Will 85-86 tail lights fit correctly on a 83-84? When I bought my 85 10 years ago, it had one 85-86 tail light and one 83-84, but it seems the 83-84 didn't fit right or something.
I believe the later ones wrap around.
No, they won't seal up properly. It will bolt on, but the openings in the rear panel are in different locations.
Yep, as Chuck says...there needs to be major hackage of the metal panel to cross-fit the taillights. It can be done but it's messy. Plus there's rewiring that needs done.
I installed 83-84 lights on my 85 Cougar when the right outer plastic lense was stolen. I had to remove 2 of the studs out of the six or eight if I remember right. I also had to lengthen the wires for the backup lights in order to get the connectors on the bulbs.
I'm sure similar problems going the other way. Newer to older vice older to newer in my case. I didn't have to cut or drill the back panel.
I made it work but ChuckW is right they will not seal properly.
Cool. Thanks guys, its been a while since I've messed with a Fox bird. Now, anyone know where I can find a 85/86 t-bird for cheap?
ok... i thought we was talkin bout cougar... not tbird? i think 83-86 tbird tail lights would be the same but cougar on the other hand... the above said about hacking the sheetmetal is true... can be done ive done it.
No, the same holds true for the Tbirds as well as the Cougars.
The 83-84 and 85-86 tail lights do not interchange w/o modifications to the rear panel.
Chuck w speaks the truth as i found out the hard way with an 86 parts car for my 84 thunderbird project car. they are not the same. i like the back lights by the tag (85-86) the 83-84 has the back up lights in the middle of the tail light section.
No worries. I have found 2 85's for sale. Now I must choose.
wow... i didnt know that... they all looked the same to me lol as u can tell im a cougar nut... not a tbird nut lol
It's the same thing on the Cougars....
I didn't have the heart to say it.