Comming Back

[1l243]

In the late 80's when living in CA I had a 1966 Mustang Convertible 289 with automatic. I was lucky then, not knowing anything about vintage mustangs I got a rust free car... Now, I am looking again. I am aware of the potential rust areas. Should you assume if no repair has been done the cowl area will probably have problems? How far would you go looking for rust on a potential purchase probing for rust?

What about a 64 1/2. I know they have the smaller v8 and generator, would I be better off to stay with a 65 or 66?

Any input would be appreciated...

[Bucket Lister]

Rust is the #1 determining factor in purchasing any vintage car. Mustangs are as susceptible as any other model. Don't buy a mustang (or anything else) on price alone. Even minor rust is expensive and time consuming to repair.

If you aren't skilled at scoping a car out for rust, hire someone that is. Its worth it. There have been many VMF members that impulse bought a car, then found out much later that it was too far gone to restore. CAVEAT EMPTOR.

[datac]

If you want an early car, I wouldn't worry whether it's a 64.5, 65 or 66. I'd just buy the cleanest, most rust-free car I could afford. As easy as it is to check the cowl for leaks it isn't worth guessing about its condition.

The 5-gauge cluster in the '66 is nice, but the Falcon-style cluster in the others is kind of cool looking, too, IMO. Alternators are superior to generators but both will do the job just fine, unless you're looking to build a thumpmobile to share with your neighbors.

[md02geist]

Originally Posted by Bucket Lister

Rust is the #1 determining factor in purchasing any vintage car. Mustangs are as susceptible as any other model. Don't buy a mustang (or anything else) on price alone. Even minor rust is expensive and time consuming to repair.

If you aren't skilled at scoping a car out for rust, hire someone that is. Its worth it. There have been many VMF members that impulse bought a car, then found out much later that it was too far gone to restore. CAVEAT EMPTOR.

Careful who you hire too. The supposed "expert hot rod" guy I hired was a piece of !%@!# who missed things like no brake lights, broken gear synchro, etc. I swear the guy just walked around it once and then said it was fine.