New Life For an Old Car: Restoring a 1967 Mustang Coupe
Candy-apple red with power and style to spare, this 1967 Mustang coupe was a pure joy.
This 1967 Mustang was the apple of my eye
I found my 1967 Mustang coupe (#65A) west of Edmonton back in 1994 and, just like that country song “Another Man’s Gold” by Canada’s very own Dean Brody, “I towed that Mustang home.” The drivetrain and motor appeared to be in fair condition, although many replacement items were needed and some cosmetic considerations had to be addressed; however, the rusted parts elsewhere and the faded “reddish” exterior were calling out for a complete restoration. Upon checking the paint tag later, I discovered the official exterior colour to be Candy-Apple Red T with a 2A Black interior—which proved to be a stunning combination once the restoration was complete.
In 1967, Ford changed the body styling from the original 1964 to 1966 model years, offering a somewhat larger design with improved features and characteristics. In all, 325,853 hard-top models were manufactured with only 20,000 sold in Canada—at a base price of $3,000. The only options offered were an automatic transmission, front disc brakes, power steering and a deluxe hood complete with dual-lit, louvered signal lights—better known as the “California hood.” To date, I’ve only ever seen two other of these candy-apple red units on the road.
In due course, I took off everything that was removable from the motor and interior for restoration. Front kick plates and the rusted-out “Flintstone” floor boards were replaced. The neat rear quarters were air-chiseled and totally redone before being reinstalled. My biggest challenge here was marrying the new inner and outer wheel wells and quarter panels (fenders) to align with the doors and trunk; my auto-body training and knowledge of welding really came into play. All metal parts were sandblasted, rust-treated, etch-coated and primed. Finally, the car was ready for a new windshield; all the other glass was okay.
The result of four long years and 800 documented hours of work
Replacing the door hinges, bushings and pins was my second biggest challenge. And then it was time for a brand-new coat of candy-apple red and numerous clear coats for added protection and a dazzling finish. Next came the installation of a new headliner, upholstery, floor mats and other interior detailing. DT Mustang of Lethbridge, Alberta, provided me with lots of helpful advice, as well as many new and NOS parts.
Some of the added extras I included were an Edelbrock intake complete with a four-barrel Holley and a chrome air breather; chrome wheel well mouldings; a matching passenger-side mirror; a “Pony Corral” grille light; halogen sealed beams, chrome stone guards; and a dual exhaust system.
After four long years and 800 documented hours of work, she was ready to roll on four new Michelin tires and wheel discs.
Registration and licensing was an issue, as my “Candy-Stang” had no paper trail in Canada to speak of; however, everything got resolved one day prior to her first parade appearance in Wainwright, Alberta, in 1998. That little beauty went on to provide me with many fond memories from various road trips, “show and shines” and parades. We even managed to win a number of awards together. All in all, bringing that 1967 Mustang back to her former glory was a labour of love and a terrific experience.
I parted with my Mustang upon leaving Alberta some 15 years ago, and I still miss her dearly, especially on nice spring and summer days. I hope her new owners appreciate her as much as I did.
