The Barn Find

In 2022, I had the thrilling experience of purchasing a classic 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 from a farm in Las Vegas. When I first laid eyes on it, the car had been sitting beneath a tree for over 25 years, a relic of the past waiting for the right owner to bring it back to life. Remarkably, it ran and drove at the time of purchase, and since then, it has been sheltered in my garage, away from the elements.

Engine Insights

The previous owner mentioned that the engine had been “gone through,” which piqued my interest. While I installed a Holley intake manifold and a Carter AFB carburetor, the inner workings of the engine remain a mystery. Interestingly, it was reinstalled with the original cast iron exhaust manifolds, which are cracked, and it retains the original single exhaust and muffler. This aspect gives the car a certain character, but upgrading these components is something I may consider down the line.

Interior Restoration

When it comes to the interior, the previous owner made some replacements and started the reinstallation process. However, the aftermarket AC system was only partially installed and has since been taken out. I did keep the York-style compressor and condenser for potential future use. One highlight is that all the gauges on the dashboard work perfectly, except for the clock. It’s also worth noting that the car was not originally equipped with a tach dashboard, which adds to its vintage appeal.

Exterior Condition

The exterior of this Mustang is in impressive condition, free from dents and rust. During an extensive cleaning where I removed pine needles and hay, I took the opportunity to visually inspect areas like the firewall, fenders, rear quarter panels, and trunk for rust. The paint, despite being aged, still shines, though it definitely needs repainting. The years of sitting outside have taken their toll, particularly on the roof and left rear quarter panel.

Current Performance

As for performance, the Mustang has proven to be a reliable cruiser around San Diego County. I find myself driving it approximately once or twice a week, enjoying the mixture of nostalgia and modern reliability.

Specifications Overview

Here’s a detailed rundown of the specifications that make this Mustang a joy to drive:

• Engine: 351 cu.in. Cleveland V8
• 2V cylinder heads
• Holley Street Dominator 4bbl intake manifold
• Edelbrock AV2 Avenger carburetor
• K&N air filter with Moroso cover
• Flowtech long-tube headers with 3” collectors
• Pertronics electronic ignition with MSD coil
• Polyurethane engine and transmission mounts
• Exhaust: Pypes 2.5” stainless steel X-pipe exhaust with Street Pro mufflers
• Mufflers are turbo style flow-thru with no baffling.
• Transmission: FMX, 3-speed automatic transmission
• Wheels: 15×7 American Racing Torq thrust wheels
• Tires: Cooper Cobra tires (less than 1000 miles since new)
• Front – 215/65R15
• Rear – 235/60R15
• Other Features: OE Rear spoiler
• Recent Replacements:
  • New battery
  • Front brake discs, pads, and wheel bearings
  • Rear brake shoes
  • Power steering box
  • Full fuel system replacement (tank, sending unit, fill neck, seals, gas cap)
  • Plugs, wires, distributor
  • Turn signal switch
  • Transmission rear output seal
  • Transmission modulator/governor

For those interested, a Marti Report is available upon request, offering additional insight into this classic vehicle’s history.

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Your Dream Car Awaits

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