Got this truck last spring when I was looking for a descent start for my first project, seemed to be in typical condition for being so old I thought considering I was gona replace the engine, transmission, suspension and all other major parts. Im not to sure on how difficult this is going to be, but i plan on putting a 351w, move column shift to the floor with a 5spd, new mustang II IFS 2" drop, drop scackles on the back, move gas tank under bed and have already rebuilt the rear end with 3:50 gears (hope that was a good choice). Im not planning to do a 100% rebuild i just want to make it look good, sound good and go fast.. Any advice would be great im new with all of this

 

Welcome to the forum!

My computer it throwing a fit or something. Your picture isn't showing up for me.

The 65's are a good looking truck. And the short box trucks look even better.

You build plan sounds pretty good. There are a couple things I would look into.

1. The Mustang II front end is a great set up. But There is something that is even better and a whole cheaper. Do some searching on the 2003+ Crown Victoria front suspension swap. This is a very popular swap. The 2003+ Crown Vics & Mercury Grand Marquis had a bolt in front suspension set up. They have an aluminum crossmember, rack & pinion steering and large brakes with the 5 x 4 1/2" bolt pattern. The bonus is they were designed for a vehicle that weighed close to what your truck weighs. In my area you can pick up the whole front suspension assembly for $300-$400. And no need for dropped spindles with this set up.

2. Your gear choice is ok. But with a 5spd a 3.70-3.89 gear would have given you a lot more go for the dough. The 3.50 is a good all around/highway gear. But the best gear choice also depends on what size tires you are planning to run. The taller the tire you run the steeper the gears should be.

Keep us posted on your project!! Post any progress you make. And post lots of pictures!!

 

I highly suggest you post in the forum section (61-66) focused on these trucks. Although not impossible, grafting a 351W and T5 or similar will be involved, to say the least.

"i just want to make it look good, sound good and go fast.. Any advice would be great im new with all of this"

You need to stop first. A complete swap to a later model front disc setup along with power brakes is a real nice improvement, PS is also high on the first to do list and is basically bolt in.

 

That's where the Crown Vic front suspension has it all covered.

 

well I guess I should have joined this site before I actually started my project because I have already purchased the mustang II ifs, and 3.50 gears but should be good for what I want. As far as transmissions go I have the 3 on the tree right now but want to convert to 5spd floor shift.. any suggestions?