Classic Mustang Restoration Guide
"All the resources you need for your restoration project, from start to finish."
Last Updated May 1, 2024 | Meghan DrummondRestoring a classic Mustang is no small task. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t break it down into smaller steps. Here are some of our favorite how-tos to help you work through the process of bringing your first-gen back to life.
Get Your Classic Mustang and Learn About Its Equipment
Before starting your restoration, you’ll need to find the perfect classic Mustang to restore. From there, you may want to learn about its original equipment. You can use our data plate decoder and equipment code guides to get a better idea of what your Mustang’s stock options were. If you want to know even more about your Mustang’s original equipment, you may want to look into a Marti Report.
Classic Mustang Equipment Restoration Guides
Classic Mustang Exterior Restoration
Most classic Mustangs come with the kind of cosmetic wear and tear you’d expect after half a century. From missing emblems to tiny dents and dings, here are guides for fixing common exterior problems.
First-Gen Mustang Exterior Restoration Guides
Classic Mustang Mechanical Restoration
Some of the most common problems with classic Mustangs are related to wiring and heating and cooling systems. These guides will help you fix old, damaged wiring and radiator issues.
Classic Mustang Mechanical Repairs
Classic Mustang Interior Restoration
Interior repairs are easy wins. These upgrades require patience and persistence but can be done by beginning and experienced DIY-ers alike. Plus, you’ll see the benefits immediately.
Classic Mustang Interior Mods
Classic Mustang Brake and Tire Upgrades
You’re not going very far without brakes and tires that can support your build. Here’s what to know about swapping up to disc brakes and keeping your tires rotated.
Fix Your Classic’s Brakes and Tires
Classic Mustang Equipment Upgrades
A lot of classic Mustang equipment, from radiators to light bulbs, has a wide range of options. Here’s what to know about each and how to select the right gear for your build.
Equipping Your Classic Mustang
Classic Mustang Maintenance
Once you’ve done the hard work of restoring a classic Mustang, you want to keep it running well and looking sharp. Here are some of the maintenance procedures you should get familiar with and mark on your calendar.
First-Gen Mustang Maintenance Guides
Classic Mustang Restomod
For some, restoration is only a small part of what they have envisioned for their classic. Here are some of the most popular (and ambitious) Mustang restomod guides for the truly daring.
First-Gen Mustang Restomod Guides
Get Inspired by Some of Our Projects
Not quite sure where to get started? Here are some of the classic Mustangs the CJ’s crew has worked on over the years. We’ve included build sheets and videos so you can replicate what we did or give it your own spin.
- 50/30
- Forgotten Fastback
- 1965 Coupe Bolt-Ons
- Project Betty
Connect With Us
We’re always working on classic Mustangs, and our community loves sharing their builds. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to see the latest how-tos, or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see more builds and advice from the Mustang community.