[69f bird]

I am finally starting work on my '72 Formula 455 HO. It is an auto with AC. Silver with black interior, fairly well optioned. It has its original engine. I've always wanted a round port car...and I've owned this for nearly 15 years preparing for the project.

So, I want a nice car, but something I can still drive on the weekends...so not a trailer queen.

So, I am looking for thoughts and suggestions on the following, and any other suggestions you may have!

Suspension: 100% stock rubber, or any aftermarket upgrades? Springs, shocks, etc.?

Wiring: I am considering replacing all wiring harnesses...suggested brand?

brake and fuel systems: tanks, lines, straps...stainless or not?

Thank you for your suggestions!

[78w72]

all depends on the use of the car, if its just a driver & no drag or road racing or desire for improved handling then-

suspension- all stock rubber & hard parts. if better handling, PTFB GT suspension kit & bushings of your choice, rubber will ride best & are cheapest, but poly or the delalum will handle better & last longer.

wiring- if the original is in good shape reuse that, if not american auto wire has good quality replacements.

brakes- for street use, stock brakes but with upgraded pads for front, i use HAWK brand pads on my 72 & they have excellent stopping power & low dust & dont need heated up like some racing pads. stock quality rear shoes. can use slotted rotors & aluminum rear drums if you need to replace the stock stuff.

fuel- street use, stock steel lines are fine if in good shape, or buy new ones from right stuff detailing, stock large canister pump & steel line from pump to carb. if more power or racing robbmc mechanical with larger 1/2" lines, or for more $$ intank electric. stainless lines are nice but are very hard & can be tough to work with or get a good seal on flared ends.


sounds like a nice car & to have the original #s HO engine is awesome. my 72 was a base 350/350 model that was missing the engine/trans so i just went with a stroker & O-port E-heads.

[bird72]

Does it have the upgrade option TA suspension? If not, an easy upgrade to bigger front and rear sway bars is always fun and good. Good shocks also.

[turbo69bird]

69 f bird I can’t respond on PY it sends me to Face book for some reason. You can email me at cstockbird aol dot com about the shell.

[3tas4me]

Originally Posted by turbo69bird

69 f bird I can’t respond on PY it sends me to Face book for some reason. You can email me at cstockbird aol dot com about the shell.

Same thing happening to me.

[Elkykid]

That is a rare bird congratulations on starting the restoration. My personal advice try to stay as original as possible it is fine to switch over to some performance bolt on items just as long as you hold on to the original components.. My 1971 HO did not have Ram Air but I have all the components to change back including an extra hood with closed snorkels. I was also considering a hood tach since my car was not ordered with tach & guages.