I found a 1959 Ford Thunderbird in a buddy's backyard. He said it has been sitting for 15 years. I had to dig the axles out of the dirt before dragging it home. Seems the only thing missing is some dash parts. I think the motor is a 352. But Im not sure which direction to go with the build. I mean I dig the rat rod cars, or even cars slightly fixed up in an original condition. Would be great to get hooked up with some local people and any tech info on a square bird. Thanks...
You haven't read many post on here yet have ya? I'm still a newbie but I know you're gonna catch hell for the R.R. comment. That's a very bad word. 'Traditional' is a word you need to learn to use.
Once you've spent five minutes on a search of 'rat rod' on this site, you'll come to realize that there's a great deal of antagonism here toward rat rods. Do that search and then decide what you want to post here.
I didn't catch any slack yet for the r.r. comment. But your right, going traditional is the best for this car. I had seen where someone had a convertible with a slanted back windshield and it looked bad ass. So far it's been slow going.
Rat Rod= bad, traditional= good, street rod..............well???. I think you should look at some early sixties customs if you want to change the car, but to tell you the truth, those cars are awsome just the way they came out of the factory. My father in law has one and it is killer.
I'm beginning to think Bad Ass is right up there with Rat Rod. Do a search for Watson and see what you find. Lee
Go custom..You don't need to do much..They damn near came from the factory as a custom..........Cool......
Stance and paint are 2 words to live by during your build.Those cars are indeed cool the way they are but the final paint and stance are what will make it....
Your imagination is endless, your wallet is not List the basics that are needed first and address them. The basics include drivetrain, suspension, chassis. What kind of engine, why, whats the idea behind it etc. Bodywork would come second, how much fabbing to do, vs what I have will work. My first rod was a 39 Chevy Business Coupe (still own it) for the first 3 years it was on the road I used the stock front axle and brakes due to financial neccessity. I did things as I went along, and learned a ton in the process. Get an idea in your head of what you want to do, then work toward it. Ask questions, take chances trying to do new things (aka welding or painting) My first welding was sheetmetal and small stuff, now I am up to whole chassis. Painting the same way. As Hank Ford once said and I paraphrase "If you think you can, If you think you cant, Your RIGHT!
Lots of good advice here. You've stumbled upon what almost amounts to a "factory custom". Please show it the respect it deserves and don't parade it around as a rusty piece of shit. Those cars are just beggin' for panel paint, it would really be fun to do one, you're a lucky man.
Hey fellas, Mr. Bird is a friend of mine and I turned him onto the HAMB. So please go easy on him. I have been trying to make time to go over and check out the ride, but haven't been able too as of yet. I always liked the T-Birds so I think he is off to a good start. Mr.Bird! Sorry bout that time delay, But I have not forgotten! I am off friday.... Keep the posts coming gentleman and lets get him inspired!
I am totaly with fab32, I love the Watson bird and before I saw it, I thought the 58-60 were the ugly years, but now... mmmm... tasty, tasty square bird. Good luck on the build and do what you think is right. But no rat rods. Do any thing else you think is right.
ive had a 60 for ten years now... parts are pricey but luckily i have a donor i got with the buy originally.. i finessed the stance leveling it out... one inch in the rear was all it took and now it sits perfect.. even drags a bit when im into it.. heres a pic of her ass and the engine would sow you the renderings for my paint but dont wanna ruin the surprise hehe
yea, that's pretty cool. too bad they messed up an awesome flat-black paintjob for those scallops. it went great with the rockabilly-red wheels.
Looked through the 6 shots of it. Looks straight and rust-free. If it absolutely doesn't get your juices flowing, you might want to list it for sale to someone who is desparate to find a nice, restoreable example like this. Then take the money and buy what does get your juices flowing.
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