Hidden Treasures - Screaming Stallions

Tune Up For Your Tuner
Hey, what's a classic car without classic tunes? Back in the Nov. '99 issue, we went to Antique Automobile Radio (AAR) [(727) 785-8733] and had the company update the radio for the Lazarus Project to AM/FM/eight-track with CD capability. This keeps the interior of our concours Mach looking factory stock without torturing us with AM talk radio.

Whole New Deal
For some, the crate engine idea is the answer. Ford offers several choices in crate engines that will give you a basically stock look with all the late-model upgrades. Mustangs Plus [(800) 999-4289] now offers a balancer that allows you to use your stock V-belt pulleys, thus effectively hiding the 5.0 under your carb and intake. The only change will be to balance the stock 289 flywheel to the factory late-model specs.

Wheel Of Fortune
In the last couple years, we have seen the advent of the 15-inch Styled Steel wheels. This is not really a hidden modification, but it is a stealthy one to be sure. This has allowed the Mustang owner to get a more performance-styled tire for his '65-'69 Mustang. Liking the idea, we have decided to get Specialty Wheels [(503) 668-4793] to build us a '70 Styled Steel on a 15-inch rim with a semicorrect 15-inch Mopar or Chevy trim ring. The fronts will be 7 inches wide and the rears will be 8 inches, if possible.
This will give us the look of 1970 with the advantage of BFGoodrich rubber.

Sparky
When it comes to hiding performance, the Pertronix [(800) 827-3758] Ignitor is the only way to go. It fits under the distributor cap and is super easy to install. Pertronix also has a hotter coil and black wires available to help further confound the observer.

Rad Cooler
Many vendors offer radiators with a larger core for the Mustang. This will help keep that new engine alive for years to come. When you're finished with the install, add a bottle of Water Wetter available from Summit [(800) 230-3030]-just in case.

Train Kept A Rollin'
The valvetrain is another area that has seen great benefit from roller technology. The one thing you'll need to be wary of is clearance with the older '65-'66 valve covers. Review these facts with your service representative before you order, no matter which valve covers you run.

Suspension Bridge
The suspension on your Mustang can definitely use some help, particularly if it is still running on the original bushings. The old, tired rubber is just not going to cut the mustard. Even new rubber is soft compared to what is available from the new urethane products. Springs are another issue as well. A great deal of handling prowess can be gained from just these two items.