Nearly two years ago, Ron Bramlett of Mustangs Plus got the crazy-but-incredible idea of bringing a smashed-up and rusted Mustang back to life. In his private salvage yard was a Vintage Burgundy '65 Mustang six-cylinder fastback, a parts car that had been picked apart. It was a goner and seemingly beyond salvage with a smashed front end, a bent framerail, and rusted-out floors and quarter-panels.
Terry Simpson at The Restomod Shop surveyed Ron's fastback and concluded it could be saved. All Terry needed was time, a committed team of talented professionals, and Dynacorn sheetmetal components from Mustangs Plus. In two months, The Restomod Shop had a completed body ready for final prep and paint.
In our last Project Reclaim update, we installed a 22-gallon fuel tank and Tank Armor protection, along with brake and fuel lines ("How to Install a Fuel Tank," June '08, p. 60). This month, we're installing a Total Control Products coilover front suspension, available from Mustangs Plus. We're also installing a TCP power rack-and-pinion steering system.
Never has there been a better time to build a restomod Mustang because the aftermarket industry gives us so much to work with. Mustangs Plus has been committed to hot ponycar performance for 27 years with no end in sight. Mustangs Plus and The Restomod Shop continue to make Mustang dreams come true for a lot of people.
Total Control Products' control...
Total Control Products' control arms articulate with rugged Heim joints that are easy to adjust and replace. They make alignment a cinch because no shims are required. This is the last suspension system your classic Mustang will ever need thanks to a good-looking, hammered-metal powdercoat finish. Founded in the '90s to improve classic Mustang handling, TCP is now part of Chris Alston's Chassisworks.
Power rack-and-pinion steering...
Power rack-and-pinion steering complements TCP's coilover suspension system. Handling is light years beyond the old worm-and-sector steering.
After methodical detailing...
After methodical detailing and inspection, Richard Bramlett begins work installing our TCP front suspension. Heim joints have been lubricated with chassis lube and are good to go. Lower control arms go in first.