New rear valence panel for 64-66 Mustang

Ivy66GT · 03-04-2009

So as not to hijack a previous thread I will start one of my own to ask my question.

A thread from yesterday about fitting a rear valence panel tells us that recent reproductions of these parts can be as much as 1/2" too long OR 1/2" too short. I was going to buy a new one, but if that is the case I may be better off straightening my old mashed one since it is the right size, just a bit lumpy. Measuring mine, they should be 59 7/8" at the top and 55 7/8" at the bottom.

Has anyone bought a new one of these panels recently that was the CORRECT size to fit a car? If so, where? I would need the version with backup light and GT exhaust cutouts.

Calponycarsmike · 03-04-2009

I am going to pull one off the shelf and check it out.

Ok I just pulled one off the shelf here at work, and it is dead on to the factory. It is not a GT but they are the same tool (the factory just runs it through another die for the exhaust cut outs) I would be looking at the cars for major damage repair if they are a 1/2" off.

The valance I pulled is made overseas and they have been making them for years, I have used them on projects and they bolted right up.

Irishking · 03-04-2009

Calponycarsmike
What are the factory specs for the rear valance?

Ivy66GT · 03-05-2009

Yes, it would be good to know what specs were originally intended so we might judge how close the repros are to that spec.

Calponycarsmike · 03-05-2009

I just pulled one repop off the shelf and a NOS we keep for a sample using a tape measure they were the same. I can get one of the guys to help me hold the tape measure to get closer measurments. I have built a lot of cars and never seen one off by a 1/2" I will see if the guys can pull the rear valences down again. I can check some of my ref books, but many will just offer part numbers no dems.

Ivy66GT · 03-07-2009

I measured the width of my two '66 cars at the bottom of where the valance bolts in. This is easier than measuring the valance which can bend a bit. The GT measures 56 1/4" - valance fits lousy. The coupe measure 55 3/4" - valance has a perfect fit.

It appears the valances are the same. Its the cars that differ.

Irishking · 03-09-2009

We still need to know the exact factory dimensions and whether the valances are different for coupes, convertibles, fast backs, etc.