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I've been looking for a Squarebird for several years, and hadn't yet found the right car. I didn't want to undo things other people had done poorly. I found a 1960 with sunroof that has been taken apart. Body work done. Suspension. Brakes. All the chrome has been removed. Windows out. Engine and tranny out. Interior out. Dash out. I'm thinking this might be the car for me, because I can have it done right--but I'm clueless on where to begin, who to contact--I have a place to store the car while it's being worked on. My hubby can do some of the work, although he's not too thrilled since he already has too many projects. What should I look for in this car? Anything to shy away from? Ballpark range of what it will cost to rebuild motor and tranny? Anyone know a good T-Bird specialist in southern California? Any information at all would be greatly appreciated. I'm a total newbie to this, but I like things done right.
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RE: Help!
Welcome to the site.
We are here to help.
The 1958-1960 Thunderbirds were well made reliable cars. Their strength and their weak point is the unibody construction. The strength is that they are very solid and have no rattles from the body despite the years. The weakness is that if there is rust, in the inner rockers, it is difficult to repair.
Engine rebuilds can vary form $1000 to $4000. It depends on how worn the engine is and what you want to have done.
Tranny rebuilds can vary from $1000 to $2000. Luckily these transmissions are relatively simple. someone recently posted a mail order company that will exchange your transmission for a rebuilt one.
Alexander
1959 Hardtop
1960 Golde Top
Alexander
1959 Hard Top
1960 Golde Top
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RE: Help!
there is a good t-bird guy in so. cal. nicks t-birds in panarama city. he's located in the valley north of los angeles. in my dealings w/ him, he seemed a bit pricey but i hear he does very good work. kind of an on again off again character, but knows a lot about t-birds. you might try giving him a call and asking him your questions.14649 lanark st, unit b, panarama city ca. 91402. ph #818 7808383. good luck
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RE: Help!
Hi,
I would contact Ken Harkema on kensklassics@cox.net as he restores Convertibles to a very high standard.
Kev
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