original center consoles...coupe to convertible

[66moneypit]

I scored a nice original center console for a coupe. My questions is...can I make it work for a convertible. I haven't seen anything on exactly what the difference is but I know there is a difference. I haven't actually seen it yet, my dad picked it up for me...otherwise I'd just stick it in the car and see for myself. Just trying to get a jump on it. it's for 1966 by the way.

 

[BillyD65]

Console

The base of the console has to be cut to conform to the convertible floor. You can get a template from NPD.

 

[dennis112]

Yep, I've cut them down before using the template. You will also need to cut the top trim and add the chrome cap to cover the cut ends. Chrome is available at nearly all Mustang vendors--you should specify a 66' chrome cap as the 65' is different.

 

[66moneypit]

Yep, I've cut them down before using the template. You will also need to cut the top trim and add the chrome cap to cover the cut ends. Chrome is available at nearly all Mustang vendors--you should specify a 66' chrome cap as the 65' is different.

What did you use to cut it down ? I might as well order the chrome cap and the shifter plate from them as well.

 

[dennis112]

What did you use to cut it down ? I might as well order the chrome cap and the shifter plate from them as well.

I used a woodworker's coping saw. Should be able to do it with a hacksaw in a pinch. Just be careful and don't allow the console to flex too much--could cause it to crack. I support mine over an old saw horse.

I used the hacksaw on the shifter plate and the long plate. Install small screws at the top to hold both down--they should be hidden by the chrome cap.

 

[gjz30075]

I think Dennis112 is thinking of an AC car. 66Moneypit, do you have AC? If not, there's no need to cut the front/top of the console, only the bottom to fit the 'vert floor.

 

[66moneypit]

No AC in mine unfortunately. I don't think I will ever put it in at this point.

I got the console and it needs to be cleaned up a bit but I am very please for what he paid for it. $100. Other than the shifter plate it's complete. Even has the wiring harness in it. It has one but it appears to be for a 4 speed.

I was thinking of using a dremel to cut it. What do you think ? Gotta be easier than a hacksaw...

 

[gjz30075]

Definitely a dremel or jigsaw. The cutouts are curved.

 

[DukeGnarley]

how much taller is the convertible tranny tunnel compared to the coupe one? (just wondering if i'll be able to fit a tko without cutting)

 

[dennis112]

I think Dennis112 is thinking of an AC car. 66Moneypit, do you have AC? If not, there's no need to cut the front/top of the console, only the bottom to fit the 'vert floor.

Oops--gjz is correct. I have cut both coupe consoles to fit convertibles AND I have cut regular consoles for AC. Cutting off the storage compartment and the top chrome is not needed if you don't have AC. Sheeesh-My bad.

DON'T CUT THE FRONT STORAGE COMPARTMENT OFF UNLESS YOU HAVE AC. ONLY CUT THE BOTTOM USING A TEMPLATE TO CONVERT A COUPE CONSOLE TO A CONVERTIBLE CONSOLE. NO OTHER CUTTING OR MATERIALS ARE NEEDED FOR A STANDARD INSTALLATION.

 

[dennis112]

how much taller is the convertible tranny tunnel compared to the coupe one? (just wondering if i'll be able to fit a tko without cutting)

Convertible tunnel is probably the same height as the coupe. The reason the convertible console is different is that the seat pan is different--it (the top of the seat pan) is a 1 piece unit in a convertible and it extends from one rocker panel to the other rocker panel. A coupe/fastback uses 2 individual top seat pans that do not extend over the tunnel.

 

[66moneypit]

What do you guys recommend to help clean up the metal on the console ?

 

[69 Rustang]

You will also need to cut the top trim and add the chrome cap to cover the cut ends. Chrome is available at nearly all Mustang vendors--you should specify a 66' chrome cap as the 65' is different.

Before you make this cut suggested by dennis112 and buy more parts--what he is suggesting above is for cars with the factory A/C underdash unit. If you don't have A/C, the only cuts you need to make are along the bottom to go over the floor reinforcement. As a previous poster said you can get a template from NPD. Don't cut a full console into a short one unless you have A/C. Even then you may want to look for a short console versus cutting up a good long one.

 

[69 Rustang]

What do you guys recommend to help clean up the metal on the console ?

Fine "000" steel wool.