"The automotive industry is a big employer in our country," says Faldet as he explains why he wants students to be more involved in auto projects. "The goal is to give each student exposure to different areas of auto repair and restoration, like mechanics, maintenance, collision repair, upholstery, electronics, welding, and machining. It's troubling to me that fundamental education-welding, carpentry, etc.-is being totally replaced by college education classes. I feel strongly that the students need the fundamentals as well."
With the car completed, students began selling $20 raffle tickets for a chance to win the Mustang, with the raffle conducted through the Gonvick Jubilee Committee for a drawing during Gonvick's Pumpkin Days Vintage Car Show on September 25. "The project was financially self-supporting," says Ross. "Even though a lot of the value was 'driven away' by the new owner, the parts and supplies were used by students for two years and contributed to their education. Because we don't have an automotive program at the school, we relied heavily on area businesses for tools, equipment, facilities, and expertise. This project would not have been possible without the generosity of numerous people in our community, including everyone who purchased a raffle ticket."
Lorna and Clayton Skoien (left)...
Lorna and Clayton Skoien (left) held the winning raffle ticket for the Clearbrook-Gonvick High School Mustang. Students Mike Johnson, Tyler Johnson, and Danny Godin presented the keys to their two years of hard work and education.
The original six-cylinder...
The original six-cylinder engine was replaced by this rebuilt and mildly modified 351 Windsor.
Students performed all the...
Students performed all the work on the '69 Mustang, including the paint and striping.
Clearbrook-
Gonvick High School Project Mustang
Body: '69 Mustang hardtop stripped, repaired, and refinished in Silver with Black stripes. Custom grille. Undercoated with POR 15
Interior: New black upholstery, headliner, and carpet. Includes Dakota Digital gauges and Custom Autosound USA radio, Grant steering wheel
Engine: 351 Windsor with Edelbrock RPM Performer package (aluminum heads and intake, 750-cfm carb), roller rocker arms, March Performance serpentine belt conversion, MSD electronic ignition, Hedman headers
Cooling: Edelbrock aluminum water pump, three-row radiator
Transmission: Rebuilt C4 automatic with B&M Shift Improvement kit, deep pan, and Hammer shifter
Rearend: Rebuilt 8-inch with 2.79 gears in Powertrax no-slip locking differential
Steering/Suspension: 1-inch drop front end, new control arms, urethane bushings, 1-inch sway bar, 17-inch chrome Bullitt wheels
Brakes: Stainless steel front disc brake conversion, stainless steel lines
Exhaust: Pypes stainless steel dual exhaust with chrome tips