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Author Topic: Replace later tail lights with early ones?  (Read 1402 times)

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Offline JohnW

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Replace later tail lights with early ones?
« on: April 12, 2012, 01:14:35 PM »
Can I install taillights from an early Pinto on my '80 without modifying anything? Or did they change the sheetmetal on the back?
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Offline oldkayaker

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Re: Replace later tail lights with early ones?
« Reply #1 on: April 12, 2012, 03:05:22 PM »
The late model tail lights and associated sheet metal openings are taller than the early models.  The earlier lights will not bolt up and cover the larger openings with out some modifications.  I have the outside portion of a late panel and the early light bolts up but has a visible gap at the bottom.  Not sure about the center portion fit.  Probably have to fill/drill the panel for a proper fit/placement of the early lights.  This ebay vendor presently has photos of both panels for comparison.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NOS-1971-1976-Ford-Pinto-Rear-Body-Tail-Light-Panel-/110821469181?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item19cd796bfd
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NOS-1977-1978-79-Ford-Pinto-Rear-Body-Tail-Light-Panel-/120837922512?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item1c22805ed0
Jerry J - Jupiter, Florida

Offline JohnW

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Re: Replace later tail lights with early ones?
« Reply #2 on: April 12, 2012, 06:38:55 PM »
Thanks, that's what I figured. I'll have to cut the metal out when I find a donor. I think I saw a trashed Maverick in a junkyard, might have to go find it and do some cutting and welding...
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