Since I’m still kind of on the outside of the Cougar world and don’t know all the ins and outs of these cars yet, I thought I’d ask you folks. I found a very nice '69 standard Cougar, not the XR7 I want. I realized the reasons I really want an XR7 is for the full gauge cluster and the set of rocker switches and accompanying the extra interior lights. How hard are these pieces to find in nice shape and how hard are they to install in a car that came without them?
Easier, and probably cheaper, to find an XR7 than to convert a standard. Conversion would require underdash and engine compartment wiring harnesses, plus all the switches, gauge panel, sending units, etc.
Rocketman makes a tach that matches the font and style of the Standard guages.
The rocker switches come up on ebay quite often. I’m adding a set to my car with the map light. The only consideration will be relocating the parking brake warning light.
If you want a car to modify, a Standard is a good option. If you want a car that looks and functions exactly like an XR7, its probably better to find a real one.
That is very disappointing to hear, but I understand. I really want a '69 XR7, but this standard is so nice that I was considering it.
As far as finding an '69 XR7, I know that is the right way to go. I have yet to see a XR7 in my price range that isn’t too rough for my taste or in a color combination I just can’t deal with. I’ve haven’t found a nice survivor like this standard priced anywhere near it. I’m not unreasonable, I’m willing to pay more for an XR7. I found one kind of interesting XR7 for $5k more than the standard, but the door panels were home made and looked pretty badly done, the top of the sewn pleated insert was not parallel with the top edge of the door panel. From what I’ve been able to learn so far, nice interior parts are pretty much unobtanium other than seat covers, so I am really keying on finding a good interior in a solid straight car. I don’t think I’m looking for the grail, I don’t need a sunroof or a 428CJ. Per the price guides my price range is extremely reasonable.
I did see the new standard dash tach and it looks like it would be great, but the standard cluster still doesn’t have an oil pressure gauge. I consider an oil pressure gauge a must with the engine I’m planning. The problem is that Cougars don’t have a suitable place for gauges unless you give up the center AC vent. Any other ideas for that?
Shelby gauge pod for the console ashtray?
That would do the trick. Move the coolant temp gauge down there with the oil pressure gauge. Don’t need no stinkin’ ashtray.
Im sure you can find all the parts you want at http://www2.cougarpartscatalog.com/