I have published for download an illustrated parts guide complete with illustrations, pro tips, measurements and parts numbers. You can get it here: coupetofastback.gumroad.com/l/fjoxw
Scott I agree 100%. Build what you like and who cares what others think. End result you will have a car your passionate about and love driving. Thanks again for sharing the list with me. I will one day own a fastback mustang 65 to 68 because that is what I want and that is all that matters. Keep the content coming love it. I’m not a religious guy myself but it’s refreshing to share your passion thanks again
So true!!! I really enjoy helping people. Cannot wait to see your car one day, that’ll be awesome. Thanks for the awesome encouragement. We all need that.
I had a 67 fastback 390 automatic. It was fun. But the car was hard to drive and stop. Anything anybody does to improve handling and stopping has my approval. While driving my car I had less pleasure because I spent so much time steering and watching ahead in case I needed to slam down on the weak brakes.
I'm sure he got the coupe because that's what he could afford. If he could have gotten the fastback option, he probably would have. So go ahead and get that sawzall out.
@@Goinbig I would rather build another and keep this as it is, he built it how he wanted and its still a bad ass car. He had the opportunity to buy a couple of fastbacks but they were auto cars. He wanted a manual. It's a 2 owner (3 if you include me) car that has been in the family since 1970. Built 289, 4 spd, 4.11 rear end. Lime gold with parchment interior with some custom touches that we put on the car when he redid it this last time.
Excellent! A professional pastor with next level hobbie skills. I think more hot rodders should make some of these tired coupes into fastbacks. Mustangs are basic cars so keeping one mobile is no problem. Coverting to a fastback is an investment. I bet you could start a successful business just specialising in Mustang coupe to fastback conversions.
Going into this owning a 14 v6 and dreaming of buying a 65-68 v8. I don't mind the conversions let's be real the fastback just looks a lot cooler and if I had the money I'd own or convert one. Buuuut I don't so it will likely be "just" a coupe for me. I'm just glad the option of converting is out there. "Make it my Mustang" 100% applies to this
Absolutely. That's the great part of the artistic opportunity car building and modifying gives us. There are not real right answers just the answer you want to create.
Scott you are spot on! Coupes are cool but, how awesome is a Fastback? There is no comparison. The only negative is those who mickey mouse the conversion and do a bad job. That's it that's the one negative.
I like all your videos Scott and love what you stand for. Always going to have those haters. I wish I had your welding skills, one of these days when I’m out of the military and have a little more room I’m gonna learn. I think some folks worry about these because they think their “investment” sitting in garage will lose value and the people that flip fastbacks also think they may lose value if folks do these. We should all be more like you and want to get them out on the road and drive them. Life happens which I understand. I do take mine out every Saturday/Sunday and drive it. The way I see it all is that it’s your money and you can do whatever you want wether that be a 50K coupe, 15K conversion, or pure originality and 100K…I just want to see them brought back to life and on the road. Keep the videos coming!
Thank you Ryan, I think some people are threatened by the conversion. For those of us doing it on the regular I don't see the down side. The only thing that worries me is if the body parts companies get this in their head they are going to mark up the parts more and make this less cost effective but until that happens it is by far the best way to have a fastback.
We think alike. I owned a 67Fastback, 390 C6, posi. All factory. Looked good but the antique and low quality suspension, brakes and steering made the car a choir to drive around. I wondered about ordering a space frame and upgrading everything but no financing or skills. I drove my Bullit look alike for 23 years and it only cost me $725 back in 1974. It was worth every penny for all the fun. Scary fun. Sold it wrecked for $2500 in about 96.
If you want to turn YOUR car into a fastback, and your paying for it and you can do it safely (in case you sell it to someone else) by all means do what makes you happy! When you sell it the title will say coupe not fastback. As long as you’re not saying it’s a true fastback and trying to get the sky high price I see no problem in it. Personally I think the fastback looks great! I’ve thought about doing the same thing but I went down the 70 chevelle rd
Planning a '67 fastback with a donor Ecoboost mustang. I'm going to take as much off the car as I can: engine, transmission, brakes, suspension etc. It'll make the purists mad that it's no V8, but it's going to be a daily driver that puts a smile on my face. Love the series. God Bless.
That will be a fun build. I'm finding that most "purist" are actually people who don't build cars they just like commenting in forums and posts. Build your car your way and post some pictures so we can see it!
Hey, howdy from Calif. Long story short, I had a '68 fastback Ford while in the Army and a road trip back to CA. in '70. Loved it and really now I'm super excited about the pathway you've opened up. Problem being, I've got no shop and only small mechanic talent. So I've been to the Hot Springs and I'm up for stopping in to see you. I absolutely agree with you because I want to drive it, not 'trailer' it. Tell me what it will take to construct a fastback for me? And, just so you know, I'm born again 10 years now and He granted me a wonderful wife and life. Thanks for your help. Dean Cook
Loved 😊 the video, I agree. I owned 2 in my early years, 25 now 63, fastbacks are bad ass,don't care if it started out a coupe.watching these videos brings back memories, my last car was a GTA so sad I sold it. Keep on building loving the results.
Great points! Been following the conversion series & am real inspired to tackle this. Always wanted to make a shelby gt clone, but that kit is more $$. Heck I'd even drive it with a inline 6 & stock everything just to get it on the road.
Your logic is very sound. I would MUCH more prefer something I built vs something that was built by someone else or even original, it's the hard work that makes the love.
I built a 76 Trans AM Special Edition numbers matching ,, and parts from 50 others cars, that had been stripped from my car. I would never do it again. Better to do like he says,, build it your way, most old cars are poorly built anyway. I did not build it to drive, i built it to see if i could do it. Now maybe a Fastback Mustang. The main thing is a hobby of some type.
and another thing is though im not a purist the purist in me does not want to take a factory fastback and do a restomod on it so i could not only afford to build one of these but i wouldnt feel bad about doing whatever i wanted to do with it and also i wouldnt be afraid to drive it. And if you take it to the car shows and talk to actual car guys they will love it
Hi, love your videos! I am currently doing a coupe to fastback conversion but i am at a pause b.c I am a little worried to weld anything b.c I don't have measurements of the front and rear window frame and other areas. I think one of the biggest things when people watch these videos on conversions, is getting the right measurements and not just slapping everything together base off of looks. one of my fav channels that I watch is (Peterson Restorations) he's really good but does not give out measurement, anyway any chance we will or could get a video of measurements so viewers like me would feel even more comfortable/confident in doing a coupe to fastback conversion?
Thank you for the encouragement! You are so right taking your time is absolutely the best thing you can do. I did a measurements video, see if this is what your looking for. th-cam.com/video/AgXGBuAwedw/w-d-xo.html
@@ScottHarness1 I literally saw the measurements video right after I posted my last comment lol..you are a angel my friend! thank you soo much this really helps. Hope to see that video on the floor pan and more!
If I bought a coupe and parts what would you charge to do the conversion. I am wanting a 1968 fastback because that is the year I was born. My dad was going to buy one that year but because of me he didn’t. I am paralyzed and can’t do the conversion myself.
I would absolutely love to do a conversion for you...I don't do this for a living and really have to do the work in small amounts of time that I have extra. So here is what I am going to do, let me pray about it. Possibly there are others on here that would like to be a part of a great story converting a car for you and maybe we all can pitch in and do it.
Where would you recommend to search to buy a mustang 65-69/fastbacks ? It was just like you said, all I see are rustbuckets, & bent up mustangs. Thanks keep up the good content 👍🏻
I Have a Full Chrome Mollie Chassis Ford Maverick Drag Race car . I Would Like to Change it to a 1968 Mustang Fast back . do You Think a 1968 Musrang Body would Trade out for the Maverick Body
Sorry for the slow response...I bet, not that I know for sure but I bet it would work. Check the wheel base that would be the critical measurement. If so you would just need to build body mounting points but I bet it would work. It would be a very cool build. Share pictures of the project please!
If I do this conversion I’ll put a Ford 300 six cylinder engine in it with a four speed standard. I love six cylinder engines because they just purr like a kitten and last forever.
Hi Scott I love your content and advise on your channel keep up the great work you do, I have a 70 Mustang Grande coupe any info on this one as far as a list or measurements or parts? not sure if you've done one of this before just love the looks of the fastbacks but can't afford one yet so thinking on converting it or just keep it as is but it has lots of rust on roof due to the vinyl roofs.
Hey Jesus; I have not done the 1969 or 1970 conversion, but the process is almost identical to the 1967-68. The parts for this conversion are a bit more expensive. If I’m you I’d look really hard for a Fastback in this year. 1970 model Fastbacks haven’t gone up as much as other years. There are some good ones out there for probably less than the conversion of your coupe. I passed in one about 6 months ago for $18k really a nice car. I will have a guide book for these years soon…
I love a numbers matching car. With that said I am semi retired blue collar and even building a couple conversion is going to strain the budget. I have a 385 lima engine that I'm going to build and I'm looking for a machine shop to convert to a 427 side oiler. Another big expense. After much soul searching I realized what I want is a car that LOOKS like a fastback but runs like a GT40. I don't care if it has to start on a pinto body. I saw one fastback that was 400 thousand. It was beautiful but I'd be terrified to drive it. If I achieve my conversion I will drive it EVERY DAY FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE !
Set your expectations before you start I think that really helps with the project. A daily driver with more modern running gear will serve you incredibly well. Remember many of the vintage engines never lived much past 60k miles and to get to that 60 was a constant work. There is zero doubt that the modern fuel injected, computer controlled, strict tolerance manufactured stuff lasts longer with much less wrench efforts. But sometimes we just want that vintage sound, feeling and such.
Hi Scott! I'm over in Oklahoma East of Tulsa, and I have a 1966 coupe (my first car back in 2014) with some rust, some poorly done patch jobs, and a couple of bent panels. I'm a little intimidated about doing body work since I have limited experience with welding. I'm afraid that if I start to do this myself, and start disassembling it, I'm going to hit a wall, and not be able to get it back together. What do you recommend a novice should do? What do you think it would cost to hire someone like you to replace rusted panels on the car, and do the fastback body panel conversion? Aside from the fastback body panels, I know I need a new floor pan, frame rails, engine bay apron, and firewall.
Hey Sean, Super question. I believe the conversion process is more than novice level but I do think with just a few specific skills and the willingness to stick with it and take your time a very doable project. This is especially true if you’re not trying to make a show car as the end result. I have some skills but I’m not a professional by any means. The rub is hiring the work out. I believe if you do your research you may can find a body guy willing to do the work for less but most of the shops I am familiar with have gone up tremendously to do the conversion. $7500 to about $10k is the price I am seeing and this doesn’t include the parts or shipping. That in my mind puts the conversion in an unreasonable price category. So if I bought a decent coupe for $5k I bought the kit for $5k including shipping, and I pay a shop to convert it another $10k that puts my roller without glass at $20k. Keep in mind that doesn’t include any rust repairs, which can add crazy dollars to your project. My gut says that’s more than you’d want in a conversion. Now bare in mind that if VIN Fastbacks continue to skyrocket in price this will become reasonable, but for now you need to learn some skills, or have a body guy that will help you with the process…
@@ScottHarness1 Thank you! You guessed it right, I'm not trying to build anything showroom quality. I want to fix it up, keep it for the rest of my life, and drive it like any other car (just like you said about yours in the video). 10k just for labor is definitely a lot, so I think I'm going to give it a shot on my own, and definitely take your advice on taking it slowly.
I think you can radically improve drivability but probably won’t be like a new car… anything you add to make it more ridged is a help for sure. But it also adds weight…
Can you please help me do my conversion? I have no prior bodywork, mechanical experience but I am willing to put blood sweat and tears into it just to have my own 67 fastback.
I live in San Diego and I'm interested in having my 65 coupe converted to a fastback. So far I can't find any shops that do those conversions in Southern California. Do you know of any shops in SoCal that do these conversions where I don't have to ship out to Utah to have it converted?
I had a choice when I was 13 to get either a fastback or a coupe. I was pressured to get the fastback from my dad. I chose the coupe because I liked the look more. I still have that car and wanted to see the reasons to convert it here. 1. You can drive it? 2. Its worth more $. I honestly believe fastbacks are only worth more because they are more rare. 3. What was #3? =). I think Fastbacks are cool. I think all the cars from this era were cool but the 3 reasons I will stay with a coupe is. 1. I like that look more and do not care what others like. 2. I do not care how much I can sell it for. I am not selling it and I will drive it because I can fix anything on it myself. 3. I do not want to add complexity or weight to my car for no practical reason.
The "you can drive it" was directed toward those who build fastbacks (which are much more expensive than a coupe) and don't drive them. Fastbacks are worth more because they are more sought after and they were the option laden performance option cars. The factory race options came almost exclusively on fastbacks, Shelby's were all fastbacks as well. It's a more valuable car and always will be. The coupe was the common man's car that couldn't afford the higher performance and expensive fastback option, that's not a dig against fastback just truth. The Maverick was another option that was offered for those who couldn't afford a mustang. I think mavericks are cool as well just not as sought after as a mustang. Keeping and driving your coupe is a great option. This post isn't about convincing coupe owners but giving the option to those who want something more than a coupe and can't see spending the money on a fastback. Coupes are plentiful and cheaply priced but for me I wanted a fastback, love the style, I couldn't see spending the money on an original so I converted by coupe.
@@ScottHarness1 Anything more sought after is more expensive. If they made more fastbacks than coupes I am pretty sure the coupe would be worth more. I think it is cool now days you can make your car like you want easier than I was a kid. I think everyone should do that. These cars are fairly easy to manipulate into exactly what you want and I love that. Just for me none of these reasons work and that is just for me. For someone who wants to flip the car and has the tools and the know how or resources. I just do not see any reason to do this unless you just like the fastback more and lots do or you wanna try to make some money. I would argue that this is still probably not going to be worth it after its all said and done.
@@TheNightstang I think that's fair enough. I always wanted a fastback, couldn't afford one back in the day and still can't. This made it possible. I could afford a coupe, in fact I could buy four or five coupes for the same price as a rusty fastback. So I went this way and found that there was so much misinformation about the process thought I might add some clarity to the conversation. I don't sell cars, flip cars, or do this for a living. Just a very happy fastback converter that wants to share.
Hi Scott you said your lists were free but I think I paid about £10 in the uk to download your parts list for Dyna corn , don’t get me wrong I still think it was worth it and great full but confused as u said it was free 👌👍
They were free for about a year maybe a little more, but I couldn’t keep up sending them out individually and the quality wasn’t great. I republished the lists in a book format with illustrations and Gumroad manages the downloads so everyone gets one immediately. They are now $10. These videos are a couple years old now.
Here’s my question. Two identical years one coupe one fast back, both need quarters roof skin and trunk? You decide to convert the coupe to fastback. When you’re done, which one is worth more? OG fastback is not original fastback because all parts are replaced. Title??
The original fastback will be worth more depending on the parts used. The value in the conversion is the starting point, the fastback is normally much more expensive from the start than the coupe. For instance a good coupe can be had for $3-4k, a rusted fastback is $19-30k. The conversion will cost the same as replacing the sheetmetal on the fastback, in this example let's say $5k. In the end you will have $8-9k in the converted coupe and it will be worth $25k, you will have $24-35k in the fastback. It will be worth about that. So the coupe will net you a profit if sold of about $15k, the fastback will be sold for about what you have in it.
I would imagine that will apply to lots of cars. The coupes being converted are a fraction of those rotting in fields, and elsewhere because of the high cost of restoration.
I am currently working on a sourcing guide to the fastback interior, I have found that there are lots of options and multiple dealers that do better with one part and not so great with another. I hope to have this list and info soon.
for me converting my 69 from a coupe to a fastback is simply not worth it. Its expensive and hard work. I like the fastback better, but not by that much. In fact, I get comments all the time from people who never seen a 69 coupe before about how cool it is. Its pretty crazy considering they made more coupes than fastback.
To each his own, I think coupes are great. They are plentiful and less expensive. If you want a fastback that has perfect new metal converting a coupe is a great way.
I'm not trying to make a numbers matching 6 cyl coupe. I'm making a rip ass fastback. And for the guys who are complaining that these conversions will decrease the value of a real fastback... You're wrong. It will increase the value of the real thing. Now sit down and be quiet 😂😂😂
Actually back in the day when a fastback was hit in the back it wasn’t unheard of to use a coupe back half to repair it. Parts weren’t as easy to find. So when you look at a coupe check the vin because it could be a fastback hidden in a coupe clothing.
@@ScottHarness1 My goal (at age 48 finally) is to get a 66-67 coupe and convert it to a fastback for super stock drag racing purposes. The build is going to be a plain jane white factory style looking drag car. All business. Minor details, total authenticity and show quality isn't very important to me. Is a 66 easier/harder than a 67 or are they basically the same amount of work and cost? Suppose the only difference is the trunk area maybe.
Im not a purist by any means and if I get one will be adding modern technology to it but cannot get on board with converting a coupe to fastback. I get its your car and get your points but there absolutely is one scenario where a coupe is worth more than a fastback,if I were looking at it I would never consider buying it unless the converted car was dirt cheap. I would not pay a premium or good money for a converted coupe fastback.
Converted coupes are sold every day for significantly more than unconverted. You don't mind non original wheels, motor, trans, interior, paint, and much more but don't modify the body. Seems silly.
@@ScottHarness1 I’m sure that they are but we’re not talking wheels Scott, everything you are describing is modifying a vehicle but at the end of the day if it was a coupe its still a coupe, convertible or fastback, etc. This is changing the vehicle type, night and day scenario seems silly to me that you don’t see that. What will the title say on a coupe converted fastback, fastback or coupe?
@@msk3905I think if you have a conviction of not modifying the body of your car don’t. There are plenty of people that believe numbers matching factory original restorations are the way. The way I see it is if you want fastback you can spend (just did a quick search of market place) $25k (rust bucket) to $100k decent car or you can convert a coupe for a fraction and have a drivable car of your dreams. The title will always say “Coupe”. No one has ever asked for my title though lol. When I drive a converted fastback everyone stops, looks and asks questions. They love it so do I. But to each his own.
@@ScottHarness1 My comment is to the poster saying that there is never a scenario where a coupe is worth more than a fastback, I’m giving him one scenario where it is. It’s your car you can do what you want with it, all I’m saying is I would never pay a premium for a fake fastback, it’s a coupe I’d pay coupe prices for one converted or not. I love factory five cobras, would happily own and drive one but they are heavily discounted from real cobra’s.
@@msk3905 Converted coupes go for double if not triple over coupes. “I wouldn’t pay” isn’t a market analysis but a preference. I sold three coupes last summer for next to nothing and could hardly get that. I could have presold a conversion for $19k this month. I have $400 in the car and $2k in parts. The car before the conversion is worth $400 after it's worth $20k. I sold a 1965 coupe roller last fall, all new metal, new floor pans, new suspension, perfect car all I could get was $5500 and it took 6 months to sell. A friend I helped do a conversion on a 1965, he sold it unfinished (body screwed on) unfinished roller for $13k in a single day. People are paying $10k to do the conversion and they won't pay $10k for a coupe roller.
Dam bro what kind of gender preferred coffee do you drink? I'm going to say that you're a fire-breathing man that's going to be driving a Fastback Mustang that has fangs;-) haha I have 2 coupes an me an my son WILL make into fastbacks too drive an race each other daily
Actually a coupe converted to a fastback even without added sub frames will have a more rigid body than either of the two as created by Ford . Now in my seventies I regret selling my 1967s in 1973 when I went in the US Army . Yes plural I had both S codes 390 at the same time from 70 to 73. The fastback had a 4 speed top loader the coupe had a C6 auto . The fast back body twister more under extreme load...versus the coupe. the folding seat in the fastback had their plus but only came in handy if I was ferrying 2x4x8 studs home ..and for that I always used my pick up truck .
Ford was brilliant in the unibody design not because it made a better car but they were the first to build a car completely from sheet metal. Ford innovated in manufacturing for many years this is one of them. On our end (the user) the unibody isn't the most rigid for high horsepower or impact. So we are left doing some work. The body design makes it worth it in value to put the effort in though.
@@ScottHarness1 Ford.. was not first to build uni-body cars in the USA, Nash 600 1941 to 1949 was . The Nash 600 w. They were arguably the first at building larger production numbers uni-body cars and models for the USA market versus the other . Properly constructed a uni-body is stronger than body on frame ...the Ford 1960 TO 1967 Thunderbirds are an example of that .That body platform could take the high torque of big blocks all day long and not twist like the more anemically built Mustangs. I owned two 64s one with 390 the other with an optional truck motor a 430 with greater torque specs which was sold under a special corporate order system if the prospective buyer intended to tow a large trailer even though that engine ( 430 ) was not longer offered through dealer options since 1960 or 62 as my memory recalls. Why tow a trailer with a Tbird remains a mystery to me to this day ...fortunately bing 3 owner mine came without a trailer hitch .. and no signs of one ever having been installed 🖖
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I have published for download an illustrated parts guide complete with illustrations, pro tips, measurements and parts numbers. You can get it here: coupetofastback.gumroad.com/l/fjoxw
@@ScottHarness1 thank you
Scott I agree 100%. Build what you like and who cares what others think. End result you will have a car your passionate about and love driving. Thanks again for sharing the list with me. I will one day own a fastback mustang 65 to 68 because that is what I want and that is all that matters. Keep the content coming love it. I’m not a religious guy myself but it’s refreshing to share your passion thanks again
So true!!! I really enjoy helping people. Cannot wait to see your car one day, that’ll be awesome. Thanks for the awesome encouragement. We all need that.
I had a 67 fastback 390 automatic. It was fun. But the car was hard to drive and stop. Anything anybody does to improve handling and stopping has my approval. While driving my car I had less pleasure because I spent so much time steering and watching ahead in case I needed to slam down on the weak brakes.
Only reason I wouldn't do it to my coupe is because it's my dad's first car... that Doesn't mean I don't want to convert another! Great videos, Scott!
I love cars with a story, I would not change your dad's car! That's an awesome thing to have. Thanks for the comment.
I'm sure he got the coupe because that's what he could afford. If he could have gotten the fastback option, he probably would have. So go ahead and get that sawzall out.
@@Goinbig I would rather build another and keep this as it is, he built it how he wanted and its still a bad ass car. He had the opportunity to buy a couple of fastbacks but they were auto cars. He wanted a manual. It's a 2 owner (3 if you include me) car that has been in the family since 1970. Built 289, 4 spd, 4.11 rear end. Lime gold with parchment interior with some custom touches that we put on the car when he redid it this last time.
Excellent! A professional pastor with next level hobbie skills. I think more hot rodders should make some of these tired coupes into fastbacks. Mustangs are basic cars so keeping one mobile is no problem. Coverting to a fastback is an investment. I bet you could start a successful business just specialising in Mustang coupe to fastback conversions.
Thank you!!! So true.
Going into this owning a 14 v6 and dreaming of buying a 65-68 v8. I don't mind the conversions let's be real the fastback just looks a lot cooler and if I had the money I'd own or convert one. Buuuut I don't so it will likely be "just" a coupe for me. I'm just glad the option of converting is out there. "Make it my Mustang" 100% applies to this
Absolutely. That's the great part of the artistic opportunity car building and modifying gives us. There are not real right answers just the answer you want to create.
Scott you are spot on! Coupes are cool but, how awesome is a Fastback? There is no comparison. The only negative is those who mickey mouse the conversion and do a bad job. That's it that's the one negative.
Truth
I have a real 67 Fastback "Driver"....I love it....and I love that you are all about "The Driver". It's what they were built for! Amen!
Heck yeah. Getting to run around in one of these is such a blast!!!
I like all your videos Scott and love what you stand for. Always going to have those haters. I wish I had your welding skills, one of these days when I’m out of the military and have a little more room I’m gonna learn. I think some folks worry about these because they think their “investment” sitting in garage will lose value and the people that flip fastbacks also think they may lose value if folks do these. We should all be more like you and want to get them out on the road and drive them. Life happens which I understand. I do take mine out every Saturday/Sunday and drive it. The way I see it all is that it’s your money and you can do whatever you want wether that be a 50K coupe, 15K conversion, or pure originality and 100K…I just want to see them brought back to life and on the road. Keep the videos coming!
Thank you Ryan, I think some people are threatened by the conversion. For those of us doing it on the regular I don't see the down side. The only thing that worries me is if the body parts companies get this in their head they are going to mark up the parts more and make this less cost effective but until that happens it is by far the best way to have a fastback.
Well said! I'm seriously considering a project just like this as soon as I get a shop to begin from.
It is a very doable project. It seems really intimidating but in the end there is a lot of info out there to help guide you.
I love your videos! I love the "just do it" mindset. ...and thank you for the blessings!
Thank you.
We think alike. I owned a 67Fastback, 390 C6, posi. All factory. Looked good but the antique and low quality suspension, brakes and steering made the car a choir to drive around. I wondered about ordering a space frame and upgrading everything but no financing or skills. I drove my Bullit look alike for 23 years and it only cost me $725 back in 1974. It was worth every penny for all the fun. Scary fun. Sold it wrecked for $2500 in about 96.
Sounds like a fun car! You just don’t see them on the road anymore at all.
I’m glad someone shine a light to this because I was thinking I would never ever be able to own a fastback
It’s doable!
If you want to turn YOUR car into a fastback, and your paying for it and you can do it safely (in case you sell it to someone else) by all means do what makes you happy! When you sell it the title will say coupe not fastback. As long as you’re not saying it’s a true fastback and trying to get the sky high price I see no problem in it. Personally I think the fastback looks great! I’ve thought about doing the same thing but I went down the 70 chevelle rd
The gender thing and I dont care you don't care who cares. 🤣 I'm dying. This is great. Fastback all the way.
LOL. Just got to do your own thing! For every action there is an equal and opposite criticism.
Planning a '67 fastback with a donor Ecoboost mustang. I'm going to take as much off the car as I can: engine, transmission, brakes, suspension etc. It'll make the purists mad that it's no V8, but it's going to be a daily driver that puts a smile on my face. Love the series. God Bless.
That will be a fun build. I'm finding that most "purist" are actually people who don't build cars they just like commenting in forums and posts. Build your car your way and post some pictures so we can see it!
Hey, howdy from Calif. Long story short, I had a '68 fastback Ford while in the Army and a road trip back to CA. in '70. Loved it and really now I'm super excited about the pathway you've opened up. Problem being, I've got no shop and only small mechanic talent. So I've been to the Hot Springs and I'm up for stopping in to see you. I absolutely agree with you because I want to drive it, not 'trailer'
it. Tell me what it will take to construct a fastback for me? And, just so you know, I'm born again 10 years now and He granted me a wonderful wife and life.
Thanks for your help.
Dean Cook
I’m so sorry, I hardly have time to build one or two. There are some shops out there but in all honestly if you pay someone it’s almost not worth it…
Loved 😊 the video, I agree. I owned 2 in my early years, 25 now 63, fastbacks are bad ass,don't care if it started out a coupe.watching these videos brings back memories, my last car was a GTA so sad I sold it. Keep on building loving the results.
Love your Video's I'm in the process of a 67 conversion. Thanks for taking time to share. God bless!
That's awesome, love to see your progress.
Love literally everything about this video. From the first words to the last. Thanks for sharing. Truly.
Thank you my friend.
Great points! Been following the conversion series & am real inspired to tackle this. Always wanted to make a shelby gt clone, but that kit is more $$. Heck I'd even drive it with a inline 6 & stock everything just to get it on the road.
That’s the best attitude, just get it going.
Your logic is very sound. I would MUCH more prefer something I built vs something that was built by someone else or even original, it's the hard work that makes the love.
Absolutely!
We here you Scott , I think you are right make the car drives and put it on the street and maybe upgrade later
Yes! When the car is running you are much more motivated to do more.
What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a coupe to convert? Torque boxes, frame rails, etc. Thanks
I have a check list that and a video that goes alone with it just on that topic. Here is the check list: coupetofastback.gumroad.com/l/vdhpb
I have always said "it's your car, do whatever the heck you want" it does not matter what people say!!!
I built a 76 Trans AM Special Edition numbers matching ,, and parts from 50 others cars, that had been stripped from my car. I would never do it again. Better to do like he says,, build it your way, most old cars are poorly built anyway. I did not build it to drive, i built it to see if i could do it. Now maybe a Fastback Mustang. The main thing is a hobby of some type.
Absolutely true.
Im intrigued, thinking after my current project, I'd try one
Do it!
Love your energy and insight brother.
Thank you!!! It's fun.
MY first car was a 68 fastback. Awesome..
Such an awesome car. How long did you have it for?
@@ScottHarness1 I only had it about 6 months from my 16th birthday. It was cool. Thank you for asking?
and another thing is though im not a purist the purist in me does not want to take a factory fastback and do a restomod on it so i could not only afford to build one of these but i wouldnt feel bad about doing whatever i wanted to do with it and also i wouldnt be afraid to drive it. And if you take it to the car shows and talk to actual car guys they will love it
Like the way you think.Thanks for info.Im watching all your videos. Having problem following the order of videos
Yeah I started making the videos after I had already started this conversion.
Great points im doing mine
That's awesome!
Perfect logic video. Can’t get my son to think this way.👏👏👏👏
Keep trying!!!! It’s the best way to get a good Fastback.
Hi, love your videos! I am currently doing a coupe to fastback conversion but i am at a pause b.c I am a little worried to weld anything b.c I don't have measurements of the front and rear window frame and other areas. I think one of the biggest things when people watch these videos on conversions, is getting the right measurements and not just slapping everything together base off of looks. one of my fav channels that I watch is
(Peterson Restorations) he's really good but does not give out measurement, anyway any chance we will or could get a video of measurements so viewers like me would feel even more comfortable/confident in doing a coupe to fastback conversion?
Thank you for the encouragement! You are so right taking your time is absolutely the best thing you can do. I did a measurements video, see if this is what your looking for. th-cam.com/video/AgXGBuAwedw/w-d-xo.html
@@ScottHarness1 I literally saw the measurements video right after I posted my last comment lol..you are a angel my friend! thank you soo much this really helps. Hope to see that video on the floor pan and more!
I learned a lot from watching Peterson's Restorations youtube channel. But I still would worry about doing the final welding part.
Keep up the good work Scott, looking great 👍
Thank you Rob! I really appreciate it.
If I bought a coupe and parts what would you charge to do the conversion. I am wanting a 1968 fastback because that is the year I was born. My dad was going to buy one that year but because of me he didn’t. I am paralyzed and can’t do the conversion myself.
I would absolutely love to do a conversion for you...I don't do this for a living and really have to do the work in small amounts of time that I have extra. So here is what I am going to do, let me pray about it. Possibly there are others on here that would like to be a part of a great story converting a car for you and maybe we all can pitch in and do it.
@@ScottHarness1 I wouldn’t need a fast job but want it done correctly. Thanks for praying on it. Thanks.
Where would you recommend to search to buy a mustang 65-69/fastbacks ? It was just like you said, all I see are rustbuckets, & bent up mustangs. Thanks keep up the good content 👍🏻
Search the web but few good deals are to be had. I have found unlisted cars that are just setting are better deals.
I Have a Full Chrome Mollie Chassis Ford Maverick Drag Race car . I Would Like to Change it to a 1968 Mustang Fast back . do You Think a 1968 Musrang Body would Trade out for the Maverick Body
Sorry for the slow response...I bet, not that I know for sure but I bet it would work. Check the wheel base that would be the critical measurement. If so you would just need to build body mounting points but I bet it would work. It would be a very cool build. Share pictures of the project please!
If I do this conversion I’ll put a Ford 300 six cylinder engine in it with a four speed standard.
I love six cylinder engines because they just purr like a kitten and last forever.
The 300 is such a great motor. Run forever.
I like it surinam here peace an love fore you.
Thank you, I think.!
VERY good guidance.
New subscriber…. Enjoy your channel so far.
Thank you!!!
Hi Scott I love your content and advise on your channel keep up the great work you do, I have a 70 Mustang Grande coupe any info on this one as far as a list or measurements or parts? not sure if you've done one of this before just love the looks of the fastbacks but can't afford one yet so thinking on converting it or just keep it as is but it has lots of rust on roof due to the vinyl roofs.
Hey Jesus;
I have not done the 1969 or 1970 conversion, but the process is almost identical to the 1967-68. The parts for this conversion are a bit more expensive. If I’m you I’d look really hard for a Fastback in this year. 1970 model Fastbacks haven’t gone up as much as other years. There are some good ones out there for probably less than the conversion of your coupe. I passed in one about 6 months ago for $18k really a nice car. I will have a guide book for these years soon…
I love a numbers matching car. With that said I am semi retired blue collar and even building a couple conversion is going to strain the budget. I have a 385 lima engine that I'm going to build and I'm looking for a machine shop to convert to a 427 side oiler. Another big expense. After much soul searching I realized what I want is a car that LOOKS like a fastback but runs like a GT40. I don't care if it has to start on a pinto body. I saw one fastback that was 400 thousand. It was beautiful but I'd be terrified to drive it. If I achieve my conversion I will drive it EVERY DAY FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE !
Set your expectations before you start I think that really helps with the project. A daily driver with more modern running gear will serve you incredibly well. Remember many of the vintage engines never lived much past 60k miles and to get to that 60 was a constant work. There is zero doubt that the modern fuel injected, computer controlled, strict tolerance manufactured stuff lasts longer with much less wrench efforts. But sometimes we just want that vintage sound, feeling and such.
great video! im buying a fastback but this is also a great idea!
Awesome!
Amen Brother...........................................
Hi Scott! I'm over in Oklahoma East of Tulsa, and I have a 1966 coupe (my first car back in 2014) with some rust, some poorly done patch jobs, and a couple of bent panels. I'm a little intimidated about doing body work since I have limited experience with welding. I'm afraid that if I start to do this myself, and start disassembling it, I'm going to hit a wall, and not be able to get it back together. What do you recommend a novice should do? What do you think it would cost to hire someone like you to replace rusted panels on the car, and do the fastback body panel conversion? Aside from the fastback body panels, I know I need a new floor pan, frame rails, engine bay apron, and firewall.
Hey Sean, Super question. I believe the conversion process is more than novice level but I do think with just a few specific skills and the willingness to stick with it and take your time a very doable project. This is especially true if you’re not trying to make a show car as the end result. I have some skills but I’m not a professional by any means. The rub is hiring the work out. I believe if you do your research you may can find a body guy willing to do the work for less but most of the shops I am familiar with have gone up tremendously to do the conversion. $7500 to about $10k is the price I am seeing and this doesn’t include the parts or shipping. That in my mind puts the conversion in an unreasonable price category. So if I bought a decent coupe for $5k I bought the kit for $5k including shipping, and I pay a shop to convert it another $10k that puts my roller without glass at $20k. Keep in mind that doesn’t include any rust repairs, which can add crazy dollars to your project. My gut says that’s more than you’d want in a conversion. Now bare in mind that if VIN Fastbacks continue to skyrocket in price this will become reasonable, but for now you need to learn some skills, or have a body guy that will help you with the process…
@@ScottHarness1 Thank you! You guessed it right, I'm not trying to build anything showroom quality. I want to fix it up, keep it for the rest of my life, and drive it like any other car (just like you said about yours in the video). 10k just for labor is definitely a lot, so I think I'm going to give it a shot on my own, and definitely take your advice on taking it slowly.
How do these cars handle ? Wonder if a roll cage or sway bars are a must for structural sway “
I think you can radically improve drivability but probably won’t be like a new car… anything you add to make it more ridged is a help for sure. But it also adds weight…
Can you please help me do my conversion? I have no prior bodywork, mechanical experience but I am willing to put blood sweat and tears into it just to have my own 67 fastback.
I sure can help with information! I am struggling to find time to work on my own...
Great and informative and so true 👍
Thank you my friend!
I live in San Diego and I'm interested in having my 65 coupe converted to a fastback. So far I can't find any shops that do those conversions in Southern California. Do you know of any shops in SoCal that do these conversions where I don't have to ship out to Utah to have it converted?
Mark I’m struggling to identify shops that do the conversions. Trying to figure out how to locate shops that are reputable.
@@ScottHarness1 What do you know about the guys at Lost Socket Garage in Utah. Have you heard any feedback about their work from your followers?
@@MarkJohnson-ob4yd We’ve visited several times. Their work looks incredible. Seem like solid guys.
Mustang Country in Paramount, CA has a body shop next to them I’m almost certain they do these conversions just look em up and give them a call
You are just plain alsume ,praise god this man drives a mustang
Thank you my friend.
Go for it ... no mattter what... cheers from peru
Still have to say I love your country! One of the most beautiful places on earth.
I had a choice when I was 13 to get either a fastback or a coupe. I was pressured to get the fastback from my dad. I chose the coupe because I liked the look more. I still have that car and wanted to see the reasons to convert it here. 1. You can drive it? 2. Its worth more $. I honestly believe fastbacks are only worth more because they are more rare. 3. What was #3? =). I think Fastbacks are cool. I think all the cars from this era were cool but the 3 reasons I will stay with a coupe is. 1. I like that look more and do not care what others like. 2. I do not care how much I can sell it for. I am not selling it and I will drive it because I can fix anything on it myself. 3. I do not want to add complexity or weight to my car for no practical reason.
The "you can drive it" was directed toward those who build fastbacks (which are much more expensive than a coupe) and don't drive them. Fastbacks are worth more because they are more sought after and they were the option laden performance option cars. The factory race options came almost exclusively on fastbacks, Shelby's were all fastbacks as well. It's a more valuable car and always will be. The coupe was the common man's car that couldn't afford the higher performance and expensive fastback option, that's not a dig against fastback just truth. The Maverick was another option that was offered for those who couldn't afford a mustang. I think mavericks are cool as well just not as sought after as a mustang. Keeping and driving your coupe is a great option. This post isn't about convincing coupe owners but giving the option to those who want something more than a coupe and can't see spending the money on a fastback. Coupes are plentiful and cheaply priced but for me I wanted a fastback, love the style, I couldn't see spending the money on an original so I converted by coupe.
@@ScottHarness1 Anything more sought after is more expensive. If they made more fastbacks than coupes I am pretty sure the coupe would be worth more. I think it is cool now days you can make your car like you want easier than I was a kid. I think everyone should do that. These cars are fairly easy to manipulate into exactly what you want and I love that. Just for me none of these reasons work and that is just for me. For someone who wants to flip the car and has the tools and the know how or resources. I just do not see any reason to do this unless you just like the fastback more and lots do or you wanna try to make some money. I would argue that this is still probably not going to be worth it after its all said and done.
@@TheNightstang I think that's fair enough. I always wanted a fastback, couldn't afford one back in the day and still can't. This made it possible. I could afford a coupe, in fact I could buy four or five coupes for the same price as a rusty fastback. So I went this way and found that there was so much misinformation about the process thought I might add some clarity to the conversation. I don't sell cars, flip cars, or do this for a living. Just a very happy fastback converter that wants to share.
@@ScottHarness1 Yeah that is what is great about these cars. I think for you it makes perfect sense for what you want.
Building a full chassis, fastback conversion, Shelby clone with a stroked 351W.
Hi Scott you said your lists were free but I think I paid about £10 in the uk to download your parts list for Dyna corn , don’t get me wrong I still think it was worth it and great full but confused as u said it was free 👌👍
They were free for about a year maybe a little more, but I couldn’t keep up sending them out individually and the quality wasn’t great. I republished the lists in a book format with illustrations and Gumroad manages the downloads so everyone gets one immediately. They are now $10. These videos are a couple years old now.
@@ScottHarness1 thank you Scott much obliged for that explanation God bless you brother .❤️🌹🇬🇧
What if one's starting point is a '65 K-code GT with rotted-out roof and softball-sized hole above the steering wheel?
The great start honestly.
Love this video
Thank you!
Absolutely build drive it and when someone says it’s a conversion tell them you didn’t ask for the conversation
So true.
Here’s my question. Two identical years one coupe one fast back, both need quarters roof skin and trunk? You decide to convert the coupe to fastback. When you’re done, which one is worth more? OG fastback is not original fastback because all parts are replaced. Title??
The original fastback will be worth more depending on the parts used. The value in the conversion is the starting point, the fastback is normally much more expensive from the start than the coupe. For instance a good coupe can be had for $3-4k, a rusted fastback is $19-30k. The conversion will cost the same as replacing the sheetmetal on the fastback, in this example let's say $5k. In the end you will have $8-9k in the converted coupe and it will be worth $25k, you will have $24-35k in the fastback. It will be worth about that. So the coupe will net you a profit if sold of about $15k, the fastback will be sold for about what you have in it.
How much do you want for your coup/fastback as a roller fastback?
I don’t really build to sell but I do have a 1965 coupe that will be a fastback at some point this year. $20k
Preach on brother!
Thank you my friend!
What would you charge to convert one ??
One day, there will be less coupes than fastbacks and convertibles. Around that time everyone will want one.
I would imagine that will apply to lots of cars. The coupes being converted are a fraction of those rotting in fields, and elsewhere because of the high cost of restoration.
Where do i get the interior pieces?
I am currently working on a sourcing guide to the fastback interior, I have found that there are lots of options and multiple dealers that do better with one part and not so great with another. I hope to have this list and info soon.
@@ScottHarness1 thank you for all your effort and work.
for me converting my 69 from a coupe to a fastback is simply not worth it. Its expensive and hard work. I like the fastback better, but not by that much. In fact, I get comments all the time from people who never seen a 69 coupe before about how cool it is. Its pretty crazy considering they made more coupes than fastback.
To each his own, I think coupes are great. They are plentiful and less expensive. If you want a fastback that has perfect new metal converting a coupe is a great way.
❤❤❤❤
I'm not trying to make a numbers matching 6 cyl coupe. I'm making a rip ass fastback.
And for the guys who are complaining that these conversions will decrease the value of a real fastback... You're wrong. It will increase the value of the real thing. Now sit down and be quiet 😂😂😂
I get why og fastback owners are mad about it because fastbacks are obviously way cooler
Has anyone converted a fastback to a coupe?
Actually back in the day when a fastback was hit in the back it wasn’t unheard of to use a coupe back half to repair it. Parts weren’t as easy to find. So when you look at a coupe check the vin because it could be a fastback hidden in a coupe clothing.
@@ScottHarness1 My goal (at age 48 finally) is to get a 66-67 coupe and convert it to a fastback for super stock drag racing purposes. The build is going to be a plain jane white factory style looking drag car. All business. Minor details, total authenticity and show quality isn't very important to me. Is a 66 easier/harder than a 67 or are they basically the same amount of work and cost? Suppose the only difference is the trunk area maybe.
Im not a purist by any means and if I get one will be adding modern technology to it but cannot get on board with converting a coupe to fastback. I get its your car and get your points but there absolutely is one scenario where a coupe is worth more than a fastback,if I were looking at it I would never consider buying it unless the converted car was dirt cheap. I would not pay a premium or good money for a converted coupe fastback.
Converted coupes are sold every day for significantly more than unconverted. You don't mind non original wheels, motor, trans, interior, paint, and much more but don't modify the body. Seems silly.
@@ScottHarness1 I’m sure that they are but we’re not talking wheels Scott, everything you are describing is modifying a vehicle but at the end of the day if it was a coupe its still a coupe, convertible or fastback, etc. This is changing the vehicle type, night and day scenario seems silly to me that you don’t see that. What will the title say on a coupe converted fastback, fastback or coupe?
@@msk3905I think if you have a conviction of not modifying the body of your car don’t. There are plenty of people that believe numbers matching factory original restorations are the way. The way I see it is if you want fastback you can spend (just did a quick search of market place) $25k (rust bucket) to $100k decent car or you can convert a coupe for a fraction and have a drivable car of your dreams. The title will always say “Coupe”. No one has ever asked for my title though lol. When I drive a converted fastback everyone stops, looks and asks questions. They love it so do I. But to each his own.
@@ScottHarness1 My comment is to the poster saying that there is never a scenario where a coupe is worth more than a fastback, I’m giving him one scenario where it is. It’s your car you can do what you want with it, all I’m saying is I would never pay a premium for a fake fastback, it’s a coupe I’d pay coupe prices for one converted or not. I love factory five cobras, would happily own and drive one but they are heavily discounted from real cobra’s.
@@msk3905 Converted coupes go for double if not triple over coupes. “I wouldn’t pay” isn’t a market analysis but a preference. I sold three coupes last summer for next to nothing and could hardly get that. I could have presold a conversion for $19k this month. I have $400 in the car and $2k in parts. The car before the conversion is worth $400 after it's worth $20k. I sold a 1965 coupe roller last fall, all new metal, new floor pans, new suspension, perfect car all I could get was $5500 and it took 6 months to sell. A friend I helped do a conversion on a 1965, he sold it unfinished (body screwed on) unfinished roller for $13k in a single day. People are paying $10k to do the conversion and they won't pay $10k for a coupe roller.
So… hypothetically speaking. If someone took Little Red and converted it to a fastback its value would increase?
There are exceptions but every coupe that I have converted or I have knowledge of being converted increased in value.
@@ScottHarness1 I was just heckling you. I believe you know what you’re talking about
lol! I like it!
Nope, The fastback Mustang is Cool 😎
Thank you!!!
🐺....🖤🌹
Can you call me daily and motivate me to work on mine? Lol
Lol! Isn't that the truth. We all need a little kick to get going!
three reasons chan-ching. $,$,$
Pure facts!
Dam bro what kind of gender preferred coffee do you drink? I'm going to say that you're a fire-breathing man that's going to be driving a Fastback Mustang that has fangs;-) haha I have 2 coupes an me an my son WILL make into fastbacks too drive an race each other daily
LOL! That's great! Nothing like a father son project!
@@ScottHarness1 where y'all from in united kingdom
@@allendaigle6351 We're in Arkansas, US.
Hurray y'all from same planet where everyone goin nuts
#7 to increase the likelihood of being car jacked by some gangsta punk like John Wick?
Lol. Truth.
If you want to go racing , coupe lighter than a fastback .
Barely, about 40lbs or so. Doubt that would make much difference.
@@ScottHarness1 ok, if you say so, but real diff, is a coup will only cost your a quarter what a fastback will.
You sir just misgendered every “they” that identifies as a car. Better start looking over your shoulder now for the cancel mob. Lol.
Lol! Cracking me up!
Actually a coupe converted to a fastback even without added sub frames will have a more rigid body than either of the two as created by Ford . Now in my seventies I regret selling my 1967s in 1973 when I went in the US Army . Yes plural I had both S codes 390 at the same time from 70 to 73. The fastback had a 4 speed top loader the coupe had a C6 auto . The fast back body twister more under extreme load...versus the coupe. the folding seat in the fastback had their plus but only came in handy if I was ferrying 2x4x8 studs home ..and for that I always used my pick up truck .
Ford was brilliant in the unibody design not because it made a better car but they were the first to build a car completely from sheet metal. Ford innovated in manufacturing for many years this is one of them. On our end (the user) the unibody isn't the most rigid for high horsepower or impact. So we are left doing some work. The body design makes it worth it in value to put the effort in though.
@@ScottHarness1
Ford.. was not first to build uni-body cars in the USA, Nash 600 1941 to 1949 was .
The Nash 600 w. They were arguably the first at building larger production numbers uni-body cars and models for the USA market versus the other . Properly constructed a uni-body is stronger than body on frame ...the Ford 1960 TO 1967 Thunderbirds are an example of that .That body platform could take the high torque of big blocks all day long and not twist like the more anemically built Mustangs. I owned two 64s one with 390 the other with an optional truck motor a 430 with greater torque specs which was sold under a special corporate order system if the prospective buyer intended to tow a large trailer even though that engine ( 430 ) was not longer offered through dealer options since 1960 or 62 as my memory recalls. Why tow a trailer with a Tbird remains a mystery to me to this day ...fortunately bing 3 owner mine came without a trailer hitch .. and no signs of one ever having been installed 🖖
Good history and brilliant. I stand corrected!