Log in

View Full Version : 1978 Mustang II restomod

GPR
10-14-2015, 09:59 AM
I took this in trade a few years ago toward some of the labor on restoring a Mustang. This is what we are starting with. The hood scoop has to go. I have always liked the Mustang II and I plan on making this my driver.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/02.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/02.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/05.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/05.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/06.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/06.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/10.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/10.jpg.html)
GPR
10-14-2015, 10:05 AM
I'm not sure what they were thinking or what they used to cut this hole in the hood.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8102_zpsdadf80e1.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8102_zpsdadf80e1.jpg.html)

After Brian worked on it

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8127_zpsf702c157.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8127_zpsf702c157.jpg.html)

The hood was sanded down to bare metal and all the old scoop holes welded.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8141_zps409081d6.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8141_zps409081d6.jpg.html)

It looked good before it was primed but it needs a lot of work

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8144_zps4ca72bfa.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8144_zps4ca72bfa.jpg.html)

After a little block sanding and bodywork

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8168_zpsb212d07e.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8168_zpsb212d07e.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8172_zps471767a8.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8172_zps471767a8.jpg.html)

I plan on using the Mach 1 scoop and once that comes in I will bolt it on and finish the bodywork. At this time the hood is low in front of the hole but the scoop should draw that up.

I sprayed a couple of coats of epoxy to seal the bodywork.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8257_zpsca37a452.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8257_zpsca37a452.jpg.html)

A had enough Slick Sand polyester primer for a couple of coats

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8356_zps6e2c5abd.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8356_zps6e2c5abd.jpg.html)

Block sanded with 80 and found one low spot that required a little filler

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8386_zps5646860a.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8386_zps5646860a.jpg.html)

Two coats of SPI Turbo primer

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8387_zps8d22db7c.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8387_zps8d22db7c.jpg.html)

The hood required a lot of work but I'm happy with it now.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8395_zps5f1f42aa.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8395_zps5f1f42aa.jpg.html)
GPR
10-14-2015, 10:08 AM
We have a new problem. This was filled with bondo. I had not planned on taking out the gas tank.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8288_zps430c14b0.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8288_zps430c14b0.jpg.html)

The rust was cut out.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9440_zps1cabc458.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9440_zps1cabc458.jpg.html)

Eleanor gas filler kit from Mustangs to Fear was welded in place. A gas filler neck from a 1968 Mustang was also used.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9448_zpsc6392dff.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9448_zpsc6392dff.jpg.html)

Billet gas cap from Mustangs Unlimited

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9446_zps74f63176.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9446_zps74f63176.jpg.html)
GPR
10-14-2015, 10:12 AM
I wanted a cleaner looking taillight panel so the Ford holes were welded and ground down

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9434_zpsa346e7d2.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9434_zpsa346e7d2.jpg.html)

The bodywork is finished on the taillight panel

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9558_zps12f2f5d2.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9558_zps12f2f5d2.jpg.html)

Scottrods rear bumper fits great. The original bumper brackets were cut off and two holes were drilled in the trunk for a test fit. Add a few more bolts inside the trunk and a couple on each quarter and your done.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9588_zpsc13cc7bc.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN9588_zpsc13cc7bc.jpg.html)
GPR
10-14-2015, 12:33 PM
We found a 8" rear from a 1965 Mustang. The spring perches are a little wider on the rear but we made it fit. I ordered a 1" lowering kit.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0166_zpsc13b33c8.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0166_zpsc13b33c8.jpg.html)

I installed a Rod & Custom front suspension in my 1968 Coupe and upgraded to Baer brakes so I used the original ones that came with the kit on the II.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0174_zpsacce4628.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0174_zpsacce4628.jpg.html)

The front fiberglass bumper was to wide and shaped wrong at the bottom

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0278_zps37097cf2.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0278_zps37097cf2.jpg.html)

I cut and taped a piece of aluminum

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0279_zps969b79d9.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0279_zps969b79d9.jpg.html)

Added three layers of fiberglass mat

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0286_zps7a8515ac.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0286_zps7a8515ac.jpg.html)

Removed the aluminum

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0288_zpsd0ebce8a.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0288_zpsd0ebce8a.jpg.html)

Still needs more work

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0298_zpscd68a2f1.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0298_zpscd68a2f1.jpg.html)

When I'm finished the valance and bumper will be one piece.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0336_zps3fb08af5.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0336_zps3fb08af5.jpg.html)

I added 3 layers of fiberglass mat on each end and now all I have to do is fit the center piece and a lot of bodywork and I will have a one piece bumper and valance!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0340_zpsaa6d5b81.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0340_zpsaa6d5b81.jpg.html)

Test fitting the one piece bumper and valance

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0403_zpshzr1bw3h.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0405_zpsappvvpt9.jpg

I still have a little work to do to get it lined up to the fenders

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0406_zps3uzli8st.jpg
awr68
10-14-2015, 08:21 PM
Nice Fab/Body work!
waynieZ
10-15-2015, 04:21 PM
Wow what a differance already. Nice job.
GPR
10-16-2015, 07:16 AM
We had a few rust holes in the floor that were cut out and new metal added.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0260_zpsfecdcbdf.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0260_zpsfecdcbdf.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0264_zpscaac976c.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0264_zpscaac976c.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0293_zps608fcbf6.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0293_zps608fcbf6.jpg.html)

Floor was sanded and epoxy primed black

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0309_zps7cffd224.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0309_zps7cffd224.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0310_zpse970c869.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0310_zpse970c869.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0313_zps45705e1c.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0313_zps45705e1c.jpg.html)

Because this has a T-top we are going to add subframe connectors and a roll bar from S&W. The roll bar was sanded and epoxy primed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0337_zpsf13dd987.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0337_zpsf13dd987.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0338_zpsa55fbf1f.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0338_zpsa55fbf1f.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0649_zpsoh5un7bl.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0661_zpsio6qfvna.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0665_zpsshetz1zq.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0667_zpsar2q6bwr.jpg
GPR
10-16-2015, 07:26 AM
The major bodywork is finished

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0670_zpshnemds2r.jpg

Two coats of SPI epoxy

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0676_zpso116qlrc.jpg

Block sanded and a little more bodywork

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0681_zpscbcvfh9p.jpg

More epoxy

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0686_zps6bgax5en.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0831_zpsth8b9yvj.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0833_zpskkujl1e8.jpg

I block sanded again and sprayed white epoxy. I have decided on a color SPI Orange. It is a little darker in person

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0931_zpsbez77si9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0933_zpscmpymy3m.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0929_zpsszevse4i.jpg
WSSix
10-16-2015, 09:36 AM
Nice color choice, Rusty! Good luck with the build.
GPR
10-16-2015, 10:38 AM
The fenders have been sprayed white epoxy almost ready for SPI orange paint then I decided to fill in the marker lights

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8534_zps99de6e4b.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/rusty428cj/media/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN8534_zps99de6e4b.jpg.html)

Ready for more primer. The wheels are off of Brian's 94 but the offset is wrong and the front cap won't go over the spindle

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0853_zpsgyhjjbnf.jpg

I sprayed two coats of SPI epoxy primer on the body and roll bar

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0946_zps3vjcqe2l.jpg

I finished the bodywork and sprayed a coat of epoxy to seal it before spraying urethane primer

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1024_zps7kicilmu.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1026_zpsgwu0gvc9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1027_zpsj9ifkqap.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1028_zpseupasqqj.jpg

Two coats of SPI Turbo primer

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1030_zpslropjfx2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1031_zpsw0gv7nzi.jpg

The body has been block sanded and I sprayed a couple more coats of SPI Turbo urethane primer.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1066_zpswsxacakv.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1067_zpse52iyzec.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1070_zpsyxkq9j1r.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1071_zpshv19jmqi.jpg
GPR
10-16-2015, 10:45 AM
The wheels and tires are will be using

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1522_zpsyspkw5ur.jpg
Moose
10-16-2015, 11:24 AM
my parents had a Mustang II Cobra when I was kid.. I'll be following along on this build..
GPR
11-07-2015, 10:44 AM
I decided it was time to upgrade the engine compartment

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1729_zps88fmyrxv.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1779_zpskle3pcpr.jpg

Two coats of SPI black epoxy

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1909_zpsjamlf9kg.jpg

The spring perches on the 1965 rear end are 1/4" to wide on each side so we added metal to the bottom of the perch with an offset hole.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2126_zpsmpwulwwe.jpg

New rear shackles and test fitting the rear after the leaf springs were sanded and epoxy primed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2198_zpspg4ynro4.jpg

It is hard to believe but new motor mounts for a V8 are not available so we made our own. We had a set Rod & Custom small block motor mounts that we did not use on another project. They were cut down and welded to the frame

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2177_zpsuhmuvelr.jpg

We will add another brace after the firewall is modified for the AOD and we install the engine and trans again

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2189_zpsqfz5lrfn.jpg
Bakaruda
11-09-2015, 02:43 PM
I like these cars. Some call them the low spot in the life of Mustang. I think when built right they are cool.
GPR
12-01-2015, 06:27 AM
I ordered a spoiler from Mustangs Unlimited but after test fitting I realized I never did like how the spoiler is on the quarter panel and how tall it was.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1107_zpsde04boom.jpg

I cut it down and added a little fiberglass

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1669_zpskeiqxosn.jpg

After some bodywork

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1681_zpsubqctw7p.jpg

Epoxy primed

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1714_zpst4allurx.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN1747_zpskpl5kt4q.jpg

We had to do a little rust repair to the hatch and bodywork and I painted the back side SPI Orange. The spoiler was bolted and fiberglass mat was added and needed bodywork before the back was painted.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2142_zpsaqoo67f4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2320_zpst3un3vom.jpg
GPR
12-01-2015, 06:30 AM
I painted a few more parts

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0989_zpsp1yrhw65.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0990_zpsjgtueiek.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN0992_zpspdyrz2ji.jpg
GPR
12-01-2015, 01:10 PM
The AOD is a tight fit so to make it easier to install we modified the trans tunnel

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2228_zpsnq3wvprl.jpg

Also decided to fill some of the holes in the firewall

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2338_zps6ho6g1f6.jpg

I also didn't like all the holes in the fender aprons

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2339_zpsel5nyboj.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2340_zpsaakjqo0d.jpg

Crossmember was also modified for more clearance

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2229_zps6h3qfioj.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2341_zpssjkdclpq.jpg
syborg tt
12-01-2015, 06:06 PM
Love it


Marty-MJ
www.garagescene.net
GPR
12-03-2015, 06:03 AM
We made our own trans crossmember using some of the original and a thick piece of metal

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2344_zpshhmknisz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2345_zpsdbd9z6og.jpg
GPR
12-06-2015, 11:31 AM
I finished the bodywork in the engine compartment and sprayed a couple coats of SPI black epoxy. Next day I sprayed SPI Turbo urethane primer.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2355_zpsvbukwczd.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2359_zpsynjyxleg.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2366_zpsxprqkq7d.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2369_zpsz8ol78kz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2370_zpsgqowloih.jpg
GPR
03-30-2016, 02:21 PM
I started working on my II again. I painted the back side of the doors

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2862_zpsn35oer2r.jpg
GPR
03-31-2016, 08:45 AM
Two coats of SPI white epoxy. A little wet sanding and this weekend it will be SPI Orange

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2865_zps46zg9zyn.jpg
GPR
04-02-2016, 03:25 PM
Three coats SPI Orange and three coats of SPI Universal clear.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2867_zpscrbnrbtx.jpg
GPR
04-10-2016, 10:37 AM
I had not planned on putting the Mustang II on a rotisserie but the more I thought about it I could not just leave the undercarriage looking like this. Brian and I (mostly Brian) fit it on the rotisserie yesterday.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2880_zps6egxsw0l.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2881_zpspooh1nj2.jpg
GPR
04-10-2016, 12:35 PM
Yesterday I sprayed 3 coats of SPI orange waiting 45 min between coats and today I sprayed 3 coats of SPI Universal clear waiting 30 min between coats.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2884_zpsbz5r4meh.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2886_zpsfbiggqk7.jpg
WSSix
04-10-2016, 06:59 PM
You're going all out on this Mustang II, Rusty. It's going to be great when finished. I was at the Coker Tire show last weekend. There was a King Cobra present. Looked great. I can't remember the last time I saw one of those in person.
GPR
04-14-2016, 03:03 PM
The seats came in today from Mustangs Unlimited still waiting for the seat tracks

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2903_zpsoi6k1x0w.jpg
GPR
05-04-2016, 08:16 AM
Last weekend I decided it was time to spray a couple coats of SPI black epoxy on the undercarriage

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2973_zpsnilofzvr.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN2981_zpszdorzw3y.jpg
GPR
05-14-2016, 11:47 AM
Today I painted the hinges. I know its not a lot of progress but you can't install the doors, hood or rear hatch without them

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3049_zpskrap3irf.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3048_zps0u70jzqw.jpg
Zspoiler
05-14-2016, 02:47 PM
Your car reminds me of the 1978 Monroe Mustang II " Handler" car.It was a cover car for Hot Rod Magazine and many other publications.http://WWW.CJponeyparts.com/variations/Monroe*handler-Mustang/
Boss 5.0
05-14-2016, 06:49 PM
I love how this is coming out.

One of these days I would love for you to explain how when you use plastic sheeting on door/window opening you get it so taught and wrinkle free!
GPR
05-21-2016, 02:22 PM
Two coats of SPI white epoxy. Almost ready for paint

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3101_zpsjnxmzqek.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3103_zpsftv96pzb.jpg
GPR
07-17-2016, 08:46 AM
After I block sanded the body I found a few areas that needed a little more work.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3462_zps0kylx3b1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3463_zpsbhyve907.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3464_zpswod1f9bw.jpg

I had forgotten how hard it is to see any imperfections in white primer. I should have sprayed gray and the white just before spraying orange.

Two more coats of epoxy

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3470_zpsqk3meyrk.jpg
GPR
08-18-2016, 05:11 AM
I wet sanded the body with 400 getting it ready for paint

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3588_zps8do2rcft.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3590_zpstquqez3z.jpg

Windshield was removed

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3625_zpshurw8kx4.jpg

Rear glass installed in the hatch

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3623_zpsyq9gvtqg.jpg
Centerforce
08-19-2016, 10:49 AM
Great attention to body work! Taking the time to mold and shave everything is gonna make this look A+ when its all painted in that nice orange!
Timberline
08-20-2016, 09:43 AM
Love this build my first car was actually a 78 cobra


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
GPR
08-20-2016, 09:50 AM
Today Brian cleaned all that nasty mess from under the windshield.

No rust in the right windshield pillar.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3654_zpsb6bxz4bb.jpg

He found this on the drivers side.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3655_zpsvaevb4bh.jpg

Brian cut out the rust and welded in a patch.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3659_zpsvdwfipld.jpg
GPR
08-23-2016, 05:39 AM
I finished wet sanding all that is left before paint is for Brian to tape and I will be spraying orange this weekend.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3673_zpsnveexpyd.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3675_zps8ql4mp2j.jpg
GPR
08-26-2016, 04:37 AM
Yesterday before Brian went home he got the body ready for paint. Finished taping, moved it in the booth and wiped it down with SPI wax and grease remover.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3695_zps9b3mywf3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3697_zpsmkrvftq0.jpg

I got up early and was at the shop at 5:30 and mixed up a cup of reduced SPI white epoxy and sprayed a sealer coat. Around 9 I will start spraying orange.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3699_zpsalowl1w2.jpg
GPR
08-26-2016, 12:38 PM
Three coats of SPI Orange tomorrow I will spray clear.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3701_zpsw5qx9f4u.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3703_zpsf49fenxk.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3704_zpsyujk6xg1.jpg
GPR
08-27-2016, 07:23 AM
Three coats of SPI Universal Clear

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3725_zpsxgfmqy6p.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3731_zpskbyi2igq.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3718_zpsltwjxjwf.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3714_zpsa0oks7j1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3711_zps5pjoqvkd.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3710_zpskf7p28jx.jpg
Centerforce
08-30-2016, 10:50 AM
Looks AWESOME, and we're not only saying that because its the same orange as our clutches :D
Josh@Ridetech
09-01-2016, 10:15 AM
Keep it updated! It'll be cool to see something really different!
GPR
09-16-2016, 07:53 AM
It is hard to get the true color. In the booth it's to light and outside looks red. It is somewhere in between. Brian has been wet sanding the body and should start buffing soon.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3735_zpsvex53yhq.jpg
GPR
09-17-2016, 04:53 PM
Brian wet sanding

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN3765_zpsaf6s2ubn.jpg
GPR
10-22-2016, 02:20 PM
Yesterday I sprayed two coats of SPI white epoxy and this morning three coats of SPI Orange followed with three coats of SPI Universal clear late this afternoon.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN4002_zpsg1je0tk9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN4006_zps04y4frji.jpg
GPR
12-10-2016, 10:28 AM
Brian finished wet sanding and buffing the body and hatch.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN4153_zpsshtu67kz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/DSCN4114_zpse6uzazsr.jpg
Try2paz
12-10-2016, 02:36 PM
wow that came out beautiful!
Mikael A
12-11-2016, 04:58 AM
you tell Brian he's doing a good job..paint looks great.
GPR
12-16-2016, 09:40 AM
Off the rotisserie and the assembly begins

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%201_zps0uyqnsmx.jpg
Josh@Ridetech
12-16-2016, 10:33 AM
Nice! There are very few of these in nice shape out there. I can't wait to see what you do with it.
GPR
12-19-2016, 01:21 PM
Today we lined up the rear hatch and bumper

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%204_zpscsaryef7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%205_zpsf9dxvptk.jpg
GPR
12-21-2016, 09:39 AM
Test fitting the Corbeau seats.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Seats_zpslysikcef.jpg

The seats are hitting the door bar and the brackets don't line up with the holes in the floor. We need to drill new holes 1 1/2" toward the transmission tunnel in the seat brackets.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/seat%20bracket_zps6v3vt6c8.jpg

It's a tight fit but with the new holes in the brackets they fit.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2010_zpscz8d1siz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2012_zps303y4bht.jpg

We were going to use this Flaming River steering wheel in a 1967 Fairlane race car with a quick release Flaming River column but it was to close to the dash board. A couple of years ago Brian gave me a Momo steering wheel for my 1968 restomod Coupe for Christmas and the adapter would not work with the Ididit steering column. They both work great on the Mustang II steering column and I had some left over Dynamat from the 1968 Coupe.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%203_zpsznmdm6iw.jpg
GPR
12-23-2016, 05:35 AM
Brian finished buffing and we installed the drivers door getting ready to install the right door today.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2014_zpsjta1nena.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2013_zpsbkgphn24.jpg
GPR
12-23-2016, 01:14 PM
Right door installed


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2015_zpsxebybvra.jpg
Bakaruda
12-27-2016, 05:35 PM
Guys that is a neat car. Good to see someone build something different.
GPR
01-04-2017, 08:59 AM
Outside you can see it is orange

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2016_zpsux6kikjp.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2017_zpsk1swfjvl.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2019_zpsprsriibz.jpg

Moved to the storage/assembly shop.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2021_zps8jo71lh3.jpg
GPR
01-28-2017, 11:41 AM
Brian finished wet sanding the fenders next week time for buffing.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/Mustang%20II%2025_zps62cvndjg.jpg
GPR
04-03-2017, 12:00 PM
Brian finished buffing the fenders and hood and has them on the car. Waiting to finish the grille panel and front bumper.

Not sure what I did wrong yesterday but here are the photos

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/20170324_123521_resized_zpssaei4886.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/20170403_102510_resized_zpsjzq7ki9h.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/20170403_102531_resized_zpsatccivle.jpg
tgvettes
04-03-2017, 07:01 PM
I really like this project. cool with something different!
gmc
07-08-2017, 12:44 PM
Any progress? This one takes me back, my first car was a red 77 hatchback.
GPR
08-23-2017, 07:53 AM
We were moving cars around and I thought it was a good time for a couple of photos while it was outside.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/41_zpswrpf6qff.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/40_zps5oji53sn.jpg
YAMATHUMP
08-30-2017, 06:27 PM
Looking Good!
GPR
11-24-2017, 07:04 AM
I made a little progress on the Mustang II project. I have the gas tank installed

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/45_zpsdacxc56p.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/46_zpsnd8qc9jq.jpg

I modified fuel filler tubes from an Eleanor project that we didn't use to fit the II

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/49_zpssxkof4mm.jpg

Epoxy primed

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/51_zpsqlxagh0u.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/52_zpslktnoojm.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/53_zpsnloot7aj.jpg

Front sway bar installed

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/48_zps3ucf29ix.jpg

Rear brakes left over from a Wilwood upgrade on another project

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/47_zpsplm4rnht.jpg

Gas cap

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/55_zpsk7pgwica.jpg
GPR
02-10-2018, 02:57 PM
I just traded a C6 transmission and converter that was used in my race car (now use a C4 behind the 428 CJ) for this 302 that has very few hours on it to install in my Mustang II

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/324_zpswda3ha7d.jpeg
GPR
02-17-2018, 06:49 PM
Today the 302 was dropped off at the shop. It was in a Mustang that was upgraded to a 427 small block.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/329_zpsuzyobgsp.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/328_zps8f9bxik4.jpg

Looks new

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/330_zpssjbmkokv.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/334_zpsuxi8yxex.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/331_zpsbwwkw6ar.jpg

I need to order a flex plate for the AOD. I'm also going to replace the water pump, harmonic balancer, fuel pump, intake and valve covers plus the correct oil pan for the Mustang II.

Now I need to get busy installing brake lines and fuel line before I install the engine.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/339_zpsrdg0defi.jpg
GPR
03-24-2018, 07:15 PM
I ordered a Ron Francis wiring harness and after looking at the back of the dash and seeing wires held together with masking tape I decided to remove everything and start over.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/343_zpsu7scifq1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/344_zpsz7hr95g7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/345_zpsispl7cy4.jpg

I will have to enlarge the openings to fit the new 4" Speedhut speedometer and tach that I ordered

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/350_zpsjmoat3k8.png

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/351_zpsylzgkdws.png

I will also have to modify the dash to fit the 2 1/16" gauges

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/353_zpssecclywl.png

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/352_zpszdx3cbkm.png

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/354_zpst7vf2fzr.png
Zspoiler
03-25-2018, 09:35 AM
Do remember the 1978 Mustang Monroe Handler of that era.
GPR
04-23-2018, 05:18 AM
Speedhut gauges came in. Each gauge has a bag with wires, sending unit or whatever is needed to hook it up.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/368_zpsejpuzvrz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/369_zpsswpgelcu.jpg

I have to modify the back side of the gauge panel.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/366_zpsco4xhycw.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/367_zpsagpmvtmq.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/373_zpsjv5i8ecm.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/372_zpseziuo04f.jpg

I used a half round file to enlarge the hole.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/374_zpsnwb4hlua.jpg

I still have to paint the dash trim black

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/376_zpsubtp8mif.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/377_zps4goxpzdu.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/378_zpspx1opzu0.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/379_zpsa1wmyzbv.jpg
GPR
05-14-2018, 12:58 PM
Had to make a filler piece to fit the Vintage Air controls

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/380_zpsiferhotb.jpg

Sanded and painted

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/383_zpsc3htvetl.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/382_zps5h6q6xxp.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/381_zpshzwr3r1c.jpg

The stainless goes on next.

The Vintage Air fits with the modified tunnel and the hoses will go out the side. We have to make brackets since there is no kit for a Mustang II

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/384_zps2bvq8cod.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/386_zpszk60wrpm.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/387_zpsbhaadvig.jpg
GPR
09-30-2018, 12:15 PM
I have decided it's time to start working on this project again. Dashboard is ready to install but need to fabricate brackets for the AC first.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/393_zpskavplkgr.jpg
GPR
01-11-2019, 05:46 AM
I don't think I showed how it looks with the taillights installed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/395_zpsnb9zvekl.jpg
WSSix
01-13-2019, 06:39 AM
Looking good, Rusty! Glad you're making progress on this one.
GPR
04-29-2020, 06:53 AM
The engine looked great until we took it apart and found the machine work was not done properly and is mostly junk. We have decided to rebuild the original engine.

I'm not finished making all the brake lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/365_zpsooqhftym.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/rusty428cj/1978%20Mustang%20II/364_zpspgnxsh9i.jpg