4. Eliminate Points and Condenser in Distributor
This is a no-brainer. In the 21st century, why would you bother with points and a condenser in a regularly driven vintage Mustang? The benefits of this upgrade dramatically outweigh the effort and financial outlay required for the conversion. A PerTronix Ignitor or Ignitor II is ideal for any vintage Mustang street car, as it adds electronic-ignition reliability and simplicity all hidden under a stock-looking distributor cap. For details on how to install one, check out Senior Editor Jim Smart's review in our October '03 issue.
5. Gear-Ratio Change/Limited Slip Differential
Along with getting rid of the points and condenser in your distributor, this change really is invisible. A Limited Slip differential and a gear change will enhance the driving experience of any vintage Mustang. Currie Enterprises offers a Torque Sensing Differential (TSD) for any 8- or 9-inch rearend. Also consider gear ratios, especially if you upgrade to an overdrive transmission. For the typical street car, axle ratios in the 3.00:1-3.70:1 range are the best way to go. A 3.25, 3.40, or 3.50 gear in an 8- or 9-inch are good ratios to think about. For 9-inch pumpkins, more than a dozen ratios exist in the 3.00:1-4.00:1 range, so your choices are extensive.
6. Upgraded Driveshaft
If you opt for a lower (numerically higher) gear ratio, higher driveshaft speeds will result. Regardless of whether you go with an AOD or a T5, the gear ratio dictates the speed of the driveshaft. If you do an overdrive trans and freshen up your car's rearend with a Limited Slip diff, new gears, or both, upgrading to a better driveshaft will complete the drivetrain picture in your car. This is a good idea if you intend to use your vintage Mustang for high-speed road trips or cross-country journeys. Consider an aluminum unit from suppliers such as Denny's Driveshaft Service, Mustangs Plus, and Inland Empire Driveline. Also check out Senior Editor Smart's extensive examination of the driveshaft in our May '02 issue.
7. Sound-System Upgrade
The AM radio in most vintage Mustangs isn't much to listen to. Having FM reception and a CD player isn't a big deal these days in just about any new car. As for our beloved classic Mustangs, it's easy to get FM and CD in the car, too. And it can all look virtually stock, save for a slightly altered-looking head unit in the dash. Trunk-mounted CD changers and good-sounding speakers are also possible. Custom Autosound is a good place to begin shopping for these components.