Classic Mustangs (Tech) Technical discussions about the Mustangs of yester-year.

Hi from a new guy

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Old Feb 25, 2010 | 07:13 PM
  #1  
Jedro's Avatar
Jedro
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From: North Carolina
Default Hi from a new guy

Hi everyone...
I'm the relatively new owner of a 66 Mustang (last Oct). It's pretty much a solid car, as told to me by the guy who did all the restoration, but there are a few issues. While I'm not at all a car guy, hopefully there's something I can learn to fix myself. Otherwise, back to the shop.

Here's a short list...

Fuel gauge not working

Brake light/turn signal problems; left one doesn't always work, sometimes they stay on after I release the brake pedal

Some scratchiness in the steering column when I turn the wheel either way.

When cold, it will come out of gear and drop into neutral. It's fine when warmed up.

I HAVE to replace the radio, but want to do it tastefully and keep the dash intact. Any suggestions? I want it to sound like a modern car stereo.


OK, so this is a lot to ask about in post #1, but any input is greatly appreciated! I'm eager to learn about my new car.

Thanks
Jed
Old Feb 25, 2010 | 07:38 PM
  #2  
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2+2GT
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While I'm not at all a car guy, hopefully there's something I can learn to fix myself. Otherwise, back to the shop.
Get the Factory Service Manual. Very complete.

Fuel gauge not working
Could be wire, gauge, or sender. You'll need to use a 12V probe and start at the gauge, working your way back to the tank. The sender is also the ground for the circuit.

Brake light/turn signal problems; left one doesn't always work, sometimes they stay on after I release the brake pedal.
This is two problems. The switch for sure, and poor contact on the taillight socket or bulb.

Some scratchiness in the steering column when I turn the wheel either way.
You'll need to spray some lubricant on the slip rings on the back of the steering wheel.

When cold, it will come out of gear and drop into neutral. It's fine when warmed up.
Fluid level? Maybe the trans needs adjusting. Get the FSM.

I HAVE to replace the radio, but want to do it tastefully and keep the dash intact. Any suggestions? I want it to sound like a modern car stereo.
Assuming you have a 66 coupe, you are in ideal spot. Get the USA-66 radio, it's a reproduction of the 65-66 AM/FM pusbutton radio. Get a repro rear speaker grille. Get a dual voicecoil 4x10 front speaker, and a dual voicecoil 6x9 rear speaker. Paint the rear grille to match the package tray, and connect the two left channels to the front speaker and the two right channels to the rear speaker. The USA-66 radio does not tune, as the original, using the buttons. The left button is the source switch, and the others control a remote CD changer, if you choose to include one. You can also use the aux inputs for an mp3 player, etc.


Last edited by 2+2GT; Feb 25, 2010 at 07:42 PM.
Old Feb 26, 2010 | 06:28 AM
  #3  
tx65coupe's Avatar
tx65coupe
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From: Texas
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I would like to find a radio similar to that but has a digital display.

I don't think I can really add anything to what 2+2 said.

For the rear speakers I have a pair of 3 way Kenwood 6x9 speakers with the factory reproduction grilles. It looks sweet. I also have the pair of 2 way speakers that replaces the AM speaker in the center of the dash. I think its made by Ken Harrison. Alot of people say the single speaker with the dual voice coil sounds better. I have not heard that, so I can't say.


Last edited by tx65coupe; Feb 26, 2010 at 06:32 AM.
Old Feb 26, 2010 | 10:45 PM
  #4  
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plainsman1876
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turn signals .need to be replaced at least on of them is rusted up.from water getting in there . I had same prob. with my 65 FSTBK the right front parking light was completly coroded . once I got the new ones worked as good as new.
Old Feb 26, 2010 | 11:29 PM
  #5  
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kbryan
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Joined: Dec 2009
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From: Indiana
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Originally Posted by tx65coupe
I would like to find a radio similar to that but has a digital display.
I saw this in my endless thumbing through mustang parts catalogs.....



http://www.casmfg.com/radios.htm
Old Feb 27, 2010 | 06:09 AM
  #6  
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tx65coupe
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From: Texas
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That one looks pretty cool. I saw they have one for 65-66. Has anyone used it?
Old Feb 27, 2010 | 10:59 AM
  #7  
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Jedro
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From: North Carolina
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Hey, thanks for all the input... It seems maybe a couple of those I can tackle myself, or at least try and fail..!! Something like the transmission, that won't be an area I feel too comfortable approaching. My biggest problem is that I have a mental block on anything I didn't know before I was 20!

As far as the radio, I have seen the models from Custom Autosound. Just not sure what owners generally do when they want a modern audio system in an classic car. I'll most likely go with the USA-66 and add some kick panel speakers along with a couple of new speakers for the rear deck.

I wanted to post a pic or two, but I see that I need a hosting site.

Again, thanks a bunch. The sun's out today so maybe i'll pull her out of the garage and try to get those lights a workin'. Or at least stand there and scratch my head.
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