56 Hard Top
Moderator: Joe Johnston
Re: 56 Hard Top
As noted, it is a real trial and error process to properly position a right side mirror on many classic cars. Forget trying to make things symmetrical with the left side.
If possible, use a mirror with a convex lens. It will give a larger field of view.
Just remember “Objects in the Rear View Mirror May Appear Closer Than They Are”. Oops! Just channeling Meatloaf.
If possible, use a mirror with a convex lens. It will give a larger field of view.
Just remember “Objects in the Rear View Mirror May Appear Closer Than They Are”. Oops! Just channeling Meatloaf.
Rusty
VTCI 13079
VTCI 13079
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Re: 56 Hard Top
The right (passenger side) mirror has to be mounted farther back than the left mirror for that reason. Unless the left mirror is also moved back, they will not be even.Tape the base of the mirror to prevent scratching the paint. While you're sitting in the driver's seat, get a helper to move the right mirror until locating the sweet spot. Mark the location before drilling holes. It sounds like a lot of trouble, but I think it's a small sacrifice to make to avoid a collision. I'm not inclined to drive with the top off/down as often as some of you might do.
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Re: 56 Hard Top
Interesting. I notice you also don't have the full wheel covers or fender skirts. Was this an attempt to lower the initial price of the car? Are there any other accessories not installed such as P/S, P/B power windows or seat & auto transmission? Looks great though. Mine has almost every option other than power seats but I don't miss that option at all.
That car originally had PS, PB, PW, P Seat, Automatic Trans, full wheel covers, fender skirts, both tops and seat belts. I had it for decades with KH wire wheels too and was tired of cleaning them, so went for a different look with the wide whites, hub caps instead of wheel covers. The car had several other modifications too.
That car originally had PS, PB, PW, P Seat, Automatic Trans, full wheel covers, fender skirts, both tops and seat belts. I had it for decades with KH wire wheels too and was tired of cleaning them, so went for a different look with the wide whites, hub caps instead of wheel covers. The car had several other modifications too.
PLEASE invest a few bucks and buy all the shop manuals for your car. Definitely will save you much time and be an education.
55-57 VTCI Forum Moderator
57 Inca Gold-Colonial White
63SR Silver Mink
55-57 VTCI Forum Moderator
57 Inca Gold-Colonial White
63SR Silver Mink
Re: 56 Hard Top
Here’s a photo I took on a visit to Gil’s house some years back. His 57 had the hub caps as well. I always liked the look. You don’t see it very often.
Re: 56 Hard Top
That is a cool combination, Thanks for posting.....God Bless you Gil .
1956 Thunderbird Sage Green
1953 Ford Custom Liner Hot Rod With Flat 8 Motor with Henderson three 2 barrel Carbs
VTCI Member # 12309
1953 Ford Custom Liner Hot Rod With Flat 8 Motor with Henderson three 2 barrel Carbs
VTCI Member # 12309
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Re: WTB 56 Hard Top
WTB hardtop for my 1956 Thunderbird - prefer portholes
Re: WTB 56 Hard Top
Amos Minter has plenty.chuck4436@gmail.com wrote: ↑Thu Mar 28, 2024 11:50 pm WTB hardtop for my 1956 Thunderbird - prefer portholes
VTCI # 13223
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Re: 56 Hard Top
It may not be an issue with whichever top you wind up with (55 or 56) but the weather seals on the 55's and early 56's are different than the late 56's.
Re: 56 Hard Top
All tops from 55-57 leak like a seve. Been there have experience it !
1956 Thunderbird Sage Green
1953 Ford Custom Liner Hot Rod With Flat 8 Motor with Henderson three 2 barrel Carbs
VTCI Member # 12309
1953 Ford Custom Liner Hot Rod With Flat 8 Motor with Henderson three 2 barrel Carbs
VTCI Member # 12309