only because I was planning on doing the body work while I was in school.
When June rolled around, I decided that I should begin taking the car apart so when I DO turn it over to the body shop I can save some money. Great! But where do I start??
I went back to my friend Gerry to ask for some guidance. He told me that I should take off some the exterior trim but not the bumpers. I am legally required to keep them on. Before I knew it we were taking some exterior parts off the car... probably because I was asking too many questions.
We took off the rear bumper to get access to some of the rear trim pieces.
After I took this photo, Gerry pulled out a can of black spray paint and hit all the red parts. It looked a lot better when it was all one color.
We tried taking out the radio antenna out but to no avail. Meanwhile, I'm still finding pine needles!!
I then asked where do I begin when I want to take apart the interior. He told me to work from the top down (roof to carpet). He told me to be sure to bag all the little screws that come out of these interior panels, so I can keep track of them and probably reuse them.
One piece that really concerned me was how do I take out the back seat. Turns out it was easier for us to take it out than have him explain it to me. It was tougher than I thought but we got it done (and without breaking anything!!)
Really productive day especially since I only planned on asking questions. I was so pumped that I decided that I would spend the rest of the next day taking the rest of the interior apart.
When June rolled around, I decided that I should begin taking the car apart so when I DO turn it over to the body shop I can save some money. Great! But where do I start??
I went back to my friend Gerry to ask for some guidance. He told me that I should take off some the exterior trim but not the bumpers. I am legally required to keep them on. Before I knew it we were taking some exterior parts off the car... probably because I was asking too many questions.
We took off the rear bumper to get access to some of the rear trim pieces.
After I took this photo, Gerry pulled out a can of black spray paint and hit all the red parts. It looked a lot better when it was all one color.
We tried taking out the radio antenna out but to no avail. Meanwhile, I'm still finding pine needles!!
I then asked where do I begin when I want to take apart the interior. He told me to work from the top down (roof to carpet). He told me to be sure to bag all the little screws that come out of these interior panels, so I can keep track of them and probably reuse them.
One piece that really concerned me was how do I take out the back seat. Turns out it was easier for us to take it out than have him explain it to me. It was tougher than I thought but we got it done (and without breaking anything!!)
Easter 2012: Body Shop Homework
During the school year, Fords Only was able to get hold of a body shop for me. I was told that this is a good shop and that they were ready for my car. I was pleasantly surprised to hear the great news but I had to ask the big question... how much?? $9800. This really is a good price for all the work the car needs but I don't have that much money to throw down. I turned it down and had to keep looking.
I headed back to California for Easter with the family but since I home I could do some (car) homework.
I asked some car friends and tried talking to other people at Donut Derelicts. I was learning a lot about the common body problems that Mustangs have, how body shops work, and what I can do to save some money.
This was all great info but I didn't have a shop picked out yet. I talked to my friend Robert and asked for advice on the situation and he gave me just the answer I was looking. He told me about his friend Carlos who was really good at body work. Carlos is Robert's guru in all things body related, Score! I was told that we could set up a meeting with Carlos when I was back in California for summer.
It was a long wait!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
February 23 New Idea
After talking with Fords Only, I have come to learn that I need a new hood. It would be cheaper for me to buy a new hood... I get to do a little external customization. Fords Only recommended I upgrade to the GT style hood with two air vents with turn indicators. Here's a little picture:
He tells me that they are a cool upgrade. I take his advice and decide to price it out. To make the hood work work with air vents and turn indicators to work properly costs $369.
Then I thought of something else... what about going for the really cool Cobra Jet look?
After pricing out all the components to make it work: $330. No brainer for me and it will look a lot cooler.
Then I thought of something else... what about going for the really cool Cobra Jet look?
After pricing out all the components to make it work: $330. No brainer for me and it will look a lot cooler.
See that big hood scoop? To me that's pretty cool looking. One thing about going this direction is that I have to buy a regular hood and a hood scoop and THEN have someone cut a hole in the hood and attach the scoop. ONE more thing: I am going to add that red C-stripe on my car. I think it will make my car stand out a bit and make it look pretty sweet.
PS: even though that is a model that's the way I want my car to look.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
January 31, 2012 A Phone Call
California Mustang called: the bench seat is ready to be picked up. Can't wait to see how they turned out.
Sorry no picture
Sorry no picture
January 20, 2012 A Change of Plans
I get a call from Dad giving me an update on the car. He told me that the car is now at Fords Only so that the interior can be done.
The mechanic and Dad talked and agreed that it would be most beneficial to have the body work done. The plan would be to take the interior out of the car, all of it except for a driver's seat and steering wheel. The mechanic would then make some phone calls to see who can take care of the car the best for a reasonable price. Then the exterior and the interior of the car can be done in one swoop.
One problem or two: Body work costs money not matter what. Just how much? And what about getting the interior back in the car?
The mechanic and Dad talked and agreed that it would be most beneficial to have the body work done. The plan would be to take the interior out of the car, all of it except for a driver's seat and steering wheel. The mechanic would then make some phone calls to see who can take care of the car the best for a reasonable price. Then the exterior and the interior of the car can be done in one swoop.
One problem or two: Body work costs money not matter what. Just how much? And what about getting the interior back in the car?
January 14, 2012 California Mustang
After surviving the treacherous drive to City of Industry, it was time to order some parts. When my dad and I got there the store was packed. We were patient and waited our turn. When the next sales associate was available I told him that I had a big order and made sure he was ready for what I was going to dish out.
Before I even start to begin the big order, there is a problem. The kit doesn't cover bench seats, only bucket seats. I had to custom order the bench seat and the comfort weave (another extremely odd option). It took a long time to accurately order all the right parts and color. While ordering my grandfather came into the shop to see us and understand what I was ordering that day. He even agreed to picking up the bench seat when they came in, which was extremely helpful.
All these new interior parts look really good and I can't wait to see them installed in the car when I return!
Before I even start to begin the big order, there is a problem. The kit doesn't cover bench seats, only bucket seats. I had to custom order the bench seat and the comfort weave (another extremely odd option). It took a long time to accurately order all the right parts and color. While ordering my grandfather came into the shop to see us and understand what I was ordering that day. He even agreed to picking up the bench seat when they came in, which was extremely helpful.
All these new interior parts look really good and I can't wait to see them installed in the car when I return!
January 14, 2012 Donut Derelicts
I sure go to this place a lot. Go there too much? no way.
On this particular trip I had my cousin Jennifer come with me. She really thought that the whole thing was cool and that she wanted to get an old car as well.
When I back into a spot and get out of the car do I realize that I have parked next to two other Mustangs. This was pretty cool because each one was a different body style: fastback, coupe, and convertible.
1968 Fastback 1968 Coupe 1969 Converible
It was even cooler that all three had different kinds of engines as well.
Lots of cool cars on this Saturday, I took a couple other pictures.
On this particular trip I had my cousin Jennifer come with me. She really thought that the whole thing was cool and that she wanted to get an old car as well.
When I back into a spot and get out of the car do I realize that I have parked next to two other Mustangs. This was pretty cool because each one was a different body style: fastback, coupe, and convertible.
Lots of cool cars on this Saturday, I took a couple other pictures.
January 13, 2012 Radiator Fixed
When picking up the car I asked the mechanic if he would want to take apart the interior and install the new stuff. He agreed to do it while I was away for school.
When I usually go to the warehouse I usually take Airway Ave to get there. It's great because there is no traffic and it is a straight path to the office. I gun it...
this car is not the fastest by any means but it sure felt like it. The engine was loud and I watched speedometer make its way to the top. I make it to 70mph, a new personal record in this car. I know that it can do more.
No overheating at all.
When I usually go to the warehouse I usually take Airway Ave to get there. It's great because there is no traffic and it is a straight path to the office. I gun it...
this car is not the fastest by any means but it sure felt like it. The engine was loud and I watched speedometer make its way to the top. I make it to 70mph, a new personal record in this car. I know that it can do more.
No overheating at all.
January 12, 2012 Fords Only
When I got the car taken care of before I came for Thanksgiving, the mechanic told me that my radiator needs to be replaced. I can still drive it around Orange County but I can't push the car too hard. After nearly completely overheating on my way to Long Beach, I need a new radiator! I decided to buy a cool aluminum radiator from Mustangs and Fast Fords.
Turns out... it didn't fit. I had to pick up the radiator from Fords Only, return it, and find a replacement before noon. After numerous phone calls, I found one in Orange. I got a pretty sweet deal and the new radiator is a 3-Row which will keep the car a lot cooler. I run back to Fords Only to see if it will fit....
it does. I also asked if I could have the tail light fixed. I showed him the ticket... he laughed. He said he would do it.
Earlier that week...
I learned that the 289 V8 is a healthy engine after a compression check. It does not need to be rebuilt any time soon which truly confirms that getting the interior done is the priority.
The compression check. That orange car in the background is another 68 Fastback. That car is 100% done but I have mixed feelings about the orange
Turns out... it didn't fit. I had to pick up the radiator from Fords Only, return it, and find a replacement before noon. After numerous phone calls, I found one in Orange. I got a pretty sweet deal and the new radiator is a 3-Row which will keep the car a lot cooler. I run back to Fords Only to see if it will fit....
it does. I also asked if I could have the tail light fixed. I showed him the ticket... he laughed. He said he would do it.
Earlier that week...
I learned that the 289 V8 is a healthy engine after a compression check. It does not need to be rebuilt any time soon which truly confirms that getting the interior done is the priority.
Early January 2012
After a relaxing trip in Napa Valley, it's time to get back to work. I now have only one week left to do something monumental. During the trip, I learned that my own mother has not even been inside the Mustang. It is now becoming more apparent to me that completing the interior is more important than going fast.
I look through my catalog books and I discover that I can buy an interior kit, which will basically replace everything that is disgusting in the interior. The price tag seems fair and I have shopped at this location before. This parts store is California Mustang, City of Industry. Dad and I decide to go to Industry on the upcoming Saturday.
Meanwhile...
I got pulled over by the POLICE. Turns out my left brake light was not working. I got a fix-it-ticket. In short I was not happy (obviously), especially since I fixed the right tail light in May!
I look through my catalog books and I discover that I can buy an interior kit, which will basically replace everything that is disgusting in the interior. The price tag seems fair and I have shopped at this location before. This parts store is California Mustang, City of Industry. Dad and I decide to go to Industry on the upcoming Saturday.
Meanwhile...
I got pulled over by the POLICE. Turns out my left brake light was not working. I got a fix-it-ticket. In short I was not happy (obviously), especially since I fixed the right tail light in May!
A Side Note
For all those that are reading this blog, I really appreciate it. I know that some of the recent posts have been long but I'm trying to catch up on lost time. I hope you have been enjoying the story of turning this project car into a real 1968 Fastback Mustang. One thing I have not mentioned previously is that the people who have been helping me, I am truly great full.
As I have been going on this journey I have become more and more aware that my Mustang is exceptionally rare. Every time I tell anyone that I have a 68 Mustang they aren't impressed. When I mention that it is a fastback they become slightly more interested. When I mention that it is a bench seat, they are very surprised. Another rarity feature on my car, is the reflectors on the rear fenders. Most reflectors on 68 Mustangs are square, while this Mustang has a hexagon shape.
As I have been going on this journey I have become more and more aware that my Mustang is exceptionally rare. Every time I tell anyone that I have a 68 Mustang they aren't impressed. When I mention that it is a fastback they become slightly more interested. When I mention that it is a bench seat, they are very surprised. Another rarity feature on my car, is the reflectors on the rear fenders. Most reflectors on 68 Mustangs are square, while this Mustang has a hexagon shape.
Christmas 2011 Part 3
After successfully completing the repaint of the engine compartment. It was time to begin thinking again of what to do next with the car. Stevie and his father (Mr. Schiesser) came by the warehouse to check out the Mustang. Mr. Schiesser was impressed by how well the spray painting turned out and thinks that it is a good looking car. After hanging out we all decide to go to Five Guys (thought it was only a MidWest thing, guess not).
While there Mr. Schiesser asks me what I plan to do with the car next. I tell him that I would really like to make it a hot rod at the expense of terrible cosmetics. He listened to what I had to say and he did not agree with my plan whatsoever. He used to work for a car dealer and has seen the different kind of trade ins. He told me that I can make it fast but it will still be a piece of shit. He's right, I'm ashamed to show anyone the bench seats in the car or the interior as well. Since the car drives and stops, performance can be put on the back burner. Make it look good.
A family vacation to Napa Valley temporarily stopped progress on the car. When I come from Napa, I have more homework to do.
While there Mr. Schiesser asks me what I plan to do with the car next. I tell him that I would really like to make it a hot rod at the expense of terrible cosmetics. He listened to what I had to say and he did not agree with my plan whatsoever. He used to work for a car dealer and has seen the different kind of trade ins. He told me that I can make it fast but it will still be a piece of shit. He's right, I'm ashamed to show anyone the bench seats in the car or the interior as well. Since the car drives and stops, performance can be put on the back burner. Make it look good.
A family vacation to Napa Valley temporarily stopped progress on the car. When I come from Napa, I have more homework to do.
Christmas 2011 Part 2
I went back to my friend Gerry asking what I could do to the car while I was back. He suggested that I really clean out the engine compartment and repaint the engine compartment semi-gloss black. I was very interested in this idea and I asked him everything that I need to buy and know. After I did my shopping, we met at a local quarter car wash place to steam clean the engine.
Needless to say, it was incredibly dirty! Gerry introduced me to the best cleaner for automobile purposes, Simple Green. This stuff cleaned the area extremely well and it even revealed a hidden secret about my car. I discovered a handwritten note from the factory that was on the top of the inner fender. It says: 24 and beneath that 3-14. I think it means that car rolled of the assembly line on March 14 and may have been car 24 for that day. After the steam cleaning, the engine compartment looked ten times better! But I wasn't done yet.
The next day...
Accompanied with my friend, Stevie Schiesser (John's brother), we were going to finish this project. Armed with our own pressure washer, we continued to clean the car. Gerry told me the day before that to do the best job, I needed to spray the engine from the ground up. We put the car on the wheel ramps to get the best angle.
The first step was to get Simple Green all over the greasy parts and then hit it with the pressure washer.
One more thing! We took out the radiator and fan blade so we could have more room to work. We also had to cover all openings and electrical components before really using the pressure washer.
Now it's finally time to get washing!
Stevie was not messing around that day. He was the jumpsuit and safety glasses to get it done. He did a very good job, bravo Stevie. And we made quite a mess but don't worry we cleaned it all up. After some scrubbing with a toilet brush (new toilet brush), even more grease came off. Now we wait for the car to dry before we can apply paint. Time for lunch!
I don't have too much experience with spray paint, with the exception of Eagle Scout projects (as long as you can't see the bare surface you're good). I called in reinforcements... Dad. We taped off the paint on the body and put all around the fenders and grill area.
He showed us a more efficient technique. First we primed the compartment and much to my delight I begin spotting stamps in the inner fenders and reinforcement bars. We let the primer sit for a while at which point dad gave us some other work to do. Then we finally got to spray painting and it was fun.
When it was finished the semi-gloss looked really good. We decided to leave the car overnight to make sure the paint dried and stuck.
The next day...
It looks like all the other engine compartments I've seen on other Mustangs. There was a few missed patches so we quickly resprayed those areas. It looked complete and correct.
Needless to say, it was incredibly dirty! Gerry introduced me to the best cleaner for automobile purposes, Simple Green. This stuff cleaned the area extremely well and it even revealed a hidden secret about my car. I discovered a handwritten note from the factory that was on the top of the inner fender. It says: 24 and beneath that 3-14. I think it means that car rolled of the assembly line on March 14 and may have been car 24 for that day. After the steam cleaning, the engine compartment looked ten times better! But I wasn't done yet.
The next day...
Accompanied with my friend, Stevie Schiesser (John's brother), we were going to finish this project. Armed with our own pressure washer, we continued to clean the car. Gerry told me the day before that to do the best job, I needed to spray the engine from the ground up. We put the car on the wheel ramps to get the best angle.
Now it's finally time to get washing!
I don't have too much experience with spray paint, with the exception of Eagle Scout projects (as long as you can't see the bare surface you're good). I called in reinforcements... Dad. We taped off the paint on the body and put all around the fenders and grill area.
He showed us a more efficient technique. First we primed the compartment and much to my delight I begin spotting stamps in the inner fenders and reinforcement bars. We let the primer sit for a while at which point dad gave us some other work to do. Then we finally got to spray painting and it was fun.
When it was finished the semi-gloss looked really good. We decided to leave the car overnight to make sure the paint dried and stuck.
The next day...
It looks like all the other engine compartments I've seen on other Mustangs. There was a few missed patches so we quickly resprayed those areas. It looked complete and correct.
Christmas 2011 Part 1
After a most successful semester in Loyola, time to come home. The Christmas season was very pleasant and I hope y'all enjoyed the holidays as well. Now that I'm back: what to do next????
My dad came up with the idea of doing something major to the car while I would be away for the spring semester. When I come back, it would be ready for me.
I start talking to many different people about what I can do next. Engine? Performance? Interior/Exterior? Cosmetics? I decided that, like Ricky Bobby, I want to go fast! I have headers, intake manifold, and new valve covers that's a pretty good start. After listening to many different options from: bringing the engine back to stock, getting a 5.0 engine to replace, or turn the current engine into something special. I choose to keep the original engine (for originality factor) and make it something special.
I have also been interested in upgrading the transmission. The goal is to achieve better gas mileage and do better on the highway, and possibly handle new power. I was interested in the idea of a AOD Transmission, a 4-Speed automatic. It would take some slight modification to fit but it can work.
Looks like everything planned out but I know that I could improve the car without spending lots of money.
My dad came up with the idea of doing something major to the car while I would be away for the spring semester. When I come back, it would be ready for me.
I start talking to many different people about what I can do next. Engine? Performance? Interior/Exterior? Cosmetics? I decided that, like Ricky Bobby, I want to go fast! I have headers, intake manifold, and new valve covers that's a pretty good start. After listening to many different options from: bringing the engine back to stock, getting a 5.0 engine to replace, or turn the current engine into something special. I choose to keep the original engine (for originality factor) and make it something special.
I have also been interested in upgrading the transmission. The goal is to achieve better gas mileage and do better on the highway, and possibly handle new power. I was interested in the idea of a AOD Transmission, a 4-Speed automatic. It would take some slight modification to fit but it can work.
Looks like everything planned out but I know that I could improve the car without spending lots of money.
Thanksgiving 2011
Back in beautiful Southern California! It was sure nice seeing my friends, family, and I even ran a 10K. But I had been away from Karen (name of the Mustang) for too long and it was time for some bonding. Like before I didn't even think of venturing out of Orange County. On the other hand I had to hit PCH for the best driving. On my down south towards Newport Coast, I stopped by Ruby's Shake Shack to take a look at the Pacific. Some folk say that Lake Michigan is just like the ocean but I disagree. No waves.
More important than that was going back to favorite place on Saturday mornings. Remember Terry? I told him that I was back in California and agreed to give me the parts previously mentioned. Score! We met at Donut Derelicts and I got those parts. Smile from ear to ear. I'm getting parts to make the car go faster, which makes me happy. After getting my donut fill for the day, I headed over to the Wedge.
It has really come a long way from April. That crooked bumper still gets to me though.
More important than that was going back to favorite place on Saturday mornings. Remember Terry? I told him that I was back in California and agreed to give me the parts previously mentioned. Score! We met at Donut Derelicts and I got those parts. Smile from ear to ear. I'm getting parts to make the car go faster, which makes me happy. After getting my donut fill for the day, I headed over to the Wedge.
During School. But how?
At the start of this semester I get a call from my parents saying that they bought tire covers. I already had a car cover to help protect the... er, paint but now that I have a nice set of wheels(rims) it is worth protecting. The Mustang was usually parked next to a public sprinkler system so it would get sprayed. I had the same problem with my 66 Mustang, the entire left side of the car had total oxidization. It is extremely difficult to remove, but easy to prevent.
Late in October I get another call. The male parental unit decided to clean the garage out of the blue. And I seriously mean clean the garage. He made enough room so the two car garage can now have two cars in it. That was incredible news. And the tire covers that were just bought now have even more important job: protecting the wheels and tire from dog "pee pee".
Before I came back to California for Thanksgiving, I composed a quick list of things that needed to be taken care of. No real big changes, more practical if anything else. Installing mirrors, getting the turn indicators fixed, flux capacitor, and so on. And putting one of the hub cabs back on.
Back at Ford's Only
Late in October I get another call. The male parental unit decided to clean the garage out of the blue. And I seriously mean clean the garage. He made enough room so the two car garage can now have two cars in it. That was incredible news. And the tire covers that were just bought now have even more important job: protecting the wheels and tire from dog "pee pee".
Back at Ford's Only
Monday, January 30, 2012
Before Chicago
Since my birthday was coming up soon, I was able to pick one part that I can put on the car. Not much thinking was involved in this decision. My friend, Gerry (previously mentioned), had some tri-y headers that I have had my eye on for a while. I got the money from the family and drove over to get those headers. There they were and then they were mine. Too my further surprise, Gerry picked up a steering wheel from a swap meet that is meant for my car. It's the right color red, original manufacturing, and I can get it in exchange for the wooden steering wheel on my car. That transaction will have to wait.
One day before I head back to Illinois I went back to Donut Derelicts. While there I met an incredibly nice man who was also a Mustang enthusiast, named Terry. He had a 1966 Coupe that was all done and it looked pretty darn good. I was telling Terry my plans for making the car better and he said that he could give me some parts that could really help me out. He would give me his Edelbrock Performer Aluminum Intake and Aluminum Valve Covers for free!
But I was flying out the next day, so that would have to wait until I got back from Illinois.
One day before I head back to Illinois I went back to Donut Derelicts. While there I met an incredibly nice man who was also a Mustang enthusiast, named Terry. He had a 1966 Coupe that was all done and it looked pretty darn good. I was telling Terry my plans for making the car better and he said that he could give me some parts that could really help me out. He would give me his Edelbrock Performer Aluminum Intake and Aluminum Valve Covers for free!
But I was flying out the next day, so that would have to wait until I got back from Illinois.
August 2011
Now that the car was safe to drive, I drove it everywhere! Just as any kid with a new toy would. I stayed in Orange County, I didn't want to push the car too hard. People would look at me when I go past on the highways. I had one problem with all these looks: as the pictures may reveal my car is not the most visually appealing. On the flip side I have America's favorite body style of the Mustang (consensus of people I have talked to).
My favorite place to drive the car is to a donut store on saturday mornings. It's called Donut Derelicts, on the corner of Magnolia and Adams Ave. Every saturday morning whole bunch of old guys show up in their hot rods to get donuts and talk car with other motorheads. I like checking out other people's rides and learning about what I can do to my own. I've actually made some friends and met plenty of good people.
When I am finally able to go, I was very curious to see what the reaction would be. It was a very pleasant experience, lots of folks were checking out the car. Fastback Mustangs always attract attention and mine was no exception (even though it's not finished). One feature of my car that is always shocking to any Mustang guru is the bench seat. I've come to learn that only 5% of Mustangs ever built have bench seats.
Parked next to me is 08 Mustang and 67 Galaxie 7 Litre (rarish car).
After the donut store, my dad and I decided to go to the beach. We wanted to watch the waves before I head back to Chicago.
My favorite place to drive the car is to a donut store on saturday mornings. It's called Donut Derelicts, on the corner of Magnolia and Adams Ave. Every saturday morning whole bunch of old guys show up in their hot rods to get donuts and talk car with other motorheads. I like checking out other people's rides and learning about what I can do to my own. I've actually made some friends and met plenty of good people.
When I am finally able to go, I was very curious to see what the reaction would be. It was a very pleasant experience, lots of folks were checking out the car. Fastback Mustangs always attract attention and mine was no exception (even though it's not finished). One feature of my car that is always shocking to any Mustang guru is the bench seat. I've come to learn that only 5% of Mustangs ever built have bench seats.
After the donut store, my dad and I decided to go to the beach. We wanted to watch the waves before I head back to Chicago.
Early July
I did finish polishing the rest of the wheels and they looked very good. One of my fellow motorheads says that wheels can make a POS into something worth looking at.
Now that the wheels were all taken care of, it was time to make the car safe to drive. After I had accumulated enough funds it was time to rebuild the front end. My dad and I took the mustang to Fords Only. The owner has always treated us well and does exceptional quality on all his work. We dropped the car off and let him do his thing. One of the most important things I've learned: never call to ask if it's done, he'll call me. Below is all the old equipment that was on the car, most of that is original to the car.
I got the call, all done. When my dad and I arrived the car was still on the lift, he wanted to show us all the improvements that were done. Replacement of springs, shocks, control arms, motor mount, and too many things for me to remember off the top of my head. While the car was having the front end, he put new brake pads on the front discs. He told me that when I need to service my brakes, I'll need to replace the rotors as well.
Look at those new parts! He even painted some of the parts to make it go with the car.
Now that the wheels were all taken care of, it was time to make the car safe to drive. After I had accumulated enough funds it was time to rebuild the front end. My dad and I took the mustang to Fords Only. The owner has always treated us well and does exceptional quality on all his work. We dropped the car off and let him do his thing. One of the most important things I've learned: never call to ask if it's done, he'll call me. Below is all the old equipment that was on the car, most of that is original to the car.
I got the call, all done. When my dad and I arrived the car was still on the lift, he wanted to show us all the improvements that were done. Replacement of springs, shocks, control arms, motor mount, and too many things for me to remember off the top of my head. While the car was having the front end, he put new brake pads on the front discs. He told me that when I need to service my brakes, I'll need to replace the rotors as well.
Look at those new parts! He even painted some of the parts to make it go with the car.
It's been too long
It is now 2012 and I have not been updating my blog whatsoever. I shall attempt to update it as best as I can.
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