Flat tail panel and seats

[peterj9#388]

Sorry for the lack of information. Here are the dates for my car #00388.
ordered 11/8/66
serialized 12/06/66
scheduled to build 12/16/66
actually built 12/29/66
released 12/30/66

with an "A" for black decor interior

also 5A trim code

Thanks for all of the help !!!

Peter

[Richstang]

#0388 was completed by SAI (3/8), so it is early enough for it to have the more common NO LIP taillight panel.

5A is the black Comfortweave trim...so early, but not very early. It should be easier to find a replacement set than the very early 6A smooth trim.

[peterj9#388]

Thanks Again.

Do you know anyone with that tail panel Or a set of seats

[Richstang]

Not at the moment, but they show up once in a while.

[peterj9#388]

Is the original panel on Cobranda/Ebay the right one ??

[Richstang]

Branda's website does not show the top edge in the photo for the flat panel version, but the NO LIP version is the typical version that was used.
You could give them a call to confirm what they offer.

Can you post a link to the Ebay ad so we aren't guessing.

[JD]

In the past when you got the Early Flat Panel from Branda that is what you got - no top lip and the 4 studs across the back to hold the panel to the car.

[peterj9#388]

These are the pictures of the panel they have.

[JD]

Yes, the one Branda sells is very close, although it has the 4-studs embedded in the composite plinths that yours seems to be missing.  (or it could be a variation)

When I'm back at my place I'll post a photo or two...

Images of an original added...

[peterj9#388]

If we don't know the exact date they changed over why wouldn't mine have the same version as you ?? The one in the pictures must be impossible to seal.
Peter

[JD]

Shelby was implementing changes all the time, records of the changes were not (well) documented.  Many versions of part changes were short runs.  Some of the changes on this part were to improve sealing and time to attach.

The '67's had more running changes (Ford and Shelby) than any other Shelby, these are not easy cars to restore.

[Richstang]

If we don't know the exact date they changed over why wouldn't mine have the same version as you ?? The one in the pictures must be impossible to seal.
Peter

As JD said and shows in the article, '67s had an on going list of running changes throughout the production year. Probably the most complex of all the Shelby Mustangs. There are very few documents found that note the changes. I've been studying and gathering info on these taillight panels (with help from our experts like JD) and specific patterns are slowly emerging. It looks as though the NO LIP Flat Panels start to disappear in late March - early April. It also appears from late March until late May is when the 'trial and error' test pieces were used on some cars. Then once we get into June we see the last version (raised taillight panels with a lip over the top and a notch for the bumper stop) used throughout the remainder of production. There are always exceptions.

Here's another photo of an early version flat panel with NO lip and 4 studs. The photo you posted looks like a modified piece. Notice the small holes in the panel above the taillight openings. I haven't seen that on any other cars before. I can only guess that was an attempt to stop the fumes from getting in the trunk or control the warping of those early panels.

Does your car have the 4 holes for studs in the rear metal tail panel?

[JD]

Does your car have these holes???

[Bob Gaines]

I have a flat tail panel extra to sell. Pm me Monday if interested . I am at BJ auction in Scottsdale. it will be end of next week before I can take pictures given the panel is at friends house and he is driving home from Scottsdale AZ BJ auction.

[peterj9#388]

Thanks Bob