We're temporarily installing...
We're temporarily installing the passenger-side (which is why the Mustang logo is missing) dashpanel. One issue we have with the reproduction piece is the poor radius at the leading edge of the dashboard. It's a bad fit. We'll probably shop for a good original and have it rechromed and painted. This piece is retained with tinnerman's nuts from behind.
This piece should be installed...
This piece should be installed before you install the glovebox insert. Access is better with the insert out. With air conditioning, don't forget the duct.
We've opted for the Grant...
We've opted for the Grant "Mustang" steering wheel in black, which works well with our black standard interior.
The wood version of this wheel...
The wood version of this wheel looks nice, but doesn't feel good in your hands because the wood doesn't feel secure.
Grant steering wheels like...
Grant steering wheels like this one have a separate horn switch and hub kit that have to be assembled. We suggest wrapping the wiring as shown to ward off the risk of short circuit. Do not overtighten the three bolts. Overtightening will crack the conductor.
Two tension pins are installed...
Two tension pins are installed in the hub, which cancel the turn signal. Make sure the split in each pin is turned away from the plastic canceling tabs on the switch. Otherwise, you'll have noise. Speaking of turn-signal switches, now is a good time to replace yours.
Mustangs Plus sent us door...
Mustangs Plus sent us door panels and other interior trim items including armrests and windshield pillar pads for '67 and early '68 Mustangs. These are TMI door panels. Scott Drake Reproductions does the door handles.
TMI door panels aren't prestamped...
TMI door panels aren't prestamped for the driver's remote-mirror adjustment cable.
Using the water shield as...
Using the water shield as a template, mark and cut the hole if equipped. Armrest screw holes get the same treatment here. Carefully punch them out.
Door panels can sometimes...
Door panels can sometimes be tricky, especially when we don't understand them. Clips are installed one way only, with the rounded part in the direction of the rounded pocket in the door panel.
Slip the clip into place....
Slip the clip into place. The foam on some of the clips goes where there's any chance of panel rattle or noise.
Wheel Terrific
Whenever you're shopping steering wheels for your vintage Ford, it's important to think about not only appearance, but driving comfort and function. You want a steering wheel that feels good to hold in your hands. Some look good, yet they feel just downright flimsy.
Another thing to consider is whether or not the steering wheel's styling jibes with your restomod. Some vintage Fords and Mercs don't lend themselves to some of the more outspoken designs we see today. Another issue is color. Does the steering wheel's coloring match your Ford's interior and exterior? Woodgrain works well with nearly any interior theme. But, make sure it ties in with any other woodgrain finish that may exist inside. If your interior has a lot of chrome, the steering wheel should possess chrome as well. Brushed stainless works well with chrome and brushed aluminum. Matte black or monochrome should tie in with a like treatment throughout the rest of the interior.
Remember that "tasteful" stuff we keep rehashing in the world of restomod. Do your own thing with everything, including steering wheels-just keep it tasteful while you're shopping and building.