57 fairlane 500 Convertible Build

[mustang6984]

Well I'll start by saying I won't be using the continental kit. 

Sent you a P/M.

[Stidham13]

Well Rich you may make me eat my words. I was sitting in a waiting room today bored on my phone when I found an article online. Someone has shoehorned a coyote into an original 57 frame. They used a really odd looking front sump oil pan a custom made set of headers that hugged the block and notched the frame at the alternator for clearance.  There were several pictures and it looked very tight. The oil pan had bat wings sticking out the sides I'm assuming in order to have enough capacity. Looks like it can be done just doesn't look like much fun. I never even put a tape measure to it but I wanted a more modern coil over suspension from the beginning.

One thing I didn't mention before I didn't have to do anything to the firewall but the transmission tunnel has to be substantially larger to accommodate the 10R80 transmission. No way use the original front bench seat.

[RICH MUISE]

Yeah, 4.6 users are fortunate in that Ford used the motors in so many vehicles, Ford parts, available from different donors, actually make the 4.6 almost bolt-in....front sump oil pan from 93-98 Continental, early 0's Mustang motor mounts,Crown Vic trans mount and thermostat housing, etc. Not so with the Coyote motors, either way you go, you've got your work cut out for ya. It's going to be so awesome when your finished though, you won't have any regrets.
Availability of parts for your 5.0 is bound to be way better than at least the dohc version of the 4.6. They are already a lot harder to find than 10 years ago.

[Stidham13]

It's been 2 years since I've posted on here thought I would post some new pics. Currently the car is mechanically complete engine, trans, driveshaft brakes and wiring. You could put a seat in and take it for a drive. Might get some weird looks with no fenders or doors or anything. Chrome work has been done, stainless polished. On a side note I enjoy doing all kinds of restoration work welding, bending metal, engine work but I Do Not enjoy polishing stainless steel. I probably have 98% of everything finished that I need to reassemble the car. Currently finishing up the body work then paint and then finally time to put all back together.

[Stidham13]

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[Stidham13]

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[Stidham13]

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[Stidham13]

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[Stidham13]

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[mustang6984]

Looking good. Hopefully ready to drive this next summer! 

[RICH MUISE]

Wow, just found your recent posts. Not sure how I missed it. You obviously like thinking outside the box on your project. It's looking pretty awesome, can't wait to see it on the roads! Thanks for thinking of us with your updates.
I've still got mine, maybe I'll give you a call and take it for a drive to Lubbock one day.
Rich

[lalessi1]

I just saw this for the first time also! Can't imagine how I missed it. VERY IMPRESSIVE!

[Gene]

Yeah, 4.6 users are fortunate in that Ford used the motors in so many vehicles, Ford parts, available from different donors, actually make the 4.6 almost bolt-in....front sump oil pan from 93-98 Continental, early 0's Mustang motor mounts,Crown Vic trans mount and thermostat housing, etc. Not so with the Coyote motors, either way you go, you've got your work cut out for ya. It's going to be so awesome when your finished though, you won't have any regrets.
Availability of parts for your 5.0 is bound to be way better than at least the dohc version of the 4.6. They are already a lot harder to find than 10 years ago.

I did not know these items.   Thanks.    I would like to have a 55 T-Bird with the frame/suspension, and 4.6 and O/D trans in it.  Of course I would have more in it $ than what it is actually resellable.

[Gene]

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Those vent-a-payne assemblies are real fun.  I speak from experience.

[Stidham13]

It's been a while since I've posted here. Thought I would post an update.  I FINALLY got all the body work and paint done. What a daunting task. Especially on a car like this with all of its curvey panel's. I'm finally doing final assembly and so far things are going pretty good. I hope it keeps going that way.