I have a 1966 daily driver (I drive it every chance I get). I also own a 1989 GT daily driver.
Here is my point, I would like my 66 to be as reliable as my 89 ... the technology in 1966 was not that good. I am constantly repairing and replacing parts. I can't put anything in the trunk because of the gas smell. I have a new tank and everything is sealed, but the gas cap just covers the opening ... that is the way its designed. The gas gauge is only kinda accurate. The sending unit just doesn't have the capibility of being accurate ... the underdash wiring harness cost $400.00+ and its just as bad as the one I took out ... I can do all the work myself and have lots of plans to fix some of the big problems like the leaking cowl (don't get me started). I am going to permanantly seal the cowl and bring in fresh air from the front of the body. The wiper only has on speed ... the two speed wiper motor isn't much better.
These are just some examples of the problems I would like to fix. I want everything you see to be 1966, but everything you can't see to be 1990+ technology. I have thought of several things to do to resolve these issues, but I don't want to "re-invent the wheel" if I don't have to.
Has someone else already solved these problems ... one or all of the inherent problems of the 64-66 Mustangs.
My idea is to buy a parts car, like a Ford Ranger (because of the rearwheel drive), and modify the parts like the wiper moter, heater plenum, AC and use the engine and transmission from it so I have fuel injection. I bought a "Painless" wiring harness so I could put in a Viper security system and electic windows and door locks. I realize all the work and cost it will involve. I intend to own a 196X fastback someday that will be almost all stock, but this 1966 coupe is what I wanted since I was 8 years old.
I intend to take it on my Route 66 dream vacation in the spring or fall of next year.
Can anyone point me to resources ... I have tried to find discussions on this topic with no luck ... ???
Mark
P.S. I work on computers for a living, I used to be a mechanic, I can weld, fabricate ... but I know I am not alone out here and if someone else has a great idea or has already solved these problems, and is willing to share it, I would really appreciate the help ... I do NOT have unlimited funds ... just a working guy.

 

Have you checked the FAQ section? You may find answers to many of your problems in there. You have a lot of questions, and too many to answer in one thread. Regarding your gas smell in the trunk, I assume you used a new filler pipe to tank hose designed for that purpose. Just any hose will not hold up very long because the gas will deteriorate it. Regarding the cap, either order a new gasket, or make one yourself. I made mine out of a roll of gasket material. It's an interesting idea you have regarding the fresh air vent. That just may work, but not sure where you will run the tube from the front to the cowl in the engine compartment. I guess that fabrication can be resolved when you put in the new engine. You may want to consider taking it one step at a time with an end of the job map in your head. The suspension and brakes would be the first step IMO.

 

+1

start with the suspension and brakes to get the most crucial part of your car up to date. what good is it if you can't stop or swerve out of the way?

you will find (as i did) the FAQ thread at the top will be your new bible.

for your wipers, you can get the 2 speed motor and buy a delay kit for a few bux at almost any auto parts store.

a solution for your gas gauge problem, is it acurate when it gets to the bottom of the tank? if so, mind your miles and see around how many you can get on a full tank. than you really don't need to be concerned with the gauge as long as you do a complete fill when you stop for gas (you can get away with throwing a few bux in in an emergency). you could also try a new one if you haven't already.

IMO, depending on how strict motor vehicles is in your state on emissions and the like, your biggest problem (which isn't even that bad at all) would be your emissions and keeping the carb tuned when you are done.

oh, and the painless kit (for the most part) really is painless.

good luck with everything and keep us posted.

 

i would go with a 93 mustang for parts. check out this site windsor-fox and thisMIB

 

I feel you man I have a 69 coupe and I would love to get a little more modern with it. I want the AC/Heating out of a newer vehicle to slap into my old beast. I'm just getting started on updating mine, so if you could pm me all of the info that you have found or find in the way of this forum then that would be great. I do computers as well, but I'm military so I don't even make as much as you at it so budget is always first and foremost.