1965 Thunderbird - Older Restoration - Running/Driving

1965 Ford Thunderbird Description

1965 Ford Thunderbird 390 V8, 3-SPD Auto with No Reserve

Older cosmetic, interior, and mechanical restoration (mid-1990s). This is by no means a show winner, nor is it a replacement for a new car. But it really did take me to work in the rain, in the snow, over potholes, at night, in the 1-degree weather (never let me down), and on nice days, it really is a pleasure to drive.

Clear NJ title in my name only. As a 1960s car, the interior is unlike most bench-seat, flat-dash cars of the era. It is also far more grand-tourer of a car with the cock-pit-like driver seat. And parts are available. It is easy to work on. Everything is simple and mechanical. I know it isnt really the most desirableof the Thunderbirds, but it is in really nice, presentable, reliable shape. I really do hope you enjoy it. I bought it one year ago from a family friend when I returned from deployment but do not want to garage it anymore. I have all the paperwork to prove that this car was loved and cared for. I am recently married and that is the reason I am selling.

Recent mechanical updates include:

• · 2 new brake calipers, pads, rotors
• · Conversion to (new) dual master brake cylinder with booster)
• · New aluminum radiator
• · 2 new leaf springs with rear bushings and u-bolts
• · 4 shocks/strut rod bushings
• · New alternator
• · New NAPA battery
• · New tires (225/75/15); balance and alignment
• · Power steering and brake system flush
• · Timing adjustment
• · Carb adjustment/clean with new throttle springs…etc.
• · Wires/NGK spark plugs/points/distributer/coil

Paint 5-6/10 – This was an original beige/off-white car resprayed green in the mid-1990s (including jambs, hood, trunk…etc. The previous owner repaired many chips and scratches with touchup paint and didn’t do that great of a job. There are a couple areas of clearcoat fade (especially on the passenger roof).

Body 7/10 – There are some dents and scrapes. The rear quarter panels were repaired with bondo and fiberglass and are a little wavy. Structurally, the car is sound, and rust is at a minimum. Glass is good and visibility is great. On windy days, the triangle window whistles a little, but I have a piece of weather stripping to stop it.

Interior 8/10 – Interior is nicer than you’d expect, but there are cracks on the dash and scuffmarks. Carpet is new. Front seats redone.

Mechanical 7/10 – the vacuum lines whine on startup, and it takes a few minutes to get warmed up (especially in the cold), but runs fine, doesnt knock or smoke, and aceletates as expected. I adjust the points every so often, but a conversion to electronic ignition is probably next on the list if you are looking to drive this car every day (in every weather). There is a little bit of exhaust blow when accelerating that has been covered with sealant. I do get a few drops of oil after driving, but it does not drip/leak all the time. Once it shifts into 3rd gear (at 65/70pmh) it will cruise up to 90 and stay there without fatigue.

· The good: It does not overheat, it accelerates well, and stops well and straight. Steering is good, electrical is good.

· What to look for: After the engine reaches temperature, the starter will get hot and will be hesitant to start (like the battery is low). Wait five minutes and give it some gas and crank 2 more times, and it will start. It has always restarted, even if it takes me a minute. This is the only thing I can think of that would give me buyer-s remorse if I didnt state it at the outset.

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Please feel free to reach out to me with questions. Available for test drives in Parsippany NJ after 6:30pm or on weekend with notice. If you want the car delivered, Ill drive it to you if it isnt too far. Major mechanical services performed at Brauns Automotive in Morristown and Brake/Suspension work performed at Hackensack Spring. Everything with receipts and records will be passed to you.