Intro and FB questions

[gflat65]

Hi Stangnet. I’m new to the forum. I came over to see horse sense’s fastback conversion thread.

I’ve had a 65 A code coupe since 1991. It got moved out of life priorities around 2001, but has remained garage kept, so it’s not too bad off.

I’ve recently purchased a 65 T code fastback in really bad shape, with a 66 T code coupe that’s in pretty good shape (supposed to the donor). Both are just shells. The fastback came with the rear glass, drivers/passenger windows, fold down seats, etc.

I’ve wanted a fastback for years, and didn’t pay much for this one, so I figured I’d try my hand at replacing the heavily rusted out parts of the fastback, using the 66 T code coupe parts (cut and weld).

I’ve not done much body work, but am eager to learn. I’m a mechanical engineer by trade (don’t hold that against me), so I’ll try to adhere to attention to detail and best practices.

Are there detailed drawings with dimensions on the body and frame? Or is it more a matter of squaring it up, using the mating components?

How much work am I getting into to cut from both shells, and welding back to the fastback?

Should I just order dynacorn parts for the fastback?

Or would it make more sense to cut the fastback top, and weld onto the coupe? And transfer the VIN to the coupe fender apron? Is that unethical? I don’t plan to sell the fastback. But when I pass, it’ll be sold, if my daughter isn’t interested.

Despite it being a titled T code, I plan to run a 289 or 302 in it, 5 lugs, etc., so it won’t be an ‘original configuration’ fastback.

Thoughts? TIA

 

[horse sence]

I would not transfer any numbers . Dynacorn kit is your best bet ,I have used them many times . You actually need a fast back to take measurements from but it can be done with just the panels and a few measurements I may be able to help with . Squaring is usually pretty simple unless it has been hit at one time tweaking the structure.
First step is to strip everything out of the coupe body and place several jack stands under the body ,I use railroad / house mover jacks because they are adjustable to get everything level . Make sure the doors are aligned the very best possible because that will be your alignment point for the quarters. I usually do not remove rockers or door striker post because they are already positioned . I simply fill in the quarter window slot. Once I remove all the old sheet metal I blast and primer before any new metal goes on .