Fox T-Bird/Cougar Forums

General => User Rides => Topic started by: 5.0 tbird on July 15, 2019, 10:21:51 PM

Title: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on July 15, 2019, 10:21:51 PM
What's up everyone it's been a couple days! I've just been living family life, working, and playing with fox Fords.

And my latest project is this 1984 Thunderbird with a 3.8 v6 and C5.

(https://i.imgur.com/Hbaac59.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ZuCmmKP.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Y0YP5zM.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Q0tXcqW.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/vMGJ4n0.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/yJlb9Mc.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/BdaEOUI.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/matZvYe.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ExaEFc0.jpg)

It's pretty clean, runs and drives good. I drove it 20 miles back home. It has a small rust spot behind the back wheel on the passenger side, but the front frame rails and floor pans are still good.

I have a complete drivetrain out of a wrecked 89 Mustang 5.0 convertible that I'm gonna swap into this bird. The engine is already carbureted with a Edelbrock Performer intake and Edelbrock 600 cfm 4bbl with a TCI cable linkage for the AOD. I'm planning on swapping the E7 heads for a set of GT40s I have laying around.

I have a few questions about this swap starting out

The 8.8 rear end from the 89 Mustang will work if I just swap the tbird axles and drums on it correct?

I'm planning on running  a duraspark ignition. I have a 1985 Mustang distributor and a blue connector duraspark box, but how do I need to wire this up in this car since it came with TFI ignition? Is there a diagram?

Also can I use a driveshaft from a Tbird with an AOD and does it have to be from a 5.0 or will a V6 AOD driveshaft work too?
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Clayton on July 16, 2019, 05:41:38 AM
The rear should swap straight over without pulling anything off either of them. They're both 4lug with 9" drums and the v6 aod driveshaft should work to

Looks like a pretty nice start to a fun project!
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on July 16, 2019, 08:44:42 AM
The Mustang rear axle housing is the same as that in the TBird, but you will need to swap the axles/brakes from the TBird rear to get the correct width. We have a sticky post about this in the "Drivetrain" section.

On the brakes, the internals are the same, but either the backing plates or drums are different to make up for the extra length from the axles. I think it's the drums.  (It's been WAAAAAY too long since I messed with rear drums on one of these to remember).

Just check your DS length. The C5 one may be too long.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Aerocoupe on July 16, 2019, 11:56:19 AM
Swap the 8.8 out of the Mustang into the Bird and get the correct offset wheels to match the Mustang rear end.  It will move the wheels inboard 0.75" on each side and you can see this by dropping a plumb bob off the top of the rear fender and measure back to the center of the existing wheel on the existing rear end.  Install the Mustang 8.8 and put your stock wheel back on and do the plumb bob again and that will tell you exactly how far in the wheel has moved.  From this you should be able to select the correct wheels.  If you want to go five lug then get the axles out from a 94-98 Mustang V8 or V6 rear end and that will swap you over to five lug, disc brakes, and it will just about be the same width as the stock Bird rear end (+/- a 1/16").

Gut the EEC-III out of the car and start over on wiring the new motor.  This is what I did on my '83 with the 351W and it is carbed with an MSD ignition and distributor.

Put the motor and trans in the car from the Mustang.  Put the car up on jack stands such that the suspension (front and back) is loaded and also safe to work under.  A four post lift is the best but you will need to make these decisions based on your safety.  Install the yolk from the drive shaft into the trans such that it is bottomed out on the tail housing seal. Measure back from the center of where the U-joint installs into the yolk to the face of the  on the rear end that the DS bolts to.  Whatever this measurement is you want a minimum of 3/4" less than that on the length of your DS.  This allow for compression into the trans and for the yolk to slide back out of the trans for rebound.  This is how the shop that built my aluminum DS told me to do it and it worked great.  Here is a site that a lot of folks trust to build custom shafts and how they want you to measure for a DS:

https://www.dennysdriveshaft.com/how_to_measure.html
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on July 16, 2019, 08:31:38 PM
Thanks for the help! This is gonna be a low budget production :toothless: so I'm trying to utilize parts from the Mustang where I can. I have the front brakes and spindles so I plan to put those on once I get it back on the road. I'm gonna use the sway bars too. I'm also gonna switch it to a floor shift and find a way to make the Mustang shifter work in the bird. For now, the wheels are gonna be 10 holes. I'll make sure to post updates. I'll probably start with swapping the 8.8 in and work forward.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on July 16, 2019, 09:18:46 PM
If you're going to use the 10-holes, swap the proper TBird axles/brakes into the 8.8. Otherwise it's going to look silly.

You can also avoid the custom-offset wheel route in the future. That is unless you have something special in mind. Mustang wheels are plentiful, though, and if you go 5-lug in the future, you'll have even more (affordable) options.

The '84 is going to be EEC-IV, not ECC-III, but you''ll be able to find the proper power wiring to power your DS module, etc in the harness.

Too bad the Mustang engine is already been carb converted, as you could probably have an easy-ish SEFI swap, as they are both EEC-IV systems.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 13, 2019, 12:52:53 PM
Project is underway!

(http://i.imgur.com/8WESRjq.jpg) (https://imgur.com/8WESRjq)

(http://i.imgur.com/GEAaxTO.jpg) (https://imgur.com/GEAaxTO)

(http://i.imgur.com/TEwOsRb.jpg) (https://imgur.com/TEwOsRb)

Next is to pull the 8.8 and swap the axle shafts.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on October 13, 2019, 04:20:13 PM
 :like:

Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 17, 2019, 10:16:54 PM
More progress today! Got the 8.8" out of the Zephyr, which has the drivetrain from a wrecked 89 Mustang.

(http://i.imgur.com/YyuKVve.jpg) (https://imgur.com/YyuKVve)

(http://i.imgur.com/apom0L8.jpg) (https://imgur.com/apom0L8)

(http://i.imgur.com/tIKNxco.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tIKNxco)

Here are the axle shafts side by side. The left one is the Thunderbird that measures 30" and the right one is the Mustang that measures 29 1/4"

(http://i.imgur.com/Okruvgk.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Okruvgk)

(http://i.imgur.com/Nj6iuhZ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Nj6iuhZ)

The axles side by side. They both measure roughly 54" from the outside of each backing plate.

(http://i.imgur.com/bzQRFGI.jpg) (https://imgur.com/bzQRFGI)

Here is the 8.8" axle with Thunderbird axle shafts.

(http://i.imgur.com/V8by4A9.jpg) (https://imgur.com/V8by4A9)

Next is hanging the axles under the car, making the brakes work, and installing the rear sway bar.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 26, 2019, 10:27:41 PM
Today we resealed the diff covers, hung the 8.8" axle in the Thunderbird and installed the rear sway bar.

(http://i.imgur.com/UeO8SsD.jpg) (https://imgur.com/UeO8SsD)

(http://i.imgur.com/LnMZeuO.jpg) (https://imgur.com/LnMZeuO)

(http://i.imgur.com/tIJ4LZ2.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tIJ4LZ2)

Next up is getting the brake line hooked up and getting some KYB rear shocks for a Thunderbird because the Mustang shocks are too short.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Mikey97D on October 28, 2019, 08:08:00 AM
Coming along nicely!

One other option on the rear shocks is to get a set of Chuck's brackets that allows you to use Mustang shocks so you have more options.  From what i understand Chuck doesn't make them anymore but these guys have been making them off his design:  https://tbirdcougarparts.com/
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on October 28, 2019, 08:58:04 AM
If the shocks that you have are good, just pick up a set of the brackets. The options for "good" shocks in TBird length are slim anyway.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 28, 2019, 08:25:15 PM
Thanks! Looks like the shock brackets are out of stock, but I can get KYBs for the Thunderbird cheap at work.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: mcb82gt on October 29, 2019, 08:45:16 AM
I hated the Gas a Just kybs   Way too harsh for me.  I would get Monroe or Gabriel before them again.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on November 10, 2019, 01:12:22 AM
More progress today! The new shocks are on. We mounted the brake hose bracket to the body and ran a piece of brake line from the passenger side up to the rear hose bracket. Also hung the 7.5 axle in the zephyr so we can roll it around.

(http://i.imgur.com/eV73EUS.jpg) (https://imgur.com/eV73EUS)

(http://i.imgur.com/Liavg9B.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Liavg9B)

(http://i.imgur.com/ems8DMg.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ems8DMg)

(http://i.imgur.com/QelJsjF.jpg) (https://imgur.com/QelJsjF)

(http://i.imgur.com/Deua5lR.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Deua5lR)

(http://i.imgur.com/0JIkKzq.jpg) (https://imgur.com/0JIkKzq)

(http://i.imgur.com/FpuVxh5.jpg) (https://imgur.com/FpuVxh5)

(http://i.imgur.com/gSGEFF1.jpg) (https://imgur.com/gSGEFF1)

Also where is the resistor wire for the fuel pump? I unwrapped the wiring from the trunk to the fuel tank, but I didn't see it or I missed it. Is it in the trunk?

(http://i.imgur.com/YpyAY4T.jpg) (https://imgur.com/YpyAY4T)

(http://i.imgur.com/Nb0oIjR.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Nb0oIjR)

Next is putting the brakes back together and bleeding them. Then we start pulling motors!
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: QUICKSHIFT on November 10, 2019, 07:40:10 PM
My understanding is that the resistance wire is the ground wire from the in tank pump.  The link below may give you some options for brake upgrades. My personal results were posted in post #138.

https://forums.corral.net/threads/actual-stopping-distance-reduction-with-73mm-front-caliper-upgrade.712809/page-7
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on November 13, 2019, 07:20:05 PM
Little more progress today. We got the brakes shoes back together and bled, and I did some more searching for the fuel pump resistor wire. I unwrapped the fuel pump wires in the trunk and didn't see anything like a resistor wire. So I grabbed a voltmeter to check and see the voltage going to the fuel pump. I checked it in the trunk and under the car, and I had 13 volts on both not running, but with a battery charger hooked up so I'm thinking this car has no resistor wire for the fuel pump.

(http://i.imgur.com/nQ31mhe.jpg) (https://imgur.com/nQ31mhe)

(http://i.imgur.com/drjNW5u.jpg) (https://imgur.com/drjNW5u)

(http://i.imgur.com/RAFF2Z9.jpg) (https://imgur.com/RAFF2Z9)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Aerocoupe on November 15, 2019, 11:38:27 AM
So on the 73mm piston front brake calipers...my personal opinion and experience is to run away from this "upgrade".  This was done on the SVO Mustangs as well as the Lincoln Mark VII's.  You will need a different MC in that these calipers require a 1-1/8" bore MC and will also require some kind of manual proportioning valve to tune the brake bias.  For all of the cost, effort, and time it is simply not worth the minimal gain over the 60mm stock 87-93 5.0 caliper.  You can buy really good brake pads and gain more braking for the $$$ that way than going the 73mm swap.

Save your $$$ and when you can afford it switch to 5 lug via a 94-98 V6/GT swap utilizing 99-2004 V6/GT front calipers.  The gains here are as follows:
Rear disc brakes
Larger front rotors and twin 44mm piston front calipers
The 94-98 V6 and GT rear axles are the exact same axles and will fit your existing 8.8 housing.
Rotor, caliper, and brake pad selection is excellent vs. the Fox garbage
Wheel selection is light years ahead of the Fox vintage stuff
The front wheel bearing hub assembly allow you to swap rotors and not have to mess with the bearings.
If you are willing you can swap the ABS from the Mustang over to your car.  I did it on my '93 Coupe and what a difference letting the ABS modulate the brakes in a panic stop versus "I can out brake and ABS system with my foot"...bullshiznit.

There are several write ups on the SN95 brake swap on here so do a little research.  You can have decent brakes with the 11" Fox front rotors and drum brakes out back but if you swap over to the SN95 gear you will notice a HUGE braking improvement.  There is physically no way to make a Fox brake system out perform the SN95 brakes, period.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on November 24, 2019, 06:43:48 PM
Nearly got the motor pulled yesterday!

(http://i.imgur.com/rXOStsS.jpg) (https://imgur.com/rXOStsS)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZRMcqaZ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ZRMcqaZ)

(http://i.imgur.com/cdyBh41.jpg) (https://imgur.com/cdyBh41)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on November 29, 2019, 01:08:57 AM
Finished getting the motor pulled today

(http://i.imgur.com/JpcOVA3.jpg) (https://imgur.com/JpcOVA3)

(http://i.imgur.com/pp1Oagf.jpg) (https://imgur.com/pp1Oagf)

(http://i.imgur.com/Vz874Ve.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Vz874Ve)

(http://i.imgur.com/sb8zVbD.jpg) (https://imgur.com/sb8zVbD)

(http://i.imgur.com/6whRYos.jpg) (https://imgur.com/6whRYos)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Vintage on November 30, 2019, 02:18:51 PM
 :headbang:   Where's the chalk outline around the car and all the crime scene tape?  Looks like a slaughter under there with all that trans blood puddled up under the drain pan.  Drain pan?!  We dont use no stinkin drain pan for stinky old atf !  :thefinger:

Nuthin better than working under a car with atf soaked kitty litter to massage and soothe your achy back and replentish the essential oils in your hair..ahhh!   :toothless:

Whats goin in there to replace the mighty 3.8 ??   :popcorn:
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Mikey97D on December 02, 2019, 10:19:38 AM
Vintage - that just brought back a flood of memories.  Literally.  In the hair, the smell.  ugh.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on December 07, 2019, 11:51:38 PM
Did some work today getting the Tbird ready before we drop the V8 in. I removed all of the column shift linkage, tube, rods, and deleted the gear indicator from the gauge cluster. I still need to deal with the hole in the top column cover either with a floor shift column cover or some way to cover the hole. While I did that Dad removed the front sway bar and the power steering hoses from the rack since we'll be replacing them with Mustang parts.

(http://i.imgur.com/ZwMETy3.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ZwMETy3)

(http://i.imgur.com/HtyO1uI.jpg) (https://imgur.com/HtyO1uI)

(http://i.imgur.com/B9SUdVy.jpg) (https://imgur.com/B9SUdVy)

(http://i.imgur.com/s3Nd599.jpg) (https://imgur.com/s3Nd599)

(http://i.imgur.com/6vpG24n.jpg) (https://imgur.com/6vpG24n)

(http://i.imgur.com/e6X3gXh.jpg) (https://imgur.com/e6X3gXh)

(http://i.imgur.com/0Yv6Kei.jpg) (https://imgur.com/0Yv6Kei)

(http://i.imgur.com/ODEZpHR.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ODEZpHR)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on December 13, 2019, 04:56:19 PM
Removed the fuel pump from the frame rail and replaced it with a 12" section of metal line and held it in with new fuel line clips
After that we pushed the Tbird out of the car port and brought the Zephyr in so we can start pulling the motor out of it.

(http://i.imgur.com/LPwi9SJ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/LPwi9SJ)

(http://i.imgur.com/94d2fPF.jpg) (https://imgur.com/94d2fPF)

(http://i.imgur.com/6qr9u9O.jpg) (https://imgur.com/6qr9u9O)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZejjvzM.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ZejjvzM)

(http://i.imgur.com/NztiidR.jpg) (https://imgur.com/NztiidR)

(http://i.imgur.com/rnY5BLo.jpg) (https://imgur.com/rnY5BLo)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 13, 2019, 06:48:39 PM
Nice! Love the cluster nice, looks so much nicer without a gear indicator in there. And I didn't know those quick-disconnect steel lines existed...that's an awesome solution.

BTW, if you are sticking with the stock steering wheel but want one in better shape, let me know. I have a leather wrapped one in that color, really good condition. The 1984 A-frame wheels are unique so I'm always trying to stock up on them when I can.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on December 14, 2019, 01:34:43 PM
What's happening with the Mercury?
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on December 14, 2019, 10:27:34 PM
Nice! Love the cluster nice, looks so much nicer without a gear indicator in there. And I didn't know those quick-disconnect steel lines existed...that's an awesome solution.

BTW, if you are sticking with the stock steering wheel but want one in better shape, let me know. I have a leather wrapped one in that color, really good condition. The 1984 A-frame wheels are unique so I'm always trying to stock up on them when I can.

Thanks, I was hoping the line wouldn't be too long since 12" is the shortest you can get, but it fit pretty well. I'm probably gonna be going with a Grant wood rim steering wheel or I might clean this one up and put a blue Superior Sport Grip cover on it like I had on my Cougar we'll see.


I might keep it around for a different project later on or I might sell it to a buddy who's wanting to buy it and build it into a race car.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on December 26, 2019, 11:45:17 PM
It was almost 70 here today so we took advantage of it and got the 302 pulled out of the Zephyr. This is what is going in the Thunderbird. It's a 89 Mustang 302 HO with an Edelbrock Performer 289 intake, Edelbrock 600 cfm carb, and a 1985 Mustang 302 4 bbl distributor. The trans is an AOD also from the Mustang.

(http://i.imgur.com/khoMDez.jpg) (https://imgur.com/khoMDez)

(http://i.imgur.com/919v8DM.jpg) (https://imgur.com/919v8DM)

(http://i.imgur.com/RMDSdrr.jpg) (https://imgur.com/RMDSdrr)

(http://i.imgur.com/g5E9URo.jpg) (https://imgur.com/g5E9URo)

(http://i.imgur.com/jw8z8qS.jpg) (https://imgur.com/jw8z8qS)

(http://i.imgur.com/w4RV4Oi.jpg) (https://imgur.com/w4RV4Oi)

(http://i.imgur.com/cMfEQ6b.jpg) (https://imgur.com/cMfEQ6b)

(http://i.imgur.com/zd6trvZ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/zd6trvZ)

(http://i.imgur.com/pjZtOg9.jpg) (https://imgur.com/pjZtOg9)

(http://i.imgur.com/H1JhBSi.jpg) (https://imgur.com/H1JhBSi)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Clayton on December 27, 2019, 12:28:52 AM
Looks great! You planning on going factory floor shift?
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on December 27, 2019, 10:54:59 AM
Looks great! You planning on going factory floor shift?

Thanks! Yea, except it's gonna be a Mustang floor shifter. That's what I'll be doing next time is getting the shifter installed.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Clayton on December 27, 2019, 03:45:32 PM
Right on man! I was gonna offer up mine from my 88 sport. I'm just about to pull it within the next few days
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: softtouch on January 01, 2020, 08:02:43 PM
I'm planning on running  a duraspark ignition. I have a 1985 Mustang distributor and a blue connector duraspark box, but how do I need to wire this up in this car since it came with TFI ignition? Is there a diagram?
The TFI and Duraspark coils have different primary coil resistances. So use the Zephyr coil.
The Duraspark requires an external ballast for the coil. The TFI does the coil current regulation on EEC IV.
Rockauto.com shows the same 61" ballast resistor wire used on all three engines used in 80 Zephyrs.

Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on January 01, 2020, 11:01:03 PM
Thanks for the info! The Zephyr does have the resistor wire, but I think I'm gonna use a ballast resistor with a mounting bracket on the Tbird.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Aerocoupe on January 02, 2020, 09:39:12 AM
The fuel lines are unfortunately right where the passenger ler will run and you may experience some plastic fuel line melt.  At least that was my experience with my '83 when I converted it to a 5 spd and dual exhaust.  It did not fail but I was working on the car and noticed the lines looked funny.  Probably would have gone much longer but I am not a fan of fires under cars.  I simply wrapped the fuel lines in header wrap with the stainless ties and it stayed that way for over five years at which point I converted the car to a carbed 302 and ran all new fuel lines and routed them away from the exhaust.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on January 19, 2020, 01:11:05 PM
Winter weather has been slowing progress on the Bird working in a carport. Last weekend was a bust with sleet and snow. Yesterday was still cold, but at least it was sunny so we pulled most of the parts we need from the Zephyr. I'm pretty sure the only thing left is the front struts.

(http://i.imgur.com/HgIQ9G5.jpg) (https://imgur.com/HgIQ9G5)

Parts we pulled from the Zephyr yesterday:

Pioneer 3.5" speakers
Pioneer 6x8" speakers
Mustang shifter
coil
Duraspark box and wiring
Equus oil pressure gauge, temp gauge, voltmeter
Sunpro Tachometer
speedometer gear
throttle cable
headlight bulbs
Mustang power steering hoses
Mustang GT front sway bar

Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on February 01, 2020, 08:14:37 PM
Got the Mustang floor shifter installed today! I used a shifter trim from a manual Turbo Coupe and improvised with some dense foam to fill in the gap until I come up with a more permanent solution, but I think it looks right at home. All that's left now is installing the front sway bar and power steering hoses then we can drop the motor in.

(http://i.imgur.com/KPxCHNv.jpg) (https://imgur.com/KPxCHNv)

(http://i.imgur.com/INenqSr.jpg) (https://imgur.com/INenqSr)

(http://i.imgur.com/o1JlSqy.jpg) (https://imgur.com/o1JlSqy)

(http://i.imgur.com/6161hal.jpg) (https://imgur.com/6161hal)

(http://i.imgur.com/J9QbEOy.jpg) (https://imgur.com/J9QbEOy)

(http://i.imgur.com/XDf5QOX.jpg) (https://imgur.com/XDf5QOX)

(http://i.imgur.com/hbK6NvC.jpg) (https://imgur.com/hbK6NvC)

(http://i.imgur.com/Vy7lO9x.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Vy7lO9x)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on February 16, 2020, 01:23:03 AM
My Dad got the Mustang front sway bar and the new power steering hoses bolted on the other day, and today we dropped the motor in!

(http://i.imgur.com/k5pcEvC.jpg) (https://imgur.com/k5pcEvC)

(http://i.imgur.com/gOeyB0t.jpg) (https://imgur.com/gOeyB0t)

I also pressure washed the double hump transmission crossmember to get it ready

(http://i.imgur.com/at0JFxX.jpg) (https://imgur.com/at0JFxX)

(http://i.imgur.com/hugdB3M.jpg) (https://imgur.com/hugdB3M)

(http://i.imgur.com/h9k6WZw.jpg) (https://imgur.com/h9k6WZw)

(http://i.imgur.com/SMbyGrA.jpg) (https://imgur.com/SMbyGrA)

(http://i.imgur.com/a4gTRom.jpg) (https://imgur.com/a4gTRom)

(http://i.imgur.com/7rV8WGl.jpg) (https://imgur.com/7rV8WGl)

(http://i.imgur.com/tCnlmFm.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tCnlmFm)

After we got the motor and trans bolted in, we pressed new u joints in the driveshaft and installed it. The driveshaft came from an 87 Cougar 5.0, and it's a nice fit.

(http://i.imgur.com/A1A9tpv.jpg) (https://imgur.com/A1A9tpv)

(http://i.imgur.com/dkVhoqt.jpg) (https://imgur.com/dkVhoqt)

I picked up a few new parts too!

(http://i.imgur.com/Z847lXr.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Z847lXr)

(http://i.imgur.com/dfkcsxo.jpg) (https://imgur.com/dfkcsxo)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Tbird232ci on February 17, 2020, 07:02:43 AM
Making some headway and pretty  quick.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on March 01, 2020, 12:05:56 PM
Yesterday we had great weather; it was 70 degrees and sunny here. So we decided to set in on the exhaust first. The exhaust is a Mac off road H pipe for a Mustang and Dynomax Ultra Flo welded lers with turn downs from the Zephyr.

We also installed the Mustang exhaust brackets, which bolted right on both sides. The Mustang exhaust brackets move the rubber hangers about an inch further toward the back of the car than the Tbird bracket is, but it didn't matter in our case because the exhaust came from the Zephyr which is a longer wheelbase than a Tbird.

The H pipe fit fine, but the lers are gonna need new wire hangers because the wire hangers are too long and too far back so the lers are hanging too low and the rubber hangers are being pulled towards the back of the car by the exhaust. So once we get the car running I'll need to stop by a ler shop and get new wire hangers made. The passenger side ler is an inch away from the fuel lines so hopefully that's far enough away to stop them from getting too hot.

(http://i.imgur.com/q1ELh4j.jpg?1) (https://imgur.com/q1ELh4j)

(http://i.imgur.com/ipWxRqf.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ipWxRqf)

(http://i.imgur.com/3sT6MiF.jpg) (https://imgur.com/3sT6MiF)

(http://i.imgur.com/c0UQO7E.jpg) (https://imgur.com/c0UQO7E)

(http://i.imgur.com/lr1uxzJ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/lr1uxzJ)

(http://i.imgur.com/lPfbHuA.jpg) (https://imgur.com/lPfbHuA)

(http://i.imgur.com/GcnMj5L.jpg) (https://imgur.com/GcnMj5L)

(http://i.imgur.com/YeKHdlS.jpg) (https://imgur.com/YeKHdlS)

(http://i.imgur.com/lMuozaq.jpg) (https://imgur.com/lMuozaq)

I also hooked up the wiring and speedo cable to the transmission. I didn't have to cut the trans harness even though the AOD and C5 use different connectors thanks to a harness from the Zephyr. From the factory, the Zephyr had a 2.3 and a C3 which uses the same neutral safety switch as an AOD. So it came with a short adapter harness from the factory. Tbirds and Mustangs might have the same adapter harness for an AOD or C3 in TCs.

After that I got the Mustang throttle cable installed while Dad hooked up the power steering hoses and put the radiator fan on. We have a fan shroud from an 87 5.0 Cougar, but he installed the Mustang shroud so I'll swap those out next time.

(http://i.imgur.com/YyOG2Ms.jpg) (https://imgur.com/YyOG2Ms)

(http://i.imgur.com/5hCv2pw.jpg) (https://imgur.com/5hCv2pw)

(http://i.imgur.com/MULPsig.jpg) (https://imgur.com/MULPsig)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: bodyman on March 01, 2020, 04:24:24 PM
Maybe something like this around your fuel line would help protect it from the ler. $30 for 3 feet is a bit pricey but better than melted fuel lines. Nice progress, looks like a really solid car.

https://www.thermotec.com/products/sleeving/express-sleeves
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on March 15, 2020, 09:54:01 AM
Well with Coronamania going on seems like a good time to get away and work on the project car!

First thing got the correct fan shroud on. It's from an 87 Cougar 5.0

(http://i.imgur.com/J2TLx2P.jpg) (https://imgur.com/J2TLx2P)

(http://i.imgur.com/EwGktqt.jpg) (https://imgur.com/EwGktqt)

(http://i.imgur.com/Wx8YUxK.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Wx8YUxK)

(http://i.imgur.com/Jvfqs4E.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Jvfqs4E)

(http://i.imgur.com/SJlD3mm.jpg) (https://imgur.com/SJlD3mm)

Then I took ya'lls advice and wrapped the fuel lines in DEI cool tape. Better safe than sorry. The pics make it look like it's touching the ler, but it's not.

(http://i.imgur.com/UmlCdhT.jpg) (https://imgur.com/UmlCdhT)

(http://i.imgur.com/SliPA0L.jpg) (https://imgur.com/SliPA0L)

I had some seeping around my rubber valve cover gaskets so I picked up some valve cover tabs and put them on.

(http://i.imgur.com/8HIKvVB.jpg) (https://imgur.com/8HIKvVB)

(http://i.imgur.com/jc9fFKc.jpg) (https://imgur.com/jc9fFKc)

(http://i.imgur.com/fXYc1YM.jpg) (https://imgur.com/fXYc1YM)

I don't know what happened to the switch panel trim piece on this car, but it was bent and half the paint was gone so I peeled it the rest of the way off and painted it with satin black and Dymo labeled the words on it. Then I straightened it out and reattached it. Not the greatest, but it's better than it was until I do something else.

(http://i.imgur.com/ubd7Zh6.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ubd7Zh6)

(http://i.imgur.com/15gKKLc.jpg) (https://imgur.com/15gKKLc)

After that we set in on getting the gauges in. We made three holes in the lighter panel for the gauges, and it tuned out pretty well except we got let down by a wobbly harbor freight hole saw. So they're not exactly even, but they fit and it's good enough for me. The oil pressure and temp gauges are hooked up, and the lights are wired up, but the voltmeter will have to wait until the battery is in so I can find a switched power wire.

(http://i.imgur.com/U1MJFMO.jpg) (https://imgur.com/U1MJFMO)

(http://i.imgur.com/oElOEnl.jpg) (https://imgur.com/oElOEnl)

(http://i.imgur.com/v3JmmJ4.jpg) (https://imgur.com/v3JmmJ4)

(http://i.imgur.com/3teNC7n.jpg) (https://imgur.com/3teNC7n)

(http://i.imgur.com/xtSyCtf.jpg) (https://imgur.com/xtSyCtf)

(http://i.imgur.com/gztSgXX.jpg) (https://imgur.com/gztSgXX)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on March 26, 2020, 11:37:35 PM
No pics, but I did some "social distancing" aka working on the car this week. I finished getting it ready to run. I started it up and it ran for 30 seconds until it ran out of fuel. When I first hooked up the fuel line I ran some fuel out of the line to see which one was the feed line, and it pumped out a quart of fuel in the pan before I turned the key off. The motor isn't getting fuel to the carb, but the pump is running. You can hear it. I thought it might be out of gas so I put a few gallons in, but it didn't make any difference. So I'm thinking the pump might be running, but not pumping fuel or the little hose between the pump and the hanger busted. If I unhook the line and run the pump no fuel comes out now. We gently blew some compressed air back through the line and air blew out of the filler neck.

I ordered a new low pressure pump and strainer and a new filler neck seal so next time I'll be dropping the tank and replacing the pump. Then we'll go from there.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Aerocoupe on March 27, 2020, 09:36:37 AM
My money is on the fuel line between the pump and the pickup/fuel sending unit.  That notoriously rots out and causes this issue.  If you do not know the age of the fuel pump then its a great idea to replace it.  Also, I believe the amp draw on that pump is in the 10A range so make sure you have adequate wiring and all the connections are clean.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on March 31, 2020, 10:21:09 PM
I set in on the fuel pump today and guess what? You were right about the hose! It was decrepit.

(http://i.imgur.com/pf6G21X.jpg) (https://imgur.com/pf6G21X)

(http://i.imgur.com/26elwrp.jpg) (https://imgur.com/26elwrp)

(http://i.imgur.com/CVTSFaE.jpg) (https://imgur.com/CVTSFaE)

(http://i.imgur.com/oAwtF6M.jpg) (https://imgur.com/oAwtF6M)

(http://i.imgur.com/WhD1d5m.jpg) (https://imgur.com/WhD1d5m)

(http://i.imgur.com/gvITZRE.jpg) (https://imgur.com/gvITZRE)

(http://i.imgur.com/IdATllv.jpg) (https://imgur.com/IdATllv)

(http://i.imgur.com/mceetWV.jpg) (https://imgur.com/mceetWV)

After I got the fuel pump done I changed the trans filter and put on a Summit Racing transmission pan with a drain plug.

(http://i.imgur.com/c4TzBwv.jpg) (https://imgur.com/c4TzBwv)

(http://i.imgur.com/fnynHVc.jpg) (https://imgur.com/fnynHVc)

(http://i.imgur.com/jm9JnUo.jpg) (https://imgur.com/jm9JnUo)

(http://i.imgur.com/kN5ZdbK.jpg?1) (https://imgur.com/kN5ZdbK)

(http://i.imgur.com/uEOXNGG.jpg) (https://imgur.com/uEOXNGG)

After that, I started it up and made a short video

Startup video (https://youtu.be/zKARnXyKMnI)

It's running, but there's still plenty of work left to do.

(http://i.imgur.com/I6O1t4M.jpg) (https://imgur.com/I6O1t4M)

(http://i.imgur.com/9CZJyKV.jpg) (https://imgur.com/9CZJyKV)

I also picked up a couple parts from Facebook Marketplace

(http://i.imgur.com/AvUxr16.jpg) (https://imgur.com/AvUxr16)

(http://i.imgur.com/SRtQNZk.jpg) (https://imgur.com/SRtQNZk)

(http://i.imgur.com/0uskBCG.jpg) (https://imgur.com/0uskBCG)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Aerocoupe on March 31, 2020, 11:38:52 PM
Glad it was that simple and sounds good man!
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on April 06, 2020, 11:37:41 PM
Made some more progress on the car!

First thing getting the fuel injection wiring out of the engine bay

(http://i.imgur.com/GSC2y1a.jpg) (https://imgur.com/GSC2y1a)

Finished hooking up the gauges and tach. Then I installed the Grant steering wheel and floor shift column cover. The automatic floor shift shifter bezel I bought didn't fit because it's for an 85 and newer so the manual bezel stays until I can find an automatic shifter bezel for an 84.

(http://i.imgur.com/yidWngx.jpg) (https://imgur.com/yidWngx)

(http://i.imgur.com/4jscEj4.jpg) (https://imgur.com/4jscEj4)

(http://i.imgur.com/raFLnEW.jpg) (https://imgur.com/raFLnEW)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZPX930h.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ZPX930h)

(http://i.imgur.com/Rr1wCYC.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Rr1wCYC)

(http://i.imgur.com/h8d8UlS.jpg) (https://imgur.com/h8d8UlS)

(http://i.imgur.com/QwXJ4Z0.jpg) (https://imgur.com/QwXJ4Z0)

So I found the heater core was leaking so I bypassed it for now. I also did a tune up with new Motorcraft plugs, MSD wires, Accel cap and rotor, and MSD coil.

(http://i.imgur.com/EA53qEs.jpg) (https://imgur.com/EA53qEs)

(http://i.imgur.com/VqMdm8i.jpg) (https://imgur.com/VqMdm8i)

(http://i.imgur.com/6Z4ekNy.jpg) (https://imgur.com/6Z4ekNy)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on April 07, 2020, 06:23:50 PM
Today I installed the center caps and gave the Bird a bath. There's still plenty of work to do, but it's getting there.

Thunderbird 10 holes have a bird on the center caps, but I'm using the center caps from the Mustang parts car so they have the Ford oval. I already have them and the Thunderbird is a Ford so they're good enough for me lol.

(http://i.imgur.com/MxoJ9wD.jpg) (https://imgur.com/MxoJ9wD)

(http://i.imgur.com/Xzv3fhM.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Xzv3fhM)

(http://i.imgur.com/03NBMoe.jpg) (https://imgur.com/03NBMoe)

(http://i.imgur.com/dFt3rM0.jpg) (https://imgur.com/dFt3rM0)

(http://i.imgur.com/RJPViED.jpg) (https://imgur.com/RJPViED)

(http://i.imgur.com/QVKeki5.jpg) (https://imgur.com/QVKeki5)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on April 08, 2020, 05:34:08 AM
I noticed you mentioned the shifter bezel didn’t fit? I never knew they were different in the 83/84 cars? Curious what the difference is.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on April 08, 2020, 08:11:00 AM
I noticed you mentioned the shifter bezel didn’t fit? I never knew they were different in the 83/84 cars? Curious what the difference is.

The 83-84 are straight across the interface with the dash/center console. The 85-88 ones have a slight angle.

Also, I don't think many/any 83-84 auto cars were floor-shift.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Haystack on April 09, 2020, 06:23:37 PM
I've swapped them, they were all used junkyard stuff so who knows if they were original or not. But I pulled a full 83 console with the lights in the side then used my 87 console bits because they were nicer.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on April 12, 2020, 07:23:46 PM
Got the buffer out and hit the paint with polishing compound today.

(http://i.imgur.com/1JpR18f.jpg) (https://imgur.com/1JpR18f)

(http://i.imgur.com/5L2Ezvd.jpg) (https://imgur.com/5L2Ezvd)

(http://i.imgur.com/PxAlqyl.jpg) (https://imgur.com/PxAlqyl)

(http://i.imgur.com/q2cyyzu.jpg) (https://imgur.com/q2cyyzu)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on April 13, 2020, 07:12:05 AM
Car is coming along nicely. Good to see a 4 eye take on a new life. Lol
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on April 14, 2020, 08:04:43 AM
Looking back on your post about the shifter bezel. I’m curious if the bezel from an AOD Mustang (87-93) could work or made to work with the Tbird console part?If I remember correctly the bezel piece can be removed separately from the console piece. I looked at a few pictures and they look close? I think those were installed from the top. Just a thought.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on April 20, 2020, 04:56:31 PM
I replaced the Mac H pipe this weekend because it wouldn't seal at the headers because the s aren't right. The holes for the studs are too narrow so you have to grind the holes out to get them to bolt on. But even then it still leaks so I got a Jegs H pipe, which is similar to a BBK and put it on. It didn't wanna line up at first, but I kept working with it and got it to bolt up and no leaks!

(http://i.imgur.com/5eIdJVp.jpg) (https://imgur.com/5eIdJVp)

I tapped the smog pump tube and plugged it with a 3/8 pipe plug.

(http://i.imgur.com/qv4G3Gj.jpg) (https://imgur.com/qv4G3Gj)

Looking back on your post about the shifter bezel. I’m curious if the bezel from an AOD Mustang (87-93) could work or made to work with the Tbird console part?If I remember correctly the bezel piece can be removed separately from the console piece. I looked at a few pictures and they look close? I think those were installed from the top. Just a thought.

I can say that it will work or at least part of it. The shifter bezel from an 87-93 auto is two pieces the plastic part that snaps on the console and a rubber bezel seal. I decided to try using the Mustang bezel seal with the Thunderbird bezel so I ordered a new bezel seal from LMR. I just took the bezel off and sat the Mustang bezel seal on the shifter and put the Thunderbird bezel back on. It did a pretty good job of filling the gap between the shifter and the Thunderbird bezel so I'm gonna call it good.

(http://i.imgur.com/qqApNFz.jpg) (https://imgur.com/qqApNFz)

(http://i.imgur.com/onqfGDL.jpg) (https://imgur.com/onqfGDL)

(http://i.imgur.com/N1Ypsum.jpg) (https://imgur.com/N1Ypsum)

I also installed my Pioneer speakers. They're a huge improvement over the 35 year old factory speakers!

(http://i.imgur.com/8HD38su.jpg) (https://imgur.com/8HD38su)

(http://i.imgur.com/w4OU74Q.jpg) (https://imgur.com/w4OU74Q)

(http://i.imgur.com/6aiatdZ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/6aiatdZ)

(http://i.imgur.com/Ff3tBCy.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Ff3tBCy)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on May 25, 2020, 10:09:14 PM
This weekend we started work on the next project for the Thunderbird. Since it's starting to get warm we're getting the a/c going!

But before we can put a/c on the car we gotta deal with the leaking heater core so me and Dad tackled it. We also replaced the blower motor while we had the heater box out.

(http://i.imgur.com/zX257Jz.jpg) (https://imgur.com/zX257Jz)

(http://i.imgur.com/fo147Cb.jpg) (https://imgur.com/fo147Cb)

(http://i.imgur.com/W9w4ttp.jpg) (https://imgur.com/W9w4ttp)

(http://i.imgur.com/H5KErlT.jpg) (https://imgur.com/H5KErlT)

(http://i.imgur.com/OxIiGXL.jpg) (https://imgur.com/OxIiGXL)

(http://i.imgur.com/OTmXfov.jpg) (https://imgur.com/OTmXfov)

(http://i.imgur.com/eHRrcVU.jpg) (https://imgur.com/eHRrcVU)

(http://i.imgur.com/umIlk1S.jpg) (https://imgur.com/umIlk1S)

(http://i.imgur.com/RgPawMQ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/RgPawMQ)

(http://i.imgur.com/BBRdpki.jpg) (https://imgur.com/BBRdpki)

(http://i.imgur.com/6tU20Mg.jpg) (https://imgur.com/6tU20Mg)

(http://i.imgur.com/EueRBrZ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/EueRBrZ)

(http://i.imgur.com/kp55XXx.jpg) (https://imgur.com/kp55XXx)

The sleeves on the seat belt receptacles were trashed so while I had the seats out I replaced them with receptacles from a 1986 Mustang that have new sleeves from LMR. They fit on the Tbird seats pretty well. You'll also need the receptacle bolt from the Mustang and just put it through the other direction and bolt it to the Tbird seat.

(http://i.imgur.com/JW6i5dr.jpg) (https://imgur.com/JW6i5dr)

(http://i.imgur.com/LqV5Gcj.jpg) (https://imgur.com/LqV5Gcj)

(http://i.imgur.com/TxXwjzG.jpg) (https://imgur.com/TxXwjzG)

(http://i.imgur.com/nz5gjuf.jpg) (https://imgur.com/nz5gjuf)

(http://i.imgur.com/5kbC8vi.jpg) (https://imgur.com/5kbC8vi)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on May 31, 2020, 12:09:19 AM
Installed the a/c compressor and hoses, and ran hoses to the heater core today. After that we pulled a vacuum on the system to boil it out. Next is charging the a/c and hopefully there will be cold air!

(http://i.imgur.com/tCchDlk.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tCchDlk)

(http://i.imgur.com/AqjsbNx.jpg) (https://imgur.com/AqjsbNx)

(http://i.imgur.com/SRrNBSP.jpg) (https://imgur.com/SRrNBSP)

(http://i.imgur.com/AEHWO8n.jpg) (https://imgur.com/AEHWO8n)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: vinnietbird on May 31, 2020, 08:28:10 AM
Great work!!! You have really been busy with this car. I gotta get a new a/c system done in my car eventually. Impressive work, keep it up.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on May 31, 2020, 09:59:15 AM
You have brought the car a long way. Really nice work. I’m curious if halo head rest will work with your seats?  I’ve always liked the halos and have them in my sport seats.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: mcb82gt on June 01, 2020, 08:49:10 AM
You have brought the car a long way. Really nice work. I’m curious if halo head rest will work with your seats?  I’ve always liked the halos and have them in my sport seats.
I put them on my 88 base seats, I don't see why they wouldn't work on those base seats.  As far as I know. lol
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on June 07, 2020, 06:39:52 PM
Finished up the a/c yesterday. First off, I needed to bypass the WOT cutout relay to get power to the cycling switch. Since the ECM partially controls the a/c, and it's in the dark about what the engine is doing, it won't send power to the cycling switch through the relay. No big deal just gotta remember to turn the a/c off before I hammer it. After that I added oil and freon. It was 98 here yesterday and it was blowing high 40s out the vents so I'm happy.

(http://i.imgur.com/NQaZtEz.jpg) (https://imgur.com/NQaZtEz)

(http://i.imgur.com/3qQRhIY.jpg) (https://imgur.com/3qQRhIY)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on June 18, 2020, 05:11:28 PM
Been working on a few small projects for the Tbird. First off dealing with the dash registers that kept falling and pointing down.

Went to the hardware store and got some neoprene rubber washers and put them on the registers now they stay where you put them.

(http://i.imgur.com/iIeTEHu.jpg) (https://imgur.com/iIeTEHu)

(http://i.imgur.com/oVDoPSm.jpg) (https://imgur.com/oVDoPSm)

(http://i.imgur.com/lkjaRG1.jpg) (https://imgur.com/lkjaRG1)

Then I installed the Edelbrock 14" air cleaner. This is the air cleaner I originally wanted to put on this motor, but it hit the distributor so I took it back and got the 10" air cleaner. But this time I used a 1/2" spacer to get it right above the distributor.

(http://i.imgur.com/tb6203G.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tb6203G)

(http://i.imgur.com/JLcKUkv.jpg) (https://imgur.com/JLcKUkv)

(http://i.imgur.com/UXrZ9f7.jpg) (https://imgur.com/UXrZ9f7)

(http://i.imgur.com/xuHppIn.jpg) (https://imgur.com/xuHppIn)

Finally got my Kenwood stereo installed after I found a radio bezel with the rectangular hole for a modern stereo. I really wanted a bezel without the warning light indicators, but this was all i could find.

(http://i.imgur.com/Teosv0v.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Teosv0v)

(http://i.imgur.com/hrXkLy2.jpg) (https://imgur.com/hrXkLy2)

(http://i.imgur.com/q2LGKKp.jpg) (https://imgur.com/q2LGKKp)

(http://i.imgur.com/ikOX4PD.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ikOX4PD)

(http://i.imgur.com/44Hhhdf.jpg) (https://imgur.com/44Hhhdf)

(http://i.imgur.com/zVZZdOB.jpg) (https://imgur.com/zVZZdOB)

(http://i.imgur.com/SknUFKZ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/SknUFKZ)

(http://i.imgur.com/PVIXOW8.jpg) (https://imgur.com/PVIXOW8)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on June 19, 2020, 06:51:39 AM
You’ve made some great progress on the bird. What’s next on the “to-do” list. Besides drive & enjoy? Lol
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on June 19, 2020, 11:26:32 PM
The next item is probably gonna be resealing the quarter windows because the passenger side is leaking.

I have a set of GT40 heads from a 96 Explorer that I need to take to the head shop and have redone and high lift valve springs installed. Then I can put them on the Bird.

I'm also planning to upgrade the brakes with a set of front brakes from an 87+ 5.0 Mustang. I already have the spindles and calipers.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: mcb82gt on June 22, 2020, 09:30:45 AM
Looks really good!  Nice  work.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on June 30, 2020, 10:31:49 PM
Look what the big brown truck brought today for the Tbird, a set of LRS 16x7 TRX wheels! These are the Mustang style TRX, but they still look good on Tbirds, and 99% of people wouldn't know the difference lol. Now I just gotta get some tires put on them.

(http://i.imgur.com/19xKk0P.jpg) (https://imgur.com/19xKk0P)

(http://i.imgur.com/ChXYLNf.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ChXYLNf)

(http://i.imgur.com/1jNmOcJ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/1jNmOcJ)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: bodyman on July 01, 2020, 06:12:35 PM
Nice, those are going to look good!
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on July 01, 2020, 08:24:55 PM
The Cougar/TBird TRX wheels were better looking IMO, but the std ones aren't too bad.

The original metric tires were TERRIBLE.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on July 02, 2020, 10:25:43 PM
I agree, the Thunderbird TRX was a better looking wheel. Too bad it probably won't ever get reproduced in a 16" like the Mustang TRX. My Dad's '83 Cougar he bought new had them. He told me when the Cougar was pretty new the TRX tires were easy to find but expensive. By the early '90s the tires had to be special ordered, but he kept the TRX wheels on until he traded it in in 1992.

(http://i.imgur.com/YgvJi4L.jpg) (https://imgur.com/YgvJi4L)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on July 03, 2020, 08:13:13 PM
Yeah, my old '84 XR-7 had them. Looked good. Marginal in the dry. Scary as hell in the wet.  :dunno:
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: EricCoolCats on July 03, 2020, 11:07:54 PM
Ever try them in snow?

NOT recommended.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on July 07, 2020, 08:21:47 PM

Yup...
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on February 11, 2021, 05:44:01 PM
Not a whole lot has been happening with the Tbird besides driving it and enjoying it, but here's an update since June.

I wanted to finish the fuel system and utilize the return fuel line since it's not a good idea to dead-head an electric fuel pump. So last October I made a homemade brass low pressure regulator kind of like what user: Walking-Tall on foureyedpride did. It uses a brass set screw with a small hole drilled in it as a pseudo jet to regulate fuel going into the return line. I was able to find all of the fittings pretty easily at the hardware store except the brass set screw. Those are difficult to find. I ended up having to special order some from Fastenal.

(http://i.imgur.com/UKH6zeb.jpg) (https://imgur.com/UKH6zeb)

(http://i.imgur.com/kf29wVx.jpg) (https://imgur.com/kf29wVx)

(http://i.imgur.com/tqPOl7L.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tqPOl7L)

(http://i.imgur.com/UsrrUDe.jpg) (https://imgur.com/UsrrUDe)

(http://i.imgur.com/O1xlvHV.jpg) (https://imgur.com/O1xlvHV)

(http://i.imgur.com/byCbXYM.jpg) (https://imgur.com/byCbXYM)

I also got a new set of Ohtsu 225/55-16 tires for the TRX wheels, and they're on the car now.

(http://i.imgur.com/H0bslqj.jpg) (https://imgur.com/H0bslqj)

(http://i.imgur.com/l6kTjFr.jpg) (https://imgur.com/l6kTjFr)

(http://i.imgur.com/kpW5Zrs.jpg) (https://imgur.com/kpW5Zrs)

(http://i.imgur.com/INEucI9.jpg) (https://imgur.com/INEucI9)

(http://i.imgur.com/u1ui3ob.jpg) (https://imgur.com/u1ui3ob)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZdQpk7W.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ZdQpk7W)

(http://i.imgur.com/PEhgPYU.jpg) (https://imgur.com/PEhgPYU)

I also have everything rounded up to install 11" Mustang front brakes.

(http://i.imgur.com/Kyxeiql.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Kyxeiql)

(http://i.imgur.com/ROV0MVZ.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ROV0MVZ)

(http://i.imgur.com/QmVlFC0.jpg) (https://imgur.com/QmVlFC0)

(http://i.imgur.com/Bq9EN3k.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Bq9EN3k)

(http://i.imgur.com/bNNxCFa.jpg) (https://imgur.com/bNNxCFa)

(http://i.imgur.com/OehddKf.jpg) (https://imgur.com/OehddKf)

(http://i.imgur.com/cXYwezU.jpg) (https://imgur.com/cXYwezU)

(http://i.imgur.com/fSTYegG.jpg) (https://imgur.com/fSTYegG)

(http://i.imgur.com/Rti9Ffu.jpg) (https://imgur.com/Rti9Ffu)

(http://i.imgur.com/K3JnaMi.jpg) (https://imgur.com/K3JnaMi)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZvHTGAI.jpg) (https://imgur.com/ZvHTGAI)

(http://i.imgur.com/2npmCZy.jpg) (https://imgur.com/2npmCZy)

(http://i.imgur.com/5NCXekD.jpg) (https://imgur.com/5NCXekD)

(http://i.imgur.com/01YkThP.jpg) (https://imgur.com/01YkThP)

(http://i.imgur.com/PbSDBem.jpg) (https://imgur.com/PbSDBem)

I got these adapters for the brake lines, but I'm not sure they're the right ones yet.

(http://i.imgur.com/5NCXekD.jpg) (https://imgur.com/5NCXekD)

Front struts for a 94 Mustang GT

(http://i.imgur.com/tdhVoTu.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tdhVoTu)

(http://i.imgur.com/yweCroX.jpg) (https://imgur.com/yweCroX)

(http://i.imgur.com/RzhqFKz.jpg) (https://imgur.com/RzhqFKz)

And finally a set of FMS 3.73 gears. The axle in the Tbird currently has 2.73s so this should make a big difference.

(http://i.imgur.com/gK4c7p7.jpg) (https://imgur.com/gK4c7p7)

(http://i.imgur.com/eix98Yr.jpg) (https://imgur.com/eix98Yr)

(http://i.imgur.com/NEQfNAV.jpg) (https://imgur.com/NEQfNAV)

(http://i.imgur.com/CZdf4vv.jpg) (https://imgur.com/CZdf4vv)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on April 15, 2021, 10:24:53 PM
Picked up my GT40 heads from the machine shop today! I had them rebuild the heads and install a Trick Flow spring kit.

(http://i.imgur.com/QgG216B.jpg) (https://imgur.com/QgG216B)

(http://i.imgur.com/DdsSqkl.jpg) (https://imgur.com/DdsSqkl)

(http://i.imgur.com/0CqWZpN.jpg) (https://imgur.com/0CqWZpN)

(http://i.imgur.com/zqoIVLV.jpg) (https://imgur.com/zqoIVLV)

(http://i.imgur.com/YvEaUXA.jpg) (https://imgur.com/YvEaUXA)

(http://i.imgur.com/H0hOyn3.jpg) (https://imgur.com/H0hOyn3)

(http://i.imgur.com/gnTTpY6.jpg) (https://imgur.com/gnTTpY6)

I also got my gears installed a few weeks ago. Going from 2.73 to 3.73s was exactly what this car needed. The shop said it wouldn't cost any extra labor to rebuild my trac-lok while they did the gear swap so I bought a clutch kit.

(http://i.imgur.com/xUylElc.jpg) (https://imgur.com/xUylElc)

(http://i.imgur.com/UuvucXk.jpg) (https://imgur.com/UuvucXk)

After I got the car back from the shop I swapped out the speedo gear

(http://i.imgur.com/G5kmpPd.jpg) (https://imgur.com/G5kmpPd)

So next up is upgrading the front brakes and putting the heads on.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Mikey97D on April 16, 2021, 07:57:48 AM
Must be getting excited to put everything together.

What size valves are in the heads?  Any porting work done?
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on April 16, 2021, 10:05:19 PM
Must be getting excited to put everything together.

What size valves are in the heads?  Any porting work done?


The heads are stock besides the springs.  Valves sizes are 1.84 intake and 1.54 exhaust
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Beau on April 16, 2021, 10:12:47 PM
GT40 heads are a nice improvement over the E7s, but I'll use aftermarket aluminum heads next time I put together a windsor based Ford. (leaning to a 32v and getting my feet wet in that bigger, deeper pool).

Car looks, you've done a hell of a lot. Enjoy it!
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on June 19, 2021, 11:38:10 PM
Started the 11" brake upgrade last week. I went with 94 Mustang GT front struts that I learned have a shorter top bolt about 1/2" shorter than Thunderbird struts. The nut just barely threads on so I modified the strut mount. I ended up cutting a 1/2" out of the spacer in the strut mount.

(https://i.imgur.com/rBtGNpg.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/SvvN7tA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/pXfBBKT.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/G87oD6D.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/p1LgjBU.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/SvvN7tA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/BifxnU4.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/AoryJUP.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/j2rOfeX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/wNOULL2.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/0s981n5.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/gzlLfwW.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/vuVnVIQ.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9DRYbPN.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/vahkGKA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/tRfF0pF.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/SfwNuox.jpg)

While we were bleeding the brakes I discovered the master cylinder was slowly losing pressure so I replaced it.

(https://i.imgur.com/NMsIl8M.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/kuxsPEA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/WjHFMbD.jpg)

Now it just needs an alignment and that should finish the 11" brake upgrade.

Today, I decided to start tearing down the motor to install my GT40 heads.

(https://i.imgur.com/JLcKUkv.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/la7conC.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/b6fzWh6.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/qUlHEgc.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/1S0WtYI.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/uPnCZ1w.jpg)

Next is to drop the heads on with fresh gaskets and start reassembly
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on June 27, 2021, 07:26:25 PM
Started on reassembly!

(https://i.imgur.com/WF6N5Xy.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/bU8iTbf.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/1O325SM.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/OLO7XX7.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Gkpy0lu.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/yIY9t2v.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/0t4xqLZ.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/57bxxDB.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9I5SI5Z.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/1Eem2AI.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9lRtb9c.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ss8Vkeq.jpg)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on July 01, 2021, 09:41:11 PM
Finished putting it together and fired it up today!

(https://i.imgur.com/ZxGi36S.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/WUqODmd.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/eyN8cOG.jpg)

Also received a visit from the big brown truck.

(https://i.imgur.com/rGalUKR.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/TBRUtxa.jpg)

I picked up a set of the LMR mesh wheels for my Mustang a while back, and I liked them well enough that I got a set for the Thunderbird too. So I'm gonna be listing the TRX wheels for sale soon.

(https://i.imgur.com/eqUcvKs.jpg)

Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 88Slowbird on August 12, 2021, 11:24:36 AM
Still have the TRX wheels? I'd be interested in them for my bird
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 19, 2021, 03:39:17 PM
New wheel pictures?
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on September 24, 2021, 10:02:22 PM
Still have the TRX wheels? I'd be interested in them for my bird

I sold them to a member on foureyedpride.


I'll have pics of the new wheels soon. I just got a set of new tires for them, but I gotta get them mounted and balanced then I'll put them on the Thunderbird. I just got over covid so everything got put on the back burner.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Beau on September 25, 2021, 03:58:16 PM
Nice work!

Yes, covid really can shiznit up one's plans. Kept me from getting a job, but the upside of that is because of the one missed shot at the one place, it put me in a position where I ended up doing something that I really like and pay about .40 more per hour.

I'm still looking for a new (to me) Fox Bird or Mark VII to be a fun car, occasional romp to work in project.

It's out there, just gotta find "the one"..
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: HAVI on October 03, 2021, 12:44:24 PM
NIce!  Someone's been busy.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 20, 2021, 06:01:26 PM
Wheels pics are here!

After I sold the TRX wheels I used that money to buy a new set of 245/45-17 Falken Ziex ze950 a/s tires

(https://i.imgur.com/bD7cT08.jpg)

Then 4 members of our family got covid, and thank God we all survived. My girlfriend's stepdad got it first and it turned into covid pneumonia and sent him to the hospital for 5 days. He was out of work for 6 weeks. Then my girlfriend's mom got it from the stepdad and she got over it within about 3 or 4 days. My girlfriend got it from her mom, and it was pretty much like a bad case of the flu for her. She went back to work after 10 days. I got it from my girlfriend, and it turned into covid pneumonia for me also. I stayed out of the hospital thanks to virtual doctor visits where I got antibiotics and steroids. I was out of work for 3 weeks.

Yesterday I was able to get the tires put on the mesh wheels, and get the mounted on the car.

(https://i.imgur.com/6Iear1n.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9QTs2sw.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/giJnCKJ.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/0r5ZREI.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/xOGOrST.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/0K0SBcD.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/UOOlanj.jpg)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on November 07, 2021, 12:47:35 AM
Well, the bearing in the 60 amp 1g alternator gave out after 41 years. (Yes, it's older than the Thunderbird)  I'd like to see an alternator made in China nowadays last that long! It was also having trouble keeping up with the electrical load from the a/c and headlights especially in traffic. I may be upgrading to electric fans soon too so I decided to upgrade to a 3g 130 amp alternator. I got the kit from Latemodel Restoration Supply with the alternator bracket. You can grind the factory bracket to fit the 130 amp alternator, but for the little extra it costs I'd rather just bolt on a bracket that's made for the 130 amp alternator. The install went smoothly except the alternator bracket doesn't have a threaded hole for the tensioner bolt, and the kit doesn't come with a nut so you need to provide your own nut to attach the belt tensioner. The alternator upgrade made a big difference. It handles the car's electrical loads like it's nothing staying above 13.5 volts at idle in drive with the brakes on and a/c and headlights on high beam. It's no wonder I see so many Mustangs and Thunderbirds with 3g alternator upgrades.

(https://i.imgur.com/TFXqmGg.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/UO99MZ5.jpg?1)

(https://i.imgur.com/wNVjSZf.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/II0v5uH.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Dr1kRBy.jpg)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on November 07, 2021, 07:52:09 AM
Yeah. A 130A seems like a bare minimum these days. I look at the stock alternator on the LTS and cringe.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: mcb82gt on November 08, 2021, 09:36:32 AM
Did the 3G on mine years ago from a yard alternator off a Thunderbird.  Be rocking it for years, truely needed for all our cars.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 03, 2022, 10:58:55 PM
Not much has been happening with the Thunderbird, but here's a small update.

I removed the body mouldings between the wheels because they were peeling up and warped. I also painted the lower body satin black. The speedometer was so worn it was basically useless so I started searching for a good one. The only speedometer I could find was on ebay in Canada. It was a good price too so it arrived 3 weeks later, and now the Thunderbird has a kilometer speedometer. It works good, I just have to read the inside numbers for mph. :giggle: It does have one advantage, in that it goes to 110 mph instead of only 85.  :canada:

(https://i.imgur.com/W3tjq6Q.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/EsQ821M.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/dZGntkx.jpg)

What's next for the Thunderbird.

The rear main seal and transmission tailshaft seal are leaking so those need to be replaced.

I also wanna put in a 3 row aluminum radiator

87-88 TC front struts and strut mounts or caster camber plates so I can replace the strut mounts I had to modify for the Mustang struts.

I also wanna put a cam in the motor at some point.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on October 04, 2022, 09:38:12 AM
I've got one of those speedos for the TC cluster. I've been thinking about using it, for the very same reason you did.

Car looks good!
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Mikey97D on October 05, 2022, 08:00:32 AM
Car is looking good!

I would bet an overlay would not be difficult to reverse the numbers so MPH is easier to see.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Aerocoupe on October 12, 2022, 04:54:00 PM
I have a MPH speedo out of an '83 that you can have if you want it.  Needle is a little faded but you can swap those out.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on July 05, 2023, 04:10:59 PM
Update time! Been busy with work and everything ya'll know how it is. But I did get some work done on the car since last year.

Starting with GTS headlight covers. I'm surprised they still make these, but I'm glad they do.

(https://i.imgur.com/Vr8nXLC.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/kuTsNea.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fpTGWac.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fCVNurj.jpg)

Danco console decal.

(https://i.imgur.com/eR9vUkK.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/TtsVAXc.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/RcMLR85.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/45djmVi.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ERLYWNH.jpg)

I didn't use this timing set because the chain was too long. I got one from SA gear that fit correctly.
(https://i.imgur.com/BXsacd6.jpg)

Factory V8 front springs
(https://i.imgur.com/2IXok8U.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/iYPTahO.jpg)

front strut mounts
(https://i.imgur.com/6GdWyKn.jpg)

New brake and parking brake pedal pads
(https://i.imgur.com/vJjUiRL.jpg)

New fuel pressure gauge
(https://i.imgur.com/0LfbTQI.jpg)

Dorman compression fittings for nylon fuel line. I used them to clean up the fuel lines underhood.
(https://i.imgur.com/C2rpRoW.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/jkxu3AB.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/orkkegh.jpg)

Ball joints. 2 for the Thunderbird and 2 for the Mustang.
(https://i.imgur.com/IDLYFKt.jpg)

This is the install of the v8 front springs, KYB 87-88 Turbo Coupe struts, strut mounts, and ball joints. The passenger spring was broken in 3 pieces. I couldn't even tell it was broken until I went to remove it from the control arm. You can use a standard spring compressor, but everything has to be in the correct spot and lined up just right or it won't work. It took a lot of trial and error, and oiling the spring compressor, and batteries for the impact.
(https://i.imgur.com/uNUUrI7.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/shF2NZG.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/K5sfrlg.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/xEtrM1e.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/DaRmviF.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/SJvvFPB.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/DeZ8Vbo.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/wn69d5M.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/AJLjS3Q.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/0mFYyTe.jpg)

E303 cam install. I used Anderson Motorsports cam install tools. They work great you just have to be careful. Double check everything to make sure they have a good hold on the lifters before you swap out the cam. If you drop a lifter it's gonna be a bad day LOL.

(https://i.imgur.com/jzPuggU.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/sal8LrF.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/CnJCcRX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/iI7Kpiv.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/G3p5t7M.jpg)

You can see the a/c condenser hanging from the hood in this pic.
(https://i.imgur.com/AJxXGxS.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ptZxpCf.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/YTbzegI.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/MtoOP8Y.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/vM3dHvU.jpg)

Back together
(https://i.imgur.com/moLQFNP.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Y9nqWxp.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/pJSNMcw.jpg)

The new front springs and struts raised the front a lot so I bought new rear springs. They raised the back up some, but the front still sat higher than the back so I added some spring locks to the rear. We live on a bad road so I don't mind the car sitting up high.

(https://i.imgur.com/JiNK6tU.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/s3c4Gt7.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/OR9qHyE.jpg)

The last item for this update. Like I said, we live on a bad road so I wanted to get some mud flaps on the car.

You can spend big $ on some nos factory Ford mud flaps, but why when your girlfriend has a Silhouette machine?

$12 a pair on Amazon
(https://i.imgur.com/CWq4kr4.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/sXpvii1.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/UJzcun9.jpg)

Here's some new pics of the car from yesterday at my Dad's on July 4th.

(https://i.imgur.com/N9wDXYr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/yHkubYz.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/OzZVXRN.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/4AYFWvr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/lYuItuH.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/KiLYHA3.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/SO6XGGS.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/zP28D4u.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ejVAYRj.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/a747gir.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/gUZFkIT.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/BUwbojW.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ETEcQLk.jpg)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Mikey97D on July 06, 2023, 01:58:43 PM
Looks great!

I like the looks of cars lowered, i just don't want to drive them in New England.  My car isn't lowered either and I still hit the front air scoop / dam on dips.

May I suggest black floor mats?  There's so much black parts in the interior of our cars I was thinking about swapping mine over from red too. My red ones always look messy even after I vacuum them.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Aerocoupe on July 06, 2023, 03:20:33 PM
It looks like the rear springs are not installed correctly.  The end of the pigtail on the bottom of the spring should point to the driver's side on both springs.

https://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/index.php?action=dlattach;sa=tmpattach;attach=post_tmp_1511_d86fcdcde77acf81a0619b3c5f8c6654;topic=41162
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Beau on July 06, 2023, 07:42:17 PM
Lookin' good. Little too high for me, but it's your car..roads here are  too, my Tbird was always sing stuff, the little I drove it around...

Didn't know if you had ever done the control arm bushings (front and/or rear)....but if you do, make sure the suspension is in a compressed state, as though the weight of the car was on the wheels when torquing the bolts. Not doing that will increase ride height and give ya some wonky-ass handling to boot.

Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on July 20, 2023, 12:07:15 AM
Knocked out a couple small projects while I'm on vacation this week.

First I dealt with a power steering issue. The power steering worked fine when it was cold, but when it warmed up it would groan and hang up when turning the wheel. It would also shoot fluid out of the cap sometimes. So I bought a power steering cooler and installed it. I also replaced the power steering pump under lifetime warranty from 2018. That seems to have resolved the power steering issues.

(https://i.imgur.com/nkoY4qY.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/E4TezdH.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/wPa44BO.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/GertNtx.jpg)

New dew wipes!

I used the universal dew wipes from Fairchild part no: 1369-4x2. They're not bad for the price. I think they were $27 plus $20 for shipping from Rockauto. They're not perfect, but definitely a lot better than cracked and crumbling 40 year old dew wipes.

(https://i.imgur.com/3diPFhm.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/sv7Q0qg.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Cf81Z09.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/qf0ZkMY.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/yRIW7Sq.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/g9jhG9L.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/wWZTXgd.jpg)

Here's the new dew wipe next to the old one. I was unable to reuse the clips from the old dew wipe. The clips are stapled into the dew wipe, and wouldn't come off without destroying them. The door mirror, the stud at the back of the dew wipe, and the B pillar trim is still holding the dew wipe in place so I'm not worried about the clips.
(https://i.imgur.com/UwAfrCz.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ovzsSZf.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/R3kXuyw.jpg)

Here's the dew wipe riveted onto the trim. I didn't have to make any relief cuts since it's a lot shorter than the factory dew wipe, and I'm not using any trim clips.
(https://i.imgur.com/2V4tBRW.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/QoZGsJk.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/jsljuRX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/wWZTXgd.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ek5GxqX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Z0wOQCH.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/cHAnKgo.jpg)
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: Chuck W on July 20, 2023, 08:40:48 AM
I think I'd rather have the wipe full length, personally. Good job at making those work, though.

When I did the dew wipes on the LTS, I wound up using a piece that was originally the outer piece for the rear window of a Full-size Bronco. Discovered it in a Google search. PN for the outer is D8TZ-9841610-A. (A lot of places sell both the inner and outer as a kit) I think mine came from Dennis Carpenter.

They are roughly 4' long and use the stock-style clips.
(https://turbochuckcom.ipage.com/webimages/projects/85%20LTS/2021/Body/dewwipes_2.jpg)

The clips are removable/usable though.  While most of the clips on the new piece lined up with the originals, a few didn't. To relocate them, you just pry the two little tabs open on the back side and remove the clip from the strip. Then I just drilled 2 small holes, big enough for those tabs to go through at the new location. Then install the clip and bend the tabs back into place. They're a little shorter than the TBird stuff below the window line, but the same elsewhere.

One of the Bronco pieces was enough to do one side of the LTS, and should be more than enough for a TBird.

My TBird needs new dew wipes as well, and I was going to investigate this route when I get around to doing them.
Title: Re: 84 Tbird project
Post by: 5.0 tbird on July 20, 2023, 05:52:28 PM
I think I'd rather have the wipe full length, personally. Good job at making those work, though.

When I did the dew wipes on the LTS, I wound up using a piece that was originally the outer piece for the rear window of a Full-size Bronco. Discovered it in a Google search. PN for the outer is D8TZ-9841610-A. (A lot of places sell both the inner and outer as a kit) I think mine came from Dennis Carpenter.

They are roughly 4' long and use the stock-style clips.
(https://turbochuckcom.ipage.com/webimages/projects/85%20LTS/2021/Body/dewwipes_2.jpg)

The clips are removable/usable though.  While most of the clips on the new piece lined up with the originals, a few didn't. To relocate them, you just pry the two little tabs open on the back side and remove the clip from the strip. Then I just drilled 2 small holes, big enough for those tabs to go through at the new location. Then install the clip and bend the tabs back into place. They're a little shorter than the TBird stuff below the window line, but the same elsewhere.

One of the Bronco pieces was enough to do one side of the LTS, and should be more than enough for a TBird.

My TBird needs new dew wipes as well, and I was going to investigate this route when I get around to doing them.


Thank you sir! I got these Fairchild dew wipes because I saw them on coolcats. They're 48" long too so I cut about 6" off each one. They do the job, but no clips is a drawback. If I ever do dew wipes again I'll definitely use those Bronco dew wipes.