Looks like you got yourself a 52 instead of a 51, or a 51 with a 52 front end. The hood, hood trim and hood latch panel confirm it as a 52. Is the fourth character in your serial number string a 2 or a 1? If it's a 2, then it's a 52. If it's a 1, then it's a 51 and the front body clip was changed out sometime in the past.







BTW, I have a decent used tailgate and the F-O-R-D letters that go into the holes below the hood if you're intersted.

 

Hey 51panel your right on the money. The S/N is F1R2HM45590. I was told 51 and it even has 51 on the bill of sale. I guess i should get that changed. Thanks for the info.

 

Man that is a solid looking driver Bud. Get her to go and stop than just drive it for a bit. She is just sweet and fine.

 

looking at the pix it looks like the front tread width is significantly wider than the rear. If so that can make the handling strange due to akerman geometry issues.