1981 T Top Restoration

[Bstreet]

Hey guys I'm on my 6th Foxbody and this time I'm doing what I've always done 1981 T Top Unibody is in good shape has a 5.0 that is ok but the interior and body is pretty banged up. I have a couple questions I'm hoping you all can cover

- What year tail lights will work on my 81?
- What year T Tops will swap with my 81?
- Where can I get external window trim?

thanks in advance

[sowaxeman]

1979-1982 tail lights are all identical. You can use 1983-1993 tail lights if you want, but I believe you will have to modify the bulb locations and maybe their exit points through the rear end...that part I am not positive about but it can certainly be done.

Pretty sure any t-tops from 1979 (or whatever the first year was) through 1988 should fit, however there are interior trim differences. I'm not sure if the "locking holes" were any different causing compatibility issues, but definite interior trim differences from 1979-1983 and then 1985/6 and think 1987/88

Can't answer about external window trim on the reproduction side (NPD maybe?)...but you should be able to find a decent set at a Pick n Pull yard. Depending on where you are located, Frank-n-Stang (Frank Ross) on ebay and the Fox Body Parts/Classified pages on Facebook would probably have some as he has been parting out junk fox Mustangs for years. He is here in Franklin, IN.

[wraithracing]

As stated above, the 79-82 Mustang lights are the same. You can also fit 79-82 Capri tail lights as they are a direct bolt in, but a different style lens. The 83-93 housings and tail light panels are different due to the changes in the bulb locations of the lenses. I don't recommend the swap due to the differences. Yes, you can make it work, but it will require modifications or completely swapping the tail light panel on the body.

1981 was the first year for the T-tops. As stated above there are some slight differences, but the tops should interchange without issues. The seals seems to be the biggest headache in regards to what was actually installed and what matches up with the aftermarket.

Which window trim are you referring to? I assume if you have a T-top you are referring to the flat trim just below the exterior dew wipes/belt trim. If so, to my knowledge the trim is not reproduced at this time so you will have to source either NOS, or good used parts. That trim was used on the T-top cars, the Pace Car, and the convertibles. It might have been part of a trim package too, but FoxChassis or someone else will have to verify that. Good Luck!