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-   -   Making my 32 for the open road now (https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=355841)

Old Redneck 02-21-2026 11:42 AM

Making my 32 for the open road now
 

I am not going to show my 32 any more so I am going to make some changes to it. I installed turn signals and dual taillights, Electric fuel pump, Push button starter under dash, Larger rear view mirror and front shimmy shock. Like to get rid of the Rumble Seat and just a trunk Lid? Just thinking about that. Maybe Dual exhaust with Glass Packs.? I had duals on my 32 coupe and they sound nice.Yes Outside Mirrors. Maybe a Heater and I have it. Wife said next you probably Mud Flaps. Since you said that[ Maybe ? Never seen Skirts on a 32 I said. She thinks I lost my mind. Maybe. At 86 what makes the difference

The Art Doctor 02-21-2026 12:06 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

I 100% support modifications that will make the cars safer and better outfitted for functional use for their owner on today's roads. What good is a car that cannot be driven and enjoyed? The more cars on the road the more interest they will generate.


There is a reason you have not seen skirts on 32-34, they look funny, at least to me. But they are out there and can be had if you really want to. The trucker mudflaps with the chrome silhouette of a reclining young lady would make an interesting statement.

GB SISSON 02-21-2026 12:06 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

Go for all of it! Me? I like the mudflaps, but not a fan of fender skirts. Way too hard to put the tire chains on. With no more of them pesky judges looking over your shoulder, it's your turn to be singing 'I did it MY way!'.

TJ 02-21-2026 01:41 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

Redneck, at 86 just go for whatever you want to do to that 32.

38coop 02-22-2026 09:16 AM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

Go for it. Have fun while you can.

flatford8 02-22-2026 09:21 AM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

Quote:

Originally Posted by TJ (Post 2438727)
Redneck, at 86 just go for whatever you want to do to that 32.

I second this idea!…..do whatever makes you happy!………Mark

Bored&Stroked 02-22-2026 03:55 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

I say that anything that makes it safer and more pleasant to drive is a great thing . . . go for it!

Tim Ayers 02-22-2026 05:03 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bored&Stroked (Post 2438933)
I say that anything that makes it safer and more pleasant to drive is a great thing . . . go for it!

100% and agree with all of the above. Cars are made to be driven and whatever you need to do to make that happen I'm 100% for it.

tubman 02-22-2026 07:59 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

I have sorta the same problem. My arthritis has gotten much worse over the last year, especially in my shoulders. I can still do most things, but one thing I can't do any more is lift the hood on my '51 high enough to get the prop positioned. (I think anyone with a shoebox Ford can attest to how heavy the hoods are.) I've rigged up a hoist in my shop that works when I'm there, but I'm at a loss about what to do out on the road.

Tim Ayers 02-22-2026 09:13 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

Quote:

Originally Posted by tubman (Post 2438971)
I have sorta the same problem. My arthritis has gotten much worse over the last year, especially in my shoulders. I can still do most things, but one thing I can't do any more is lift the hood on my '51 high enough to get the prop positioned. (I think anyone with a shoebox Ford can attest to how heavy the hoods are.) I've rigged up a hoist in my shop that works when I'm there, but I'm at a loss about what to do out on the road.

I don’t have a Shoebox, but can you install hydraulic lifts like those used on a modern car?

GB SISSON 02-22-2026 09:19 PM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

Quote:

Originally Posted by tubman (Post 2438971)
I have sorta the same problem. My arthritis has gotten much worse over the last year, especially in my shoulders. I can still do most things, but one thing I can't do any more is lift the hood on my '51 high enough to get the prop positioned. (I think anyone with a shoebox Ford can attest to how heavy the hoods are.) I've rigged up a hoist in my shop that works when I'm there, but I'm at a loss about what to do out on the road.

Sounds like a neatly placed pair of gas strut lift stays are in order. Unfortunately I see much trial and error in the fitment. Once again, if we are gonna continue to enjoy our Fords, some old rules might be broken.

pistonbroke 02-23-2026 09:53 AM

Re: Making my 32 for the open road now
 

I've never let anyone tell me what I needed to have or do with my cars and trucks short of the law. Well, I have fudged there a time or two as well I guess. If it is safer, looks good and feels right do it. Tim


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