Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on July 08, 2015, 11:11:12 PM
Post by: MY83T on July 08, 2015, 11:11:12 PM
As some of you are aware, my 83 Heritage is a total loss from Hurricane Sandy. I picked up a 87 Cougar XR-7 2 years ago to make me feel better and have something in the family to drive and wrench on. I was unsuccessfully trying to sell it as i have a really clean 89 Lincoln LSC that fell in my lap this year. A direct trade for a super clean 83 Heritage for my Cougar has been secured and i should be driving out to swap in 2-3 weeks. The person i am trading is a pal and forum member and i can't begin to thank them for arranging the trade. He swapped a spare TC he had with the 83's owner, and now is swapping with me to obtain the 83. Its a 1983 Thunderbird Heritage 2 owner car with 60K miles. Near perfect interior and almost no rust to speak of, as its a North Carolina car. Here are a few pics for now.....
Feels really good to have a 83 in the stable once again.......
Feels really good to have a 83 in the stable once again.......
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on July 08, 2015, 11:12:04 PM
Post by: MY83T on July 08, 2015, 11:12:04 PM
one more
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on July 09, 2015, 12:29:21 AM
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on July 09, 2015, 12:29:21 AM
Good for you Dave! That's awesome!
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on July 09, 2015, 01:19:22 AM
Post by: MY83T on July 09, 2015, 01:19:22 AM
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: STANG8U on July 09, 2015, 02:03:44 AM
Post by: STANG8U on July 09, 2015, 02:03:44 AM
Very nice man ........ Clean
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on July 09, 2015, 05:59:16 AM
Post by: ISTLCRUZ on July 09, 2015, 05:59:16 AM
Nice looking bird. Glad you were able to find it. I know you have gone back and forth on what to do with yours after the damage. What are your plans for it? All I see is a little trim repaint and you are good to go.:cool: Ray.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: 50tbrd88 on July 09, 2015, 08:45:06 AM
Post by: 50tbrd88 on July 09, 2015, 08:45:06 AM
Nice!
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: CoogarXR on July 09, 2015, 09:10:33 AM
Post by: CoogarXR on July 09, 2015, 09:10:33 AM
I miss my 83 cougar. Of all the cars I had in my life, I got the most use out of it. The only car I ever owned that I had long enough to personally put over 100k miles on. Every time I see an 83 with the 5.0 it makes me miss that car. *sigh*.
Enjoy that car. It'll be good to ya.
Enjoy that car. It'll be good to ya.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: rodsterh on July 09, 2015, 09:29:53 AM
Post by: rodsterh on July 09, 2015, 09:29:53 AM
Sweet! Looks like a nice unmolested car. Welcome back to the 83 club. :D What have you decided to do with the flood car?
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on July 09, 2015, 12:18:57 PM
Post by: MY83T on July 09, 2015, 12:18:57 PM
The flood car is going to a friend who might try and make something from the mess. I would rather see the car live on in some fashion than the $200 in s. I don't have time to part her, and if i did, no place to store everything. I need to just let go and move on. My plans for the new 83 are slap my TRX's on, lower her a bit and maybe a nice new exhaust. Otherwise stock she stays......
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on July 09, 2015, 02:23:25 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on July 09, 2015, 02:23:25 PM
Quote from: MY83T;449598
The flood car is going to a friend who might try and make something from the mess. I would rather see the car live on in some fashion than the $200 in s. I don't have time to part her, and if i did, no place to store everything. I need to just let go and move on. My plans for the new 83 are slap my TRX's on, lower her a bit and maybe a nice new exhaust. Otherwise stock she stays......
I was just going to say it needs TRX wheels :). For exhaust I'd do a set of 86-93 Mustang factory headers and 2.25" dual exhaust with turbo lers. Not too loud and easily reversible should you decide to go back to stock.
Looks like a great score. Nifty color combo too.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: CoogarXR on July 09, 2015, 03:03:03 PM
Post by: CoogarXR on July 09, 2015, 03:03:03 PM
On my 83 I had to move the frame-mounted fuel pump to make room for my duals. Just a heads-up.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: rodsterh on July 09, 2015, 09:57:35 PM
Post by: rodsterh on July 09, 2015, 09:57:35 PM
Quote from: MY83T;449598
The flood car is going to a friend who might try and make something from the mess. I would rather see the car live on in some fashion than the $200 in s. I don't have time to part her, and if i did, no place to store everything. I need to just let go and move on. My plans for the new 83 are slap my TRX's on, lower her a bit and maybe a nice new exhaust. Otherwise stock she stays......
Sounds like a plan. Keep us posted on your progress and the flood car...
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: My10-80 on July 09, 2015, 10:26:07 PM
Post by: My10-80 on July 09, 2015, 10:26:07 PM
I'm glad that you finally got back to what your heart desires. That is a beautiful specimen of a car and I second your motion for keeping it stock. Although a little bit of that classic car rumble is excellent to have. Good luck with her and enjoy your nice "new" car.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 05, 2015, 05:52:03 AM
Post by: MY83T on August 05, 2015, 05:52:03 AM
So i drove out to PA late last night to meet up with Justin (JandMMustangs). We did a key for key swap for his White on Red 83 Thunderbird Heritage with 76,000 miles, and incredible documentation. He took my 87 XR-7 Cougar in trade. He is one of the coolest car guys i have ever met, and i owe him a huge thank you for doing this really kind trade. I am going to shoot a thousand pics today and post a new thread in user rides so stay tuned. I love this forum, and the guys who frequent it. I am really having difficulty expressing my feelings right now.......
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: Haystack on August 05, 2015, 06:15:12 AM
Post by: Haystack on August 05, 2015, 06:15:12 AM
As much as I hate the 83-84 dash, I love the door panels.
I always felt a bit... off when I drove a 87-88 car. Just something about those 4 eyes.
I always felt a bit... off when I drove a 87-88 car. Just something about those 4 eyes.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 05, 2015, 05:29:49 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 05, 2015, 05:29:49 PM
Glad you like it. As we all know Thunderbird > Cougar ;)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: kylesburrell on August 05, 2015, 05:39:05 PM
Post by: kylesburrell on August 05, 2015, 05:39:05 PM
Tell the guy youre giving the flood car to about this forum!!! Always nice to see what others have done with these cars
-Kyle
-Kyle
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: CoogarXR on August 05, 2015, 08:58:06 PM
Post by: CoogarXR on August 05, 2015, 08:58:06 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;450363
Glad you like it. As we all know Thunderbird < Cougar ;)
There, fixed that for you :mullet:
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 06, 2015, 01:12:13 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 06, 2015, 01:12:13 PM
Quote from: CoogarXR;450367
There, fixed that for you :mullet:
I think it was correct the first time ;)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 06, 2015, 05:10:23 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 06, 2015, 05:10:23 PM
I called and spoke with the 84 year old original owner today for a 1/2 hour. This car has a pretty interesting back story. It seems that Ford marketing rushed 38 Birds of all types to Charlotte Motor Speedway for a large race/event. After the event the cars were offered for local sale, as Used cars. The bill of sale lists the car as "used" with 45 miles on it, and he paid 12K in cash in person for the car. The car was driven around the track and the alternator went. The towing genius who was taking it back to the Ford dealer left the car in gear and fried the transmission. This car finally sold for 12k with 45 miles and had a new alternator and transmission before the 1st owner took it off the lot. This car has no buck tag, not even a hole for the rivet for it. The vin search comes up with the car being a base car, even though it is 100% wearing heritage trim. I can hardly wait for the Marti on this car.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 08, 2015, 04:46:25 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 08, 2015, 04:46:25 PM
PHOTOS:
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0426.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0426.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0427.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0427.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0424.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0424.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0429.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0429.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0439.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0439.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0435.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0435.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0436.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0436.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0443.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0443.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0444.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0444.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0450.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0450.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0426.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0426.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0427.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0427.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0424.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0424.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0429.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0429.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0439.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0439.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0435.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0435.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0436.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0436.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0443.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0443.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0444.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0444.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0450.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0450.jpg.html)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: rodsterh on August 08, 2015, 11:40:12 PM
Post by: rodsterh on August 08, 2015, 11:40:12 PM
If it's an Atlanta built car, don't think it ever had a buck tag.
I see the original owner signature nameplate on the dash! :)
I see the original owner signature nameplate on the dash! :)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 08, 2015, 11:57:55 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 08, 2015, 11:57:55 PM
Rod, its a Atlanta car, thanks for clearing that up. G. H. Blair Jr. He and I had a long chat on Friday morning about the car and its history. So to recap, here was the discussion: The car was supposedly one of 38 Thunderbirds of all trim levels rush shipped to (The Miller Time 300
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Saturday, October 8, 1983
Race 33 of the 1983 NASCAR Budweiser Late Model Sportsman Series.
They were to be driven locally and near the track by Ford execs and there spouses that were in attendance to create a high profile. The car he purchased (my car) was run around the track and somehow they fried the alternator. The had a towing person come in and towed the car in gear all the way to the dealership, and roasted the transmission on a car with 45 miles on it. The car was repaired, and was sold to Mr. Blair as a "used" car, with 45 miles which is backed up by the original sales invoice which i have. He paid 12K in cash for the car and drove it away. I have a very strong feeling this car was pulled off the line, and hastily prepared for this event. The options are so weird on this Heritage.
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Saturday, October 8, 1983
Race 33 of the 1983 NASCAR Budweiser Late Model Sportsman Series.
They were to be driven locally and near the track by Ford execs and there spouses that were in attendance to create a high profile. The car he purchased (my car) was run around the track and somehow they fried the alternator. The had a towing person come in and towed the car in gear all the way to the dealership, and roasted the transmission on a car with 45 miles on it. The car was repaired, and was sold to Mr. Blair as a "used" car, with 45 miles which is backed up by the original sales invoice which i have. He paid 12K in cash for the car and drove it away. I have a very strong feeling this car was pulled off the line, and hastily prepared for this event. The options are so weird on this Heritage.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 12, 2015, 10:25:41 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 12, 2015, 10:25:41 PM
New pics today........ Enjoy
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2026.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2026.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2023a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2023a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2021.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2021.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2032a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2032a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2056a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2056a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2046a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2046a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2026.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2026.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2023a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2023a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2021.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2021.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2032a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2032a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2056a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2056a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2046a.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2046a.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/mitchell%20field%20Bird%20pics/CON_2038.jpg.html)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: mercury-man on August 13, 2015, 04:49:20 AM
Post by: mercury-man on August 13, 2015, 04:49:20 AM
Congrats on your new ride David.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 13, 2015, 12:25:16 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 13, 2015, 12:25:16 PM
Quote from: mercury-man;450573
Congrats on your new ride David.
Thanks Dan!
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 13, 2015, 12:54:47 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 13, 2015, 12:54:47 PM
Looking good :).
Needs a set of TRX wheels ;)
Needs a set of TRX wheels ;)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 13, 2015, 01:42:35 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 13, 2015, 01:42:35 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;450581
Looking good :).
Needs a set of TRX wheels ;)
Working on wheel options........ TRX's are way too costly, i need to work on an alternative.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 13, 2015, 03:28:06 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 13, 2015, 03:28:06 PM
Quote from: MY83T;450587
Working on wheel options........ TRX's are way too costly, i need to work on an alternative.
How about 83-84 Turbo Coupe (also 85-88 Elan/LX) 8 hole wheels? They would be era appropriate and take a 215/70/14 tire.
10 holes with Thunderbird center caps are more era appropriate for 85-86 cars and Snowflakes with Thunderbird center caps are more era appropriate for 87-88 cars.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: Thunder Chicken on August 13, 2015, 04:50:32 PM
Post by: Thunder Chicken on August 13, 2015, 04:50:32 PM
Nice car, and the pics are gorgeous. Some of those pics could have been Ford advertising copy...
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: White85GS on August 13, 2015, 10:23:44 PM
Post by: White85GS on August 13, 2015, 10:23:44 PM
I had a set of phone dials on my 85 Cougar, I kick myself for not keeping them
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 13, 2015, 10:43:51 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 13, 2015, 10:43:51 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;450588
How about 83-84 Turbo Coupe (also 85-88 Elan/LX) 8 hole wheels? They would be era appropriate and take a 215/70/14 tire.
10 holes with Thunderbird center caps are more era appropriate for 85-86 cars and Snowflakes with Thunderbird center caps are more era appropriate for 87-88 cars.
Quote from: Thunder Chicken;450591
Nice car, and the pics are gorgeous. Some of those pics could have been Ford advertising copy...
Thanks for the kind feedback, it was a gorgeous night, and believe it or not, this was an impulse stop on my way home from a corporate shoot.
Quote from: White85GS;450604
I had a set of phone dials on my 85 Cougar, I kick myself for not keeping them
They are fairly common, i see them sell on CL and eBay often.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 14, 2015, 01:33:19 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 14, 2015, 01:33:19 PM
So when are you coming out to Chicago to take some cool pictures of my Thunderbird?
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 15, 2015, 10:24:51 AM
Post by: MY83T on August 15, 2015, 10:24:51 AM
Quote from: thunderjet302;450613
So when are you coming out to Chicago to take some cool pictures of my Thunderbird?
Send me a ticket, buy me a beer, done.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 15, 2015, 12:14:48 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 15, 2015, 12:14:48 PM
Quote from: MY83T;450628
Send me a ticket, buy me a beer, done.
Or if you ever come through Midway or O'Hare drop me line :).
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: jandmmustangs on August 15, 2015, 03:56:34 PM
Post by: jandmmustangs on August 15, 2015, 03:56:34 PM
Quote from: MY83T;450628
Send me a ticket, buy me a beer, done.
Wow, you're a cheap date lol.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 16, 2015, 10:40:35 AM
Post by: MY83T on August 16, 2015, 10:40:35 AM
Quote from: jandmmustangs;450635
Wow, you're a cheap date lol.
For my Bird buds I'm a cheap crack w.... :shakeass:
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: jrad235 on August 16, 2015, 11:32:32 AM
Post by: jrad235 on August 16, 2015, 11:32:32 AM
LOL! Nice car, very clean.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 19, 2015, 01:28:07 AM
Post by: MY83T on August 19, 2015, 01:28:07 AM
Quote from: jrad235;450656
LOL! Nice car, very clean.
Thanks pal, the 83 club has to stick together......
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: My10-80 on August 20, 2015, 04:28:20 AM
Post by: My10-80 on August 20, 2015, 04:28:20 AM
Quote from: Thunder Chicken;450591
Nice car, and the pics are gorgeous. Some of those pics could have been Ford advertising copy...
I agree those pics are great and really set the car off nice. Wish I had the eye for something like that.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 28, 2015, 12:54:10 AM
Post by: MY83T on August 28, 2015, 12:54:10 AM
Swapped my dash panels for black today. I think it looks way better and sportier with the buttstuffog gauges.
Before:
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg.html)
After:
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3643.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3643.jpg.html)
Before:
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg.html)
After:
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3643.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3643.jpg.html)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: flipnbird on August 28, 2015, 05:42:56 AM
Post by: flipnbird on August 28, 2015, 05:42:56 AM
The Black looks waaaaaay better...
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: mo2872 on August 28, 2015, 09:17:36 AM
Post by: mo2872 on August 28, 2015, 09:17:36 AM
Agreed.....kind of calms down the interior. Seemed......busy with the woodgrain.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 28, 2015, 11:55:15 AM
Post by: thunderjet302 on August 28, 2015, 11:55:15 AM
Looking good. I like the black better.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 28, 2015, 05:11:14 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 28, 2015, 05:11:14 PM
Steering wheel insert black now too..... used my old one from the flood car, rattle canned the insert and popped in in. Looks way better i think. I like the contrast between the black and the red. I am thinking black floormats too, might break it up a bit.
Before:
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0450.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0450.jpg.html)
After:
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/a796d5d4a9af0429e242ddee34cadf2d.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/3220cdf098ca3af1d20e5898c67833ab.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/a15e14937e2eb5ab064b78e07751d558.jpg)
Before:
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_0450.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_0450.jpg.html)
After:
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/a796d5d4a9af0429e242ddee34cadf2d.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/3220cdf098ca3af1d20e5898c67833ab.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/a15e14937e2eb5ab064b78e07751d558.jpg)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: cj750 on August 28, 2015, 05:47:42 PM
Post by: cj750 on August 28, 2015, 05:47:42 PM
The black looks nice. One of the first things I did when I got my '85 Cougar was replace the woodgrain dash with brushed metallic pieces from a junkyard T-bird. I know some people prefer the woodgrain, and power to 'em. But the other finishes are more suited to these cars, in my opinion.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: White85GS on August 28, 2015, 09:59:19 PM
Post by: White85GS on August 28, 2015, 09:59:19 PM
I'm one of those people, lol. I swapped the brushed aluminum for wood in my 86. Gives it a much "warmer" feel imo.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 28, 2015, 10:13:30 PM
Post by: MY83T on August 28, 2015, 10:13:30 PM
I like the wood too, but that is lot of red im battling. I think darker charcoal, black dark blue etc look nice with the plastic wood.��
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: cj750 on August 29, 2015, 12:33:21 AM
Post by: cj750 on August 29, 2015, 12:33:21 AM
One nice thing about it, its easy to change to whichever configuration you prefer. (At least '85-'88. I have no idea what's involved in changing out dash trim on an '83-'84.) I'll admit that the brushed metallic surfaces do make the interior a bit dark, at least in my gray interior car. It's a shame FoMoCo didn't offer an "engine turned" dash like they did in the '77-'79 ThunderCats. It's cool looking and much brighter than the brushed finish.
(http://www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/5-Cougar.jpg)
(http://www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/5-Cougar.jpg)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on August 30, 2015, 09:50:14 AM
Post by: MY83T on August 30, 2015, 09:50:14 AM
Quote from: cj750;450913
One nice thing about it, its easy to change to whichever configuration you prefer. (At least '85-'88. I have no idea what's involved in changing out dash trim on an '83-'84.) I'll admit that the brushed metallic surfaces do make the interior a bit dark, at least in my gray interior car. It's a shame FoMoCo didn't offer an "engine turned" dash like they did in the '77-'79 ThunderCats. It's cool looking and much brighter than the brushed finish.
(http://www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/5-Cougar.jpg)
Its a about 10 screws, and i switched the t bird logo out for a heritage emblem. Not even 10 minutes to swap. Non permanent and easy to switch back.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on September 02, 2015, 03:03:44 PM
Post by: MY83T on September 02, 2015, 03:03:44 PM
Scored me a like new set of TRX tires for $300 shipped. I am very excited to refinish my rims now and add them to the new car.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on September 02, 2015, 06:34:05 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on September 02, 2015, 06:34:05 PM
Quote from: MY83T;451015
Scored me a like new set of TRX tires for $300 shipped. I am very excited to refinish my rims now and add them to the new car.
How old are the tires?
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on September 02, 2015, 06:54:32 PM
Post by: MY83T on September 02, 2015, 06:54:32 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;451022
How old are the tires?
They are 5-6 years old and were stored in a climate controlled garage. I saw numerous pics, 90% tread and zero dry rot. These will be local around town tires and fair weather only. I really like the way these wheels look.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: thunderjet302 on September 02, 2015, 08:12:07 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on September 02, 2015, 08:12:07 PM
Quote from: MY83T;451025
They are 5-6 years old and were stored in a climate controlled garage. I saw numerous pics, 90% tread and zero dry rot. These will be local around town tires and fair weather only. I really like the way these wheels look.
Ah good. I would be worried about dry rot with old tires. I agree the TRX wheels look great on the 83-84 cars.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on September 25, 2015, 10:08:29 AM
Post by: MY83T on September 25, 2015, 10:08:29 AM
Scored me another almost new set of TRX tires on a like new set of Thunderbird TRX wheels for $200 bucks. Picking them up this week. Thats $500 total for 2 sets of tires with a set of factory take offs. In other news, i degreased my engine bay, and de-porned my ultra red interior with some tasteful black accents. (Floor mats, dash, steering wheel cover and center etc....) Looks sportier i think.
Before
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg.html)
After
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_6208%20copy.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_6208%20copy.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_6206%20copy.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_6206%20copy.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_6209%20copy.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_6209%20copy.jpg.html)
Before
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/Dash%20Swap/IMG_3540.jpg.html)
After
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_6208%20copy.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_6208%20copy.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_6206%20copy.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_6206%20copy.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_6209%20copy.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_6209%20copy.jpg.html)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: mo2872 on September 25, 2015, 10:52:43 AM
Post by: mo2872 on September 25, 2015, 10:52:43 AM
LMAO, "de-porned".........
I like the black accent changes. It does tone things down a bit.
I like the black accent changes. It does tone things down a bit.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on September 27, 2015, 12:40:40 AM
Post by: MY83T on September 27, 2015, 12:40:40 AM
Said goodbye to my flood car yesterday, got towed away by a fellow Ford guy who will try and give it a 2nd life as a platform for a new drivetrain with new dash, wiring etc. Im relieved to have it gone at this point, and looking forward to making my new 83 as nice as i can.
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_7992.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_7992.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_7996.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_7996.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_7994.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_7994.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_8000.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_8000.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_8007.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_8007.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_7992.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_7992.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_7996.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_7996.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_7994.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_7994.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_8000.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_8000.jpg.html)
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/CON_8007.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/CON_8007.jpg.html)
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: jandmmustangs on September 27, 2015, 08:59:43 AM
Post by: jandmmustangs on September 27, 2015, 08:59:43 AM
Probably shoulda saved those TRX wheels.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: mcb82gt on September 27, 2015, 10:26:27 PM
Post by: mcb82gt on September 27, 2015, 10:26:27 PM
Quote from: jandmmustangs;451401
Probably shoulda saved those TRX wheels.
For what? To recycle???
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: MY83T on September 28, 2015, 09:02:39 AM
Post by: MY83T on September 28, 2015, 09:02:39 AM
Quote from: mcb82gt;451415
For what? To recycle???
Not speaking to the performance or quality of TRX technology, i really like the look of them. I think they are the best looking stock 83/84 wheel for our cars.
Title: My new 1983 Thunderbird Heritage (Updated 8/12/15) New Pics Added
Post by: rodsterh on September 28, 2015, 11:47:15 PM
Post by: rodsterh on September 28, 2015, 11:47:15 PM
Quote from: mcb82gt;451415
For what? To recycle???
No.. for me! :) I'd take a clean set.
Quote from: MY83T;451420
Not speaking to the performance or quality of TRX technology, i really like the look of them. I think they are the best looking stock 83/84 wheel for our cars.
+1
Sad to see the car go I'm sure but hopefully the new owner will bring it back to life in some form. If you get updates on the project, let us know.
Title: New pics 10/18/15
Post by: MY83T on October 18, 2015, 09:21:33 PM
Post by: MY83T on October 18, 2015, 09:21:33 PM
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/DSC_4880.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/DSC_4880.jpg.html)(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/DSC_4878.jpeg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/DSC_4878.jpeg.html)(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg169/my70gt/DSC_4865.jpg) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/my70gt/media/DSC_4865.jpg.html)