RyanMerrick's 1995 Mustang GT Convertible Build Thread

This is a build thread for my Mustang GT Convertible to chronicle the car's progress over the years. Primarily I'm posting this for my own benefit, but I always appreciate feedback and ideas.

This first post will contain my ongoing plans, as well as links to specific posts when the modifications have been completed:

BODY/EXTERIOR
- Repaint vehicle in original Laser Red paint
- Black Convertible Top
- 1-2" Lowering Springs
- Hood Strut Kit
- 03 Cobra Wheels
- Removal of Protective Door Strips

ENGINE/DRIVETRAIN
- Auto to Manual T-5 Transmission Swap
- Cold Air Intake
- MSD Distributor Cap
- MSD Ignition Coil
- Cobra Disc and Caliper Conversion
- 2.5-3" Exhaust System, with Cats Deleted
- Smog Pump Removal
- AC Compressor Removal
- Battery Relocation to Trunk
- Smaller Hidden Coolant Overflow Tank

INTERIOR
- Reupholster Leather Seats
- New Carpet and Floormats
- New Headliner
- Reupholster Visors
- Audio System Upgrade
- Additional Vehicle Data in Cabin (via digital or analog gauges)

LIGHTING
- LED Bulbs in Stock Taillight Housings
- LED Lighting in Dashboard/Cabin
- Cobra Headlights
- HID Headlights & Fog Lights

 

I purchased the vehicle back in February of 2003. The Mustang was the first car I ever purchased back when I was 17. I was looking for a vehicle that would not only get me from point A to point B, but something I could have fun driving and working on. After an exhaustive search trying out all different types of cars in my price range, I narrowed it down to a SN95.

I found my 1995 Mustang GT Convertible with 74,000 miles on it, and picked it up for $7,000. The car was fully loaded with every possible option except for the Cobra package. The original color combo was Laser Red w/Saddle convertible top.

Now that I have a new daily driver (1997 Chevy 2500 Pickup; Build Thread HERE), I can finally turn my Mustang into a project/fun car. Here's the oldest pictures I have of the Mustang.

 

Hahaha thanks, it needs a lot of work though

 

For the first few years, I didn't really do anything to the car other than basic maintenance and a whole lot of driving. Put on several thousand miles going between Chicago and school in Texas though.

 

Started off with removing the protective door strips on the doors. Waited until a hot summer day and pulled them off with patience. Had to use a small amount of Goo Gone to remove some adhesive still on the body. It's small but I think cleans up the appearance of the car.

 

My original convertible top was Saddle colored but was tattered, so I decided to replace it with a black on instead. The install took a total of 8 hours, with no prior upholstery or top replacement experience. Total cost for the project was only $450. Local shops were asking for $1500.

 

Thanks!

 

My old, hazy headlights weren't helping the car at all in the looks department, so I upgraded to Cobra headlights.

 

My wife decided to surprise me with a couple items for the Mustang, including a Stack Racing cold air intake, MSD ignition coil, and MSD distributor cap. I also decided to start trying to clean up the wiring in the engine bay. I rerouted as much as I could into the passenger side fender.

Overall these mods added noticeable power, but nothing groundbreaking. I was surprised with how much I could hear the CAI while driving however.

 

Since my 20 year old carpet and floormats were looking a bit sketchy, it was time for replacement. I decided to go with the same stock color, as black tends to highlight the cheapness of the stock interior even more. The end result is phenominal, but it was exhausting climbing all over the interior and working on things at awkward angles.....I'm glad this is over...

While I was in there I also added sound deadening material over the enter floorpan. Doors and trunk are next.

 

Currently my Mustang has been spending a lot of time parked throughout the year unfortunately, due to lack of time with work and baby. Progress won't be fast but I'll keep plugging along when I have time.

Recently I took it out of storage to give it some exercise and the thing fires up strong like always. All the time sitting definitely isn't helping it any though...

 

It's called Noise Control Mat on eBay. Sewlow recommended it on GMT400.com so I decided to give it a shot. It's a great bang for the buck.