I am new to Mustang so I thought I would try your forum for advice. I just purchased a 65 convertible for my winter project. The body is solid with few exceptions.
Here are some thoughts I am wondering about:
1. Installing a Cobra supercharged engine. Issues?
2. 6 speed transmission
3. Flared rear wheel wells
4. Independent rear suspension
5. Conversion to a Mustang II front suspension
6. Front to rear frame ties
Any direction or suggestions are appreciated!

 

Congrats on the stang! it sounds like you have quite a challenge! you might want to check out this website:

http://www.sn65.com/SN65%20story.htm

 

Please post pictures. Everyone loves to see then, the many stages in between, and the finished product.

 

If you have very, very deep pockets, the SN65 swap is possible, but not for just a novice without either a lot of money, or a lot of skill, or both. The Mustang II front suspension would have to be considered to get that beast of an engine in the 65. But, it is my understanding that the Mustang II front ends were weak. Now, the 6 speed tranny is a great idea if you can get the engine to match the tranny. You must be considering huge wheels and tires in the rear to be considering flaring the rear wheel wells. You can also consider tubbing. The frame rail extensions are no problem at all to install. You can either bolt them on, or weld them on. As far as the independent rear suspension, I don't know of any advantages to that conversion that would be beneficial you on the street or drag strip. Instead, you want to tie the rear end together. Consider something like the Watts link.

 

That's a '65 shell on a modern chassis. Not a modified '65.

1. Won't fit without major surgery. Get a 302, stroke it to 331 or 347 and slap on a roots style blower and you'll be miles ahead.

2. Cool.

3. Only if you have the tires to put in.

4. How much money do you have? It's possible, but the solid axles will handle more power than an IRS. Build up a 9" from a company like Currie Enterprises.

5. Major surgery. Some think it's worth while, but the original setup can handle quite well.

6. Necessary. Consider a 4pt cage built into the car to help as well.