I will use this thread as a catch all for updates regarding my latest acquisition: Tom's Project 79. The car is not yet in my possession, but it should be here on Tuesday.
For a detailed description and thread of the build:
Quoted from Tom's RR thread, with some modifications:
It's a pretty complete car to start with; most folks would call it done. But there are some small issues I'm aware of, and I'm sure I will find some more.
I know the electric fans aren't working, there is an issue with th stereo and a/c compressor, and it needs to be tuned.
Currently the car is carbureted; there are a few EFI pieces left, but Tom sold most of them. So I am left with the dliemma of going back to EFI, or sticking with the carburetor. I'm still very much on the fence, but I'm actually thinking going back to EFI would be cheaper. Primarily because if I choose to stay with the carb, I'll probably do something serious with the fuel and ignition systems, in preparation for a more performance based engine down the road. I have a complete '91 HO (with complete harness, including the mass air stuff) to scavenge some parts from, as well as a complete and running '88 5.0 CV parts car that I can steal harness pieces from. The fuel lines have been cut, but that can easily be fixed. I'd need and intake, tb, EGR spacer, TV cable and some other odds and ends.
I really just want to get the car reliable and running right, and then I'll start some of my own 'changes'. I have a laundry list going already.
In no particular order (some of these are just thoughts or questions):
-Get it reliable as is. Fix the stereo and compressor gremlins.
-Put a stock mustang catted H on it to get it through emissions. Then take it off. It only has to pass this time, because the next time the reg. has to be renewed, it will be over 25 years old and exempt.
-Replace rear axle shafts, bearings, and seals. The car has repair bearings, which I'm not a fan of. I have a pair of mint axles, so I may use them. I'll add a rear girdle when I do the axles.
-Fan. The current e-fans are not working. I may remove them and put on a mechanical fan just so I can drive the car. But eventually I'll probably go with a Mk VIII piece.
-Ignition system. This depends on if I go back to EFI, or leave it carbed. I want it reliable, whatever I do.
-Fuel system. Same as Ignition. I am picky as hell about the way stuff looks. I will run all new lines if I am not happy with the form and functionality. If I stay carbed, I am planning an Aeromotive pump, filter and regulator, all new lines, and a returnless syetm. I'll have to make a pick-up.
-Wiring. Anything that gets done will be wrapped in BLACK convoluted tubing, and look stock.
-Deep transmission pan, and complete fluid/ filter change.
-Improved valve covers. I want something unique, but subtle. Maybe plain aluminum, powdercoated black. Maybe some FRPP black crinkle.
-Bucket seat swap. I want the minty blue velour bucket seats from my '88 in this car.
-Stereo. This is obviously low on the totem pole. I'm not a big music guy, so its probably going to be 'simplified.'
-Exhaust. Also down the line. But loud exhaust is my signature.
-Detailage. It will look good underneath, up top, and everywhere in between.
Also, I am a stick shift mang. This car has a beautiful Brian automatic in it, which will stay for the short term. But I'm already looking at transmission options, and they all involve a 'select-your-own-gear' option.
I will not be daily driving this car. Its going to be stored inside during the winter, under a cover, in a dry garage. I am working on year round enclosed storage. By the spring, my Dad's shop should be pretty clear, so it'll probably live there.
I'm stoked to have this car, and look forward to spending my time and money on it. I really like the fact that its a tudor, as they are uncommon as hell around here, and I'll feel better dumping my cash on a unique 2 door, than I did spending money on an old police car. Plus, it's an '87. And we all know that was the greatest year ever, just because its my birth year.
I'll update this thread when I can, and I'd ask folks to feel free to post any comments they may have here. I'll take any suggestions, etc.
For a detailed description and thread of the build:
Quoted from Tom's RR thread, with some modifications:
BODY:
-All rocker/wheelwell trim/emblems deleted
-Vinyl Top Delete, along with roof strip and trims
-Emblem delete
-Repaint in 2008 BMW Alpine White
-NOS Chrome Grille, Front Bumper, Headlight Bezels, Hood Ornament, Door Handles, Dew Wipes, Mirrors, etc...
-16" 2005 V6 Mustang wheels
-215/65R16 BF Goodrich tires
-1979 LTD Clear lenses
-Hella headlights
SUSPENSION:
-98-2002 Suspension/Brakes/Steering Box
-Energy Suspension
-Late model rear disc brakes
-Energy suspension bushings throughout, including trans and bodymounts
-925# Springs front, 225# springs rear
-KYB Gas-a-just shocks all around
-PI rear swaybar/stock front swaybar
Engine/Drivetrain:
-1997 Ford Explorer 5.0 longblock
-.020 over, fresh rebuild
-GT40P heads cleaned up, decked for 9.5:1
-HO Cam
-1.7 Crane Roller Rockers
-Ford Motorsports Ceramic Coated Headers
-Offroad H pipe
-Summit Polished Stainless Steel Mufflers
-Dynomax 2.5" Impala SS Tailpipes
-Rebuilt AOD, 2000 Stall converter, Hi-Rev Governor/Transgo shift kit
-3.73 rear with 8 clutch traction-lock rebuild
Interior:
-1987 P72 Bucket Seats
-Stewart Warner Gauges
-Eclipse Head Unit
-8 pioneer speakers/2 amps/1480 W Max Total
-140 mph speedometer
-All rocker/wheelwell trim/emblems deleted
-Vinyl Top Delete, along with roof strip and trims
-Emblem delete
-Repaint in 2008 BMW Alpine White
-NOS Chrome Grille, Front Bumper, Headlight Bezels, Hood Ornament, Door Handles, Dew Wipes, Mirrors, etc...
-16" 2005 V6 Mustang wheels
-215/65R16 BF Goodrich tires
-1979 LTD Clear lenses
-Hella headlights
SUSPENSION:
-98-2002 Suspension/Brakes/Steering Box
-Energy Suspension
-Late model rear disc brakes
-Energy suspension bushings throughout, including trans and bodymounts
-925# Springs front, 225# springs rear
-KYB Gas-a-just shocks all around
-PI rear swaybar/stock front swaybar
Engine/Drivetrain:
-1997 Ford Explorer 5.0 longblock
-.020 over, fresh rebuild
-GT40P heads cleaned up, decked for 9.5:1
-HO Cam
-1.7 Crane Roller Rockers
-Ford Motorsports Ceramic Coated Headers
-Offroad H pipe
-Summit Polished Stainless Steel Mufflers
-Dynomax 2.5" Impala SS Tailpipes
-Rebuilt AOD, 2000 Stall converter, Hi-Rev Governor/Transgo shift kit
-3.73 rear with 8 clutch traction-lock rebuild
Interior:
-1987 P72 Bucket Seats
-Stewart Warner Gauges
-Eclipse Head Unit
-8 pioneer speakers/2 amps/1480 W Max Total
-140 mph speedometer
I know the electric fans aren't working, there is an issue with th stereo and a/c compressor, and it needs to be tuned.
Currently the car is carbureted; there are a few EFI pieces left, but Tom sold most of them. So I am left with the dliemma of going back to EFI, or sticking with the carburetor. I'm still very much on the fence, but I'm actually thinking going back to EFI would be cheaper. Primarily because if I choose to stay with the carb, I'll probably do something serious with the fuel and ignition systems, in preparation for a more performance based engine down the road. I have a complete '91 HO (with complete harness, including the mass air stuff) to scavenge some parts from, as well as a complete and running '88 5.0 CV parts car that I can steal harness pieces from. The fuel lines have been cut, but that can easily be fixed. I'd need and intake, tb, EGR spacer, TV cable and some other odds and ends.
I really just want to get the car reliable and running right, and then I'll start some of my own 'changes'. I have a laundry list going already.
In no particular order (some of these are just thoughts or questions):
-Get it reliable as is. Fix the stereo and compressor gremlins.
-Put a stock mustang catted H on it to get it through emissions. Then take it off. It only has to pass this time, because the next time the reg. has to be renewed, it will be over 25 years old and exempt.
-Replace rear axle shafts, bearings, and seals. The car has repair bearings, which I'm not a fan of. I have a pair of mint axles, so I may use them. I'll add a rear girdle when I do the axles.
-Fan. The current e-fans are not working. I may remove them and put on a mechanical fan just so I can drive the car. But eventually I'll probably go with a Mk VIII piece.
-Ignition system. This depends on if I go back to EFI, or leave it carbed. I want it reliable, whatever I do.
-Fuel system. Same as Ignition. I am picky as hell about the way stuff looks. I will run all new lines if I am not happy with the form and functionality. If I stay carbed, I am planning an Aeromotive pump, filter and regulator, all new lines, and a returnless syetm. I'll have to make a pick-up.
-Wiring. Anything that gets done will be wrapped in BLACK convoluted tubing, and look stock.
-Deep transmission pan, and complete fluid/ filter change.
-Improved valve covers. I want something unique, but subtle. Maybe plain aluminum, powdercoated black. Maybe some FRPP black crinkle.
-Bucket seat swap. I want the minty blue velour bucket seats from my '88 in this car.
-Stereo. This is obviously low on the totem pole. I'm not a big music guy, so its probably going to be 'simplified.'
-Exhaust. Also down the line. But loud exhaust is my signature.
-Detailage. It will look good underneath, up top, and everywhere in between.
Also, I am a stick shift mang. This car has a beautiful Brian automatic in it, which will stay for the short term. But I'm already looking at transmission options, and they all involve a 'select-your-own-gear' option.
I will not be daily driving this car. Its going to be stored inside during the winter, under a cover, in a dry garage. I am working on year round enclosed storage. By the spring, my Dad's shop should be pretty clear, so it'll probably live there.
I'm stoked to have this car, and look forward to spending my time and money on it. I really like the fact that its a tudor, as they are uncommon as hell around here, and I'll feel better dumping my cash on a unique 2 door, than I did spending money on an old police car. Plus, it's an '87. And we all know that was the greatest year ever, just because its my birth year.
I'll update this thread when I can, and I'd ask folks to feel free to post any comments they may have here. I'll take any suggestions, etc.
Attached Files
) - Vicky - 1987 LTD Crown Victoria: 17x8 Gunmetal Gray Coys C-5 wheels, 235/55-17 Falken Ziex ZE-502 tires. 79 LTD Grille, Taillights, and Turn Signals, Blue LED Dash Lights, PI Rear Sway Bar, 140 MPH Speedometer, Dual Exhaust w/ Mustang Headers.
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