Shelby Misinformation
Well, a correction is in order. In the "Factory Freaks!" story in the June '01 issue of Mustang Monthly (page 23), there was some misinformation on the Shelby story. I, Jeff Ford, editor of this publication, take full and complete responsibility for this error. Though Jim Smart and I shared writing duties on the "Factory Freaks!" lead story, I wrote the Shelby info. Though I said what I did in innocence, all of the information was provided by an owner, and it has been brought to my attention by eagle-eyed Shelby owners and members of the Shelby American Automobile Club that my info is incorrect.
For the record, 289 4Vs were never placed in Mustangs bound for the Shelby plant in Los Angeles; nor were 289 2Vs installed in these Mustangs. The only engine ever placed between the shock towers of the '66 GT350 was the 289 Hi-Po. My information was erroneously placed. Also, according to sources within the Shelby fold, the problem with the Q engines was in 1968, not 1967. Now that was a typo. I truly apologize for any misconceptions this has caused the greater hobby.
More Mustang I Rare Photos
Boy, do our readers come out of the woodwork when we touch on something they hold close to their hearts. After mentioning the ultracool (and ultrarare) Mustang I prototype in two previous issues (Apr. and Dec. 2000) and showing our readers some never-before-seen photos, what happens? We receive even cooler never-before-seen photos. We heard from Bill Wells of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, recently and he let us in on a little secret. Back in 1963 he was dating Sue Misch. While we're sure Sue is important to Bill (after all, they've been happily married for 35 years!), more importantly to the story is Sue's father, Herbert Misch. Ah, a name you might remember, no? Herbert Misch was vice president of engineering in 1963 for Ford Motor Company and along with Gene Bordinat-vice president of styling at the time-played a rather extraordinary role in the development of the Mustang I. Mr. Misch brought the Mustang I home and took his daughter and Bill Wells for several rides in the Mustang I, including to school (imagine pulling up at the old high school in 1963 in THAT!). Bill Wells also had the opportunity to witness the Mustang I at speed at Waterford Hills Race Course in July 1963. He passed on a few photos of his own collection to share with the rest of his fellow readers. Thanks, Bill. It's a rare glimpse into the Mustang's history.
FAQ
This section will appear in Pony Tales every month and will contain information on frequently asked questions. Some items will rotate out, while others will remain here for the foreseeable future.
Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation
Carroll's Children's Foundation is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that supports organ donation and transplant research for children. The organization has a quarterly newsletter and sponsors all types of events throughout the year. For more information or to make a donation, contact the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation, 19021 S. Figueroa St., Gardena, CA 90248; (310) 327-5072; www.carrollshelby.org.
Factory Invoices
Lois Eminger has only Dearborn '69, '70, '71, '72, and '73 invoices for Mustangs and Metuchen '70 invoices. Invoices are $35, and proof of ownership, such as a vehicle registration or a copy of the title, is required. A rubbing from your data plate or VIN would be helpful as well. You may contact Lois at P.O. Box 220, Dearborn, MI 48121-0220.
Vin Info: Ford Customer Service number
To request a "History 999" report for your American-made Mustang, call the American Ford Customer Assistance line at (800) 392-3673. If your Mustang was made in Canada, you will need to call the Canadian Customer Service line at (800) 565-3673 and request a Broadcast Sheet. According to Ford PR sources, information is available for only '67-'88 models for right now. You will need to provide them with only your car's VIN. They will fax or mail you a complete list of options for the car.