Cowl Braces vs. Export braces

[peppy]

Hey all,
I have a 66' coupe that has braceing going from the cowl to the shock towers. Unlike an "export brace", these are welded in place. If I was to replace the shock towers with new metal, would I have to re-weld this bracing, or would just a bolted on export brace surfice?

Also, could somebody explain why I see some mustangs with the braceing welded in place and others with the bolted on export brace?

Thanks,
Peppy

 

[1965-Mustang]

I believe the earlier cars, 64 1/2-65, had the weld on braces and the later cars, 66-73, had bolted on braces. I think structurally you would be better off with a new stronger steel tubular design, but if you want a more original look the bolted on braces are fine. I have a 65 with a welded on brace and am looking to do an aftermarket brace myself. Some you can find are MPG Heads and or TCP, AKA Chris Chassisworks.

 

[gjz30075]

My early build '66 has stubby extentions that are welded to the shock tower for the export brace to get bolted to. The aftermarket export braces simply go over these stubbies and get bolted to the top of the shock tower. So, if you replace the shock tower sheet metal, you'll have to weld on the stubbies to be correct.