1985 2.3L Turbo Coupe Grille

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TBird23T
Posts: 3
Joined: Tue May 14, 2019 3:18 pm

1985 2.3L Turbo Coupe Grille

Post by TBird23T »

Just started an 85 turbo coupe project and notice it has a grille that doesn't seem common. The front grille has one horizontal "cross bar" with what looks like a seat for the bird emblem.

I'm wondering if this was original from the 30th Anniversary models or some after market grille.

Anyone know anything about it?

Thanks!
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Alan H. Tast
Posts: 4214
Joined: Wed Aug 20, 2003 10:52 pm
Location: Omaha, NE

Re: 1985 2.3L Turbo Coupe Grille

Post by Alan H. Tast »

Never seen this treatment before. Definitely not OEM/factory as all '83-'86s had an "eggcrate"-type grille. Such large openings wouldn't help the turbo setup unless an aftermarket aftercooler was installed (?).
Alan H. Tast, AIA
Technical Director/Past President,
Vintage Thunderbird Club Int'l.
Author, "Thunderbird 1955-1966" & "Thunderbird 50 Years"
1963 Hardtop & 1963 Sports Roadster
TBird23T
Posts: 3
Joined: Tue May 14, 2019 3:18 pm

Re: 1985 2.3L Turbo Coupe Grille

Post by TBird23T »

Thanks for the reply.

The engine looks all original with no signs of mods or aftermarket parts. It probably is aftermarket, which is odd considering everything appears to be original. It has been sitting over 20 years.
Dansbirds
Posts: 118
Joined: Sun Apr 29, 2018 7:38 am

Re: 1985 2.3L Turbo Coupe Grille

Post by Dansbirds »

I think it was FMS that made those, my parents ordered a 83 back in 83 and par of the package that Ford gave them when it arrived was a accessory/add on booklet and that was one of the item. I still have it the calendar and the key chain here somewhere. If I can find it I’ll post some pics
Have had over 40 t birds here from 57-2004
Currently have a 65,70,and 80 Silver Anniversary
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