First test drive in 58

[Dutchbird]

Well today was the day. And after a little over a year, 2000 Hrs of labor, she was ready for a shake down run, and she drove just perfect, but wouldn't you know it!! It started raining as soon as we opened the garage door so it was top up for the first ride.
I waited a while pulled her out and shot a few pictures and got her dirty, no problems, every thing worked and she hauls the mails, no air or water leaks on top.
Still need two parts to have her perfect. But I'm going to rest now for awhile, while I search, half the fun right!
Charley

Hi Charley,

Everything is probably said befory, but she's gorgeous!!!
(did I mentioned beautiful...handsome...pretty...precious...good-looking???)
Have a lot of fun with it!

[Dutchbird]

Hey Guys,
I read somewhere the under the radio dash light (map light) was only available on the convertible Thunderbirds. Because there could not be a light overhead. I will see if I can find it!
Richard D. Hord

Hi Richard,

You're right!
http://automotivemileposts.com/tbird1958standardequipment.html
(the same for '59 & '60 Birds)

We have a post on Squarebirds, for those who want it in their hardtop/golde top:
http://www.squarebirds.org/maplight.htm

[Guest]

Really nice vert ...

truely a beautiful car. Now go drive it and enjoy. Mike

[DKheld]

Spectacular car - when can you start on mine?

As mentioned before that is a great color combo IMHO.

Eric,
Registry 5347

[Yellowbird]

Charley,
What fabulous job!!!!!!! She is absolutely stunning. I can only hope to have my '58 look so good. Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Leonard

[840 840 840]

Here are a few shots of the motor, from a few weeks back, it runs like a top. Notice the radiator is a Griffin from a 60 Bird and the AC has been up dated, sorry for the dust on everything. A trans cooler was added in front of the condensor. It will idle all day and not over heat and the heater will burn you out with the top down. Putting new condensor hose's in Monday and do a cleanup to the engine now that we have put 250 miles on her.
Only problem so far is speedometer jumps around some times, says your doing 110 when your going 45 to 50, then works great for awhile.
Charley