Well, how far do you want to go with it? Tube frame? Stock chassis? Fiberglass?

Early models are lightest.

64-65 are probably the most popular (I seem to see more of them)

Late models are less common - at least around here.

I think the late models have more engine bay room - definitely more than the early models. I can't really say between 64's and late models - I haven't spent much time under the hood of the 64-65.

Late models can have five bolt hubs.

There isn't much out there for "new" parts for the late models - trim pieces, fiberglass, etc. There is SOME but not much.

Warning: Personal opinion follows.

I don't like the shape of the early models and if I'm going to look for 64-65 Ford, it would be a Fairlane. But then again, I'm a little prejudiced towards the late models.

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I was thinking maybe a 65 Sprint. Will these fit a 302 pretty easy? Do you have to change the mounts? I'd like to keep it a stock chassis and body, maybe some fiberglass here and there. I'm sure it'll have a roll cage. Automatic with a trans brake. Probably a new rearend and upgraded suspension/brakes. My goal is to have a consistent 12-13 sec car.

Whats the best source of restoration parts for these cars?

I'm used to Year One but I'm not sure on these cars. Is there a FAQ somewhere on them?

Originally I wanted a 65 Nova, but everybody has them. I first got the idea for the falcon sprint when I saw one in Car Craft. It was black primer and on a trailer after rear ending someone. I think it was on one of thier power tours. Anyway, I really liked the looks of the car and having been raised in a Chevy household I don't think I had ever seen one before.

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: xray328 on 9/25/05 7:28am ]</font>

 

The 302 and the 260/289 that came in the Sprint are the same blocks, therefore the swap is a bolt in. Parts are available from Melvin's, Dearborn Classics, Auto Krafters, Mac's and Dennis Carpenter. If you massage the 302 you should be in the 13's without too much work. There are many Ford 9" rears that will fit under the car and should be used if you are going to do serious racing. The Versailles and some Granadas use the 9". There are several Falcon boards on the Internet. There is the Falconman board at www.members.boardhost.com/falconman/ then there is the Falcon Registry at www.b2g2.com/boards/board.cgi?. Last but not least is TFFN but you need to register for that one. They all have great tips on what you want to do. Go to anyone and scroll through the tech sections and you will have anything you wanted to know but weren't afraid to ask.

Good luck!
Mr. Ed

 

Ill put a vote in for the roundbodies!

 

I have no opinion.

 

Nice cars! I'm especially diggin the 62!

Do you guys think I can get a 62-65 in the 13's for under $12K (car included)?

I was thinking a 302, an air shifted C4, brakes/suspension, rear end, and fuel system.

 

I'm kinda partial to the 62's. Here's an old picture. No new ones yet to show the many changes: Viper red, front wheels tucked up into the fenders, exhaust exits under rear bumper, and all new chrome. The 62 only weights about 2,300 lbs. Won't take much to run in the 13's.

 

I love the early round bodies as well 60-63.They will take a smallblock but have the smallest engine compartments of all falcons.They also have very limited room for larger rear tires as do the 64-65 versions which also will take any small block with a hair more room..The 64-65 versions are a little more common to find with a v-8 which gives you the heavier suspension and 5 lug wheels.The 66 and up models will take big blocks and have a little more open rear fender well than the early models.If your goals are only to run in the 13 second range any of the body styles can do that easily with little modification.It almost comes down to personal preference which body style you like.

 

How about the price though, is $12K reasonable for this project? I know theres a ton of variables but I'm just trying to get a general idea.

 

He's my '62. It gets driven to the track and runs low 12's at LACR with no problem. $12,000 should build a similar car if you do alot of the work yourself.

 

Nice car Jim, thats EXACTLY what I'm looking for. What should a car like that cost in stock form?

 

Out here in Southern California an early 60-63 2door Falcon can cost anywhere from free on up but $1000-$2000 should buy a decent starting point. '63 was the first year for a V8 so starting with a V8 car to begin with might same ya some $$$ but most things need to be changed anyway so it doesn't matter all that much. The V8 cars came with 5 lug wheels,bigger brakes and an 8 inch rear.

 

I was in the 12's with my '69 for WAY under 12k. Probably closer to 5k including the car.

 

Try Joe B. Falcons. They even a few without engines so that would eliminate some work. He has every year and body style so you can pick and choose.

Later!
Mr. Ed

 

I know that this is a Falcon Board, but I have a 64 2 door Comet Sedan, that I was going to "rod". I just purchased a 66 Falcon, so I am getting out of the Comet deal.

If interested, let me know. It has no motor or tranny... But has a title.