CTCC Library Inventory- update 3/24/10

CLASSIC THUNDERBIRD CLUB OF CHICAGOLAND
LIBRARY INVENTORY
[As of 3/24/10]

FORD THUNDERBIRD MANUALS, CATALOGS, BULLETINS
1 1955 Ford Car Manual
2 1956 Ford Car Manual
3 1957 Ford Car Manual
4 1955 Fordmatic Shop Manual
5 1956/1957 Fordmatic Shop Manual
1949/1959 Illustration Catalog (Form FD 9463)
7 1949/1959 Text Catalog (Form FD 9462)
8 1960/1964 Illustration Catalog (Form AF 7682)
9 1960/1964 Text Catalog (Form AF 7681)
10 1953/1957 Car & Truck Body Parts Catalog (Form 7422) Missing
11 1957 Ford Supercharger Manual (old faded/new) 2 copies
12 1955 Motorola Radio Service Manual (FDH-18805-B)
13 1956 Motorola Radio Service Manual (FEH-18805-B)
14 1957 Motorola Radio Service Manual (FEJ-18806-C) 3 copies
15 1955 Four Barrel Downdraft Holley Carb. Manual Model 4000 (C-228)
16 1956 Four Barrel Downdraft Holley Carb. Manual Model 4000 (C-228-1)
17 1957 Holley Carb. Service Manual Model 4150 (C-240) 3 copies
18 1955, 1956, 1957 T-Bird Electrical Equipment Installation Manual
19 1955, 1956, 1957 T-Bird Trim and Sealer Manual
20 1957 T-Bird Specification Manual
21 1960/1964 Lincoln-Mercury Car Parts Master Catalog (LM-8281-C-64) (LM-8281-B-64)
22 1960/1964 Autolite-Ford Car Parts Master Catalog Price List (FP-3636A)
23 1960/1970 Autolite-Ford Car Parts Master Catalog (AF-7635E)
24 1960/1970 Autolite-Ford Master Parts & Accessories Illustration Catalog (AF- 7635B)
25 Delco/Remy Care, Maintenance and Testing of Batteries (Service Bulletin #7D-55893-C 1969
26 Ditzler (PPG) Repair Manual Form #6199
27 Automotive Refinishing Manual by 3M
28 Morton Paint Company, Text Section #1 – Repair&Refinish Plastic 2 copies
29 Morton Paint Company, Text Section #2 – All Types Prep & Repairs 3 copies
30 Morton Paint Company, Text Section #3 – Color Matching, Masking, etc. 2 copies
31 1993-1997 (First Edition) CTCC Tech-Tip Manual
32 1998-2000 (Second Edition) CTCC Tech-Tip Manual
33 1950-1965 Ford products Interchange manual
34 1955-1993 Catalog of Thunderbird ID Numbers
35 1956 Dual Quad Thunderbird Specification Manual and magazine articles
36 1957 T-Bird sales Literature 3 copies
37 1955 Owner’s Manual Form 7513-55
38 1956 Owner’s Manual Form 7513-56
39 1957 Owner’s Manual Form 7513-57 2 copies
40 2009 Tech Session – Updated Routine Maintenance Schedule 10 copies
41 CTCI Restoration Manual (with)
Addendum A Addendum C Addendum E Addendum G
Addendum B Addendum D Addendum F


BOOKS
1 "Thunderbird" – An Illustrated History of the Ford T-Bird – By Pat Miller
2 "The Complete Ford Book" – Petersen Publishing Co., Copyright 1970
3 "Rock, Roll & Remember" – By Dick Clark & Richard Robinson
4 "All The Facts About the 1955 Ford" – Fomoco Publication
5 "All The Facts About the 1956 Ford" – Fomoco Publication
6 "All The Facts About the 1957 Ford" – Fomoco Publication
7 The Three Little Thunderbirds, 1955-1957: The Design Story
8 Ford T-Bird by Malcolm Birkitt
9 Thunderbird "1955-1957" by R. M. Clarke
10 Thunderbird "1955-1966" by Alan Tast
11 Ford Chronicle by James M. Flammang & David L. Lewis
12 Y Block Book, includes casting numbers, rebuild procedures, parts list, service bulletins, etc. 13 Thunderbird Milestones by Mike mueller
14 Caring For A Legend "The George Watts Story" by Mike Kooiman
15 The Fords, An American Epic by Peter Collier and David Horovitz
16 The Complete History Of The Ford Motor Company by Richard M. Langworth
17 Thunderbird Chronicles by Publication International, LTD
18 Soaring Spirit – 35 Years of the Ford Thunderbird by John Katz
19 2002 Thunderbird by Michael lamm
20


ILLUSTRATIONS, PROMOTIONALS, AND CHARTS
1 1957 Thunderbird Convertible Top Weatherstrip Installation and Adjustment –
Model #BAN-40A (Effective date 9/24/56)
2 1955, 1956 Wire Wheel Installation Illustration – Reprint by CTCI #121
3 1955 Promotional – Reprint by CTCI (1/55)
4 1955 Ford and Thunderbird Quick Facts
5 1956 Promotional – Form #A-2418 (6/55)
6 1955, 1956, 1957 Auto Color Library Color Charts
7 1955 Ford Thunderbird Field Modifications
8 1957 Ford Thunderbird Specs and Engine 11/08/56
9 1957 Promotional – Reprinted by CTCI (2/57) – Form #FD-7705
10 1966 Edition Rotunda Oil and Lubrication Guide – Vol. 66, PSM L8D
11 1966 And Earlier Passenger Cars – "Hygrade" Carburetor and Ignition
12 1997 T-Bird (new car brochure) – the last year
13 Thunderbird Illustrated (set)
1974 – Fall – Volume 1 - #1
1975 – Winter – Volume 1 - #2
1975 – Spring – Volume 1 - #3
1975 – Summer – Volume 1 - #4
1975 – Fall – Volume 2 - #1
1976 – Winter – Volume 2 - #2
1976 – Spring – Volume 2 - #3
1976 – Summer – Volume 2 - #4 Missing
14 1957 T-Bird Tune-Up Specification Chart
15


THUNDERBIRD ADVERTISEMENTS & REPRODUCTIONS
1 1955 Silver Anniversary Limited Edition Reproductions by Shay (1980)
2 1957 Thunderbird Classic brochure by Motor Car Reproduction Corporation (1980)
3 1955 reproduction advertisement – 11/8/81 (The Life Newspaper)
4 1957 reproduction by Renaissance Motors, Inc.
5 1981 newspaper article regarding similarity 1981 Ford Exp. And Mercury LN7, with the 1955 Thunderbird
6 1981 Fifth Third Bank Advertisement – Dayton, Ohio
7 1969 postcard of "Street of Old San Juan" with red and white T-Bird (DT-55893-C)
8 1993 Spring Hammacher Schlemmer front cover layout of Red ‘57 T-Bird owned by
CTCC member Jeff Janisch
9 1993 April 6 Bob Greene’s column "How to Engineer a Comeback"
10 1955 Chanel advertisement
11 1997 March 1 article Chicago Tribune [Business section] by Jim Mateja
12 1997 December 21 article Chicago Tribune [Transportation section] by Jeff Wilson
13 1999 January 2 article Chicago Tribune [Transportation section] by Jim Mateja
14 2002 Thunderbird New Car Brochures 4 Copies
15 2005 Thunderbird New Car Brochures
16


MAGAZINES & NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
1 December 1955 - Motor Trend, page 50-51 (T-Bird Spotlight)
2 May 1955 - Auto Age, page 11-13 (Proving Ground Report)
3 Annual 1955 - Sports Cars of 1955, page 48-49
4 November 1972 - Hemmings Motor News (1956 T-Bird Cover Car)
5 August 1990 - Classic Auto Restorer, page 22-32
6 October 1993 - Cars & Parts, page 22-26 (Tucker)
7 December 1993 - Cars & Parts, page 22-26 (’53 Corvette)
8 March 1994 - Cars & Parts, page 22, ‘62 T-Bird Sport Roadster
9 August 1994 - Cars & Parts, page 20, ‘60 T-Bird Convertible
10 October 1994 - Auto Restorer, page 14-21, page 22-25
11 November 1994 - Cars & Parts, page 20-24 (Nash Healey)
12 March 1996 - Cars & Parts, page 60, ‘58 T-Bird Stainless Steel T-Bird
13 July 1997 - Cars & Parts, page 10, ‘57 T-Bird (Mel Blanc) Supercharger
14 October 1997- Cars & Parts, page 10-15 (’57 Chevy Belair Convertible)
15 November 1997 - Motor trend, page 104, Bye Bye T-Bird
16 June 1998 - Car and Driver, page 38-42 (The New T-Bird)
17 January 2003 - Automotive News, page 1 & page 12
18 February 2005 - Cars & Parts, page 20-28 & page 32-37
19 March 2005 - Old Cars Weekly, page 6
20 August 2000 - Auto World, page 16-17 (The New T-Bird)
21 October 2000 - Car and Driver, page 38-42 (New T-Bird preview)
22 June 2001 - Automobile Collectable, page 18-21 (Vicky) and page 40 (T-Bird)
23 July 2001 - Motor Trend, page 36-46 (2002 Test Drive)
24 August 2001 - Road and Track, page 52-57 (2002 Road Test)
25 June 2002 - Motor Trend, page 56-63 (Car of the Year) and page 136 (Rare Bird S.C.)
26 March 2005 - Old Cars Weekly, page 6
27 March 2007 - Cars and Parts, page 14-17 (1957 "F" Bird) and page 44-48 (The Battle Bird)
28 July 2007 - Hemmings Classic Car, page 14-33 (History of the Thunderbird)
29 March 2008 Cars and parts, page 14-17 (Born to Cruise)
30


CLASSIC THUNDERBIRD CLUB OF CHICAGOLAND – OLD ISSUES OF "BIRD NEWS"
1 1962: Complete set of (8) issues beginning Apr 1962 [Sept is missing] 1 – Missing
2 1963: Complete set of (12) issues
3 1964: Complete set of (12) issues
4 1965: Complete set of (12) issues
5 1966: Complete set of (11) issues (Jan/Feb combined)
6 1967: Complete set of (12) issues [July is missing] 1 - Missing
7 1968: Complete set of (10) issues (July-Aug / Sept-Oct / Dec‘68-Jan’69 combined)
8 1969: Complete set of (11) issues (Dec’68/Jan’69 combined) [Mar-May-June-Aug-Sept is missing] 5 - Missing
9 1970: Complete set of (12) issues [Apr-June-July-Sept-Dec is missing] 5 - Missing
10 1971: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
11 1972: Complete set of (12) issues
12 1973: Complete set of (12) issues
13 1974: Complete set of (11) issues (July/Aug combined)
14 1975: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
15 1976: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
16 1977: Complete set of (12) issues
17 1978: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
18 1979: Complete set of (11) issues (July/Aug combined) Extra issues
19 1980: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
20 1981: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
21 1982: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
22 1983: Complete set of (12) issues (Dec’83/Jan’84 combined) Extra issues
23 1984: Complete set of (12) issues (Dec’83/Jan’84 combined) Extra issues
24 1985: Complete set of (11) issues (June/ July combined) Extra issues
25 1986: Complete set of (10) issues (Mar/Apr and July/Aug combined) Extra issues
26 1987: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
27 1988: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
28 1989: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
29 1990: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
30 1991: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
31 1992: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
32 1993: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
33 1994: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
34 1995: Complete set of (12) issues
35 1996: Complete set of (12) issues
36 1997: Complete set of (12) issues
37 1998: Complete set of (12) issues
38 1999: Complete set of (12) issues
39 2000: Complete set of (12) issues
40 2001: Complete set of (12) issues
41 2002: Complete set of (12) issues
42 2003: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
43 2004: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
44 2005: Complete set of (12) issues
45 2006: Complete set of (12) issues
46 2007: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
47 2008: Complete set of (12) issues Extra issues
48 2009: Complete set of 912) issues Extra issues
49 2010:
50

VIDEO & CD’S
1 1984, 1985, 1986 – Birds in the Dells
2 1992 Christmas
1993 Spring Tour – Galena, Illinois
1993 CTCI Headquarters – California
Spring Tour – Part 1
3 1993 Spring Tour – Part 2
1994 March 20- T-Bird Breakfast & Capizzi Car Collection & Meeting
1994 July 26 – On the way to Dearborn, Michigan – CTCI Nationals – Part l
4 1994 July – CTCI National Convention – 40 Years of Thunder – Part 2
1994 August 21 – Thunderbird Picnic at the Parrs
1994 October 2 – At the Arlington International Race Track 1995 Regional Ad Book Cover
Picture (Kneebone ‘55, Johnson ‘ 56, Server ‘57)
1994 October 8 – Fall Tour – Michigan
5 1995 Chicagoland Regional
1995 September 9 – Oak Park, Illinois Mall Show
1995 Spring Tour – Iowa and Duffy’s Auto Sales Showroom
6 1992 Spring Tour
1993 Spring Tour – Galena, Illinois
1995 Chicagoland Regional
7 1994 The Early Birds – Armour Productions
8 1991 July 31 and August – CTCI Regional, Dayton, Ohio
9 1992 Romancing the Classics
10 1989 CTCI Regional – Chicago, Illinois
1991 CTCI Regional – Dayton, Ohio
1992 CTCI Nationals – Tulsa, Oklahoma
11 1992 CTCI Nationals – Tulsa, Oklahoma
12 1991 Felix Natoli – 1956 Dual Quad Demo
13 1990 – Amos Minter T-Birds for Sale video
14 1997 CTCC in review
1996 December 7 – Christmas Party
1997 January 19 – Como Inn & Dinner Play, Chicago, Illinois
1997 May 3-4 – Spring Tour, Dodgeville, Wisconsin
1997 June 4-7 CTCI Regional – Des Moines, Iowa
1997 August 23 – Annual Club Picnic (Parrs)
1997 October 3-5 – Fall Tour, Springfield, Illinois
15 2002 DVD – The Ford Thunderbird "An American Icon"
16 This is Auburn DVD – Donated by Perry Anthony
17 Fabulous Fords of the 50’s DVD
18 CASCO – How to Recover Your Ford Thunderbird Soft Top DVD
19 CTCC DVD – August 20, 2005 Baby Birds Birthday Bash
20 Barrington, IL 9/10/05 – 50’s Sporty Cars Stamp Dedication
21 2009 DVD – The year in review 2-copies

CTCI "EARLY BIRD" BACK ISSUES
Index Composite Index 1963 to 1995 (1995 is the last year to-date)
Vol 1 1963: Complete set of six (6) issues 2-sets
Vol 2 1964: Complete set of six (6) issues 2-sets
Vol 3 1965: Complete set of six (6) issues 2-sets
Vol 4 1966: Complete set of five (5) issues (No May/June issue printed) 2-sets
Vol 5 1967: Complete set of six (6) issues 2-sets
Vol 6 1968: Complete set of six (6) issues 2-sets
Vol 7 1969: Complete set of five (5) issues (Mar/Apr and May/June combined)
Vol 8 1970: Complete set of five (5) issues (two 3-month issues – July-Aug-Sept and Oct-Nov- Dec)
Vol 9 1971: complete set of four (4) issues (Jan-Feb-Mar / Apr-May-June / July-Aug / Sept- Oct-Nov-Dec)
Vol 10 1972: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 11 1973: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 12 1974: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 13 1975: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 14 1976: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 15 1977: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 16 1978: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 17 1979: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 18 1980: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 19 1981: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 20 1982: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issue
Vol 21 1983: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 22 1984: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 23 1985: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 24 1986: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 25 1987: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 26 1988: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 27 1989: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 28 1990: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 29 1991: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 30 1992: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 31 1993: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 32 1994: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 33 1995: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 34 1996: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 35 1997: Complete set of six (6) issues Extra issues
Vol 36 1998: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 37 1999: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 38 2000: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 39 2001: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 40 2002: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 41 2003: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 42 2004: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 43 2005: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 44 2006: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 45 2007: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 46 2008: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 47 2009: Complete set of six (6) issues
Vol 48 2010:

CTCI "ROSTERS" BACK ISSUES
11 1973: CTCI Membership Roster
12 1974: CTCI Membership Roster
13 1975: CTCI Membership Roster
14 1976: CTCI Membership Roster
15 1977: CTCI Membership Roster
16 1978: CTCI Membership Roster
17 1979: CTCI Membership Roster
18 1980: CTCI Membership Roster
19 1981: CTCI Membership Roster
20 1982: CTCI Membership Roster Missing
21 1983: CTCI Membership Roster
22 1984: CTCI Membership Roster
24 1986: CTCI Membership Roster
25 1987: CTCI Membership Roster
26 1988: CTCI Membership Roster
27 1989: CTCI Membership Roster
28 1990: CTCI Membership Roster
29 1991: CTCI Membership Roster
30 1992: CTCI Membership Roster
31 1993: CTCI Membership Roster
32 1994: CTCI Membership Roster
33 1995: CTCI Membership Roster
34 1996: CTCI Membership Roster
35 1997: CTCI Membership Roster
36 1998: CTCI Membership Roster
37 1999: CTCI Membership Roster N/A
38 2000: CTCI Membership Roster
39 2001: CTCI Membership Roster N/A
40 2002: CTCI Membership Roster
41 2003: CTCI Membership Roster N/A
42 2004: CTCI Membership Roster
43 2005: CTCI Membership Roster N/A
44 2006: CTCI Membership Roster
45 2007: CTCI Membership Roster N/A
46 2008: CTCI Membership Roster
47 2009 CTCI Membership Roster N/A
48 2010: CTCI Membership Roster

MISCELLANEOUS
1 1995 Activity Photo Album
2 1982 Chicagoland Regional Program Books 9 copies
3 1996/1997 Activity Photo Album
4 1993 April 3 Bylaws of the Classic Thunderbird Club of Chicagoland
5 1995 August 16-20 Regional Convention Records
6 1995 August 16-20 Regional Program Book
7 Extra copies of CTCC Tech-Tip Manuals (For Sale) 2 copies
8 2000 July 26-30 National Convention Records
9 2000 July 26-30 National Program Book 17 copies
10 2005 August 20 Baby Bird Birthday Bash (B-4) Program Book

"FOR SALE"
EXTRA INVENTORY OF CTCI EARLY BIRD AND ROSTER ISSUES
New or Old Members: Now is the time to begin your collection, or find that missing issue!
$2.50 Per Issue, or $2.00 for (5) or more + Postage
All funds derived from the sale of these issues, are for the support of CTCC

VOL YEAR Jan/Feb Mar/Apr May/June July/Aug Sept/Oct Nov/Dec Roster
11-- 1973---- 0-------- 0-------- -0 ---------1---------- 1------ 0------ 0
12-- 1974---- 1-------- 1--------- 2---------- 1--------- 1------ 1 -------0
13-- 1975---- 0-------- 1-------- 0---------- 1-------- --1------- 2 ------0
14-- 1976---- 1-------- 0---------1-----------2--------- 0------ 0------- 0
15-- 1977---- 3-------- 2--------- 3-----------1 ---------1------- 3-------0
16-- 1978---- 3-------- 3--------- 4---------- 2--------- 2------- 3------ 0
17-- 1979---- 3-------- 4--------- 3---------- 3--------- 3------- 3------ 0
18-- 1980--- 3--------- 3--------- 2---------- 3--------- 3-------3------ 1
19-- 1981---- 2-------- 1--------- 3---------- 3--------- 3-------3------- 1
20-- 1982---- 3------- 2--------- 2---------- 2 ---------2------- 2------- 0
21-- 1983---- 2-------- 2-------- 2---------- 2 ---------3 -------3------- 1
22-- 1984---- 2-------- 3-------- 1---------- 2--------- 2------- 2------- 1
23-- 1985---- 2-------- 2-------- 3--------- 2---------- 2------- 2------- 1
24-- 1986---- 3-------- 3--------2---------- 2--------- 2------- 2-------- 1
25-- 1987---- 2-------- 2 --------2 ---------2---------- 2------- 2------- 1
26-- 1988---- 2-------- 2 --------2--------- 2 ----------2------- 2------- 1
27-- 1989---- 2-------- 2-------- 2--------- 2---------- 2------- 2------- 1
28-- 1990---- 3-------- 2 --------2 --------4 ----------4------- 4-------- 2
29-- 1991---- 2-------- 3-------- -3-------- 3 ----------3------- 3--------1
30-- 1992----2---------3---------3---------3----------3--------3--------1
31-- 1993---- 2-------- 2 --------3-------- 3--------- 3-------- 2-------- 0
32-- 1994---- 2-------- 2-------- 1-------- 1--------- 1-------- 1--------- 0
33-- 1995---- 1-------- 1-------- 1-------- 1----------1--------1--------- 0
34-- 1996---- 1-------- 1-------- 1-------- 1 ---------1-------- 1--------- 0
35-- 1997---- 1-------- 1-------- 2 --------1--------- 2-------- 1--------- 0
36-- 1998

MINI TECH-TIP

Removing Glove Box Lock Assembly

The Glove box lock assembly should last for years without any reason to remove it for service. However, if the lock ever needs to be serviced for one reason or another, here are the steps to make it a breeze.

#1. Remove the glove box door. This consist of 3 screws for the hinge and 4 screws for the two glove box arms.

#2. Remove the 6 screws that attach the glove box to the dash. After these screws are removed and with the arms pulled out in the open position, remove the box by working it slowly to the left being careful not to force or damage the fiberboard.

#3. Reach through the glove box opening and feel for the 2 Phillip screws (one on each side of lock assembly). With a short stubby Phillips screwdriver remove these two screws, and the assembly can now be removed for service.

Dave Tulowitzky
SOURCE: Trail Bird News - January 2010

Cover March 2010 Bird News

Cover Photo Credit: The following photos appeared in WHERE THE CARS ARE, a compliation of stories by T-Bird owners.
1955: Lamburtus Kim Warmolts, Tarpon Springs, FL (TorchRed)
1956: Ralph & Ginny webb, Upper St. Clair, PA (Peacock Blue)
1957: Robert Burtness, Santa Barbara, CA. (Flame Red)
* book published in 1990 by Specialty Publishing dba Craftsman Printers, Inc. Lubbock, Texas 79404
Catalog Card# 90-9204

Original Owner photo- 1959

Chrysler Report

EDITOR"S NOTE: This page, and the following two pages, represent a condensed version of a 10-page report prepared by the Chrysler Corporation in March of 1954. From all indications, this early assemblage of Specifications and photos might well suggest that Chrysler was engaging in a clandestine bit of industrial espionage!
Although not an uncommon error, even in many post production T-bird reviews, the "spy team" noted a "non-functioinal Air Scoop..." ( the poor quality of the photo, copied from a previous copy, prevents determination of the inside scoop detail.) Also of interest, note the underside hood sound deadening, "waffle-patterned" material!

Photo Captions: Top photo: Standard Transmission, Overdrive and Fordomatic are offered. Gear shift levers, including that of Fordomatic, are placed on the floor. In addition to the regular instruments, a Clock and Tachometer are furnished.
Center photo: The telescopicaoly adjusted steering column with 3 inch travel in and out is standard equipment. Power windows and Power seats are offered at extra cost. Controls for both are on the door. The tops of the doors are 33.7 inches high.
Bottom photo: The steering gear is standard but a linkage modification lowers the over-all to 20 to1 from the 25.4:1 of a regularFord.
Bendix Link Type Power Steering costs extra.
Power Brakes are offered at extra cost.

FORD'S THUNDERBIRD
Prepared by the Engineering Publications Department
CHRYSLER CORPORATION Engineering Division
Technical Information Section__ __ March - 1954 _ __ _
THE THUNDERBIRD


Whether for prestige or profit, Ford has decided to answer the challenge of the Chevrolet Corvette with a sports type car of its own, the Thunderbird.


Top photo: A non-functional Air Scoop is placed in the Hood
top to clear the Air Cleaner.
Center photo: The frame, made especially for this model, is of
conventional construction with box type side rails and an x-
member.
The front suspension is of the regular ball joint type slightly
modified to decrease the tread from 58 to 56 inches. 11 inch
Mercury brakes are used.
[Note: green used by Editor to highlight info error!]


Ford hopes to get into production with this car this coming Fall. Indications are that it will be priced below $3.500.

The body will be of all-metal construction, the only fiberglass component being the optional and removable hard top. A folding, manually-operated fabric top is standard equiptment, as are metal frame glass windows with windup handles.

Most of the mechanical elements are production items. The engine is a slightly modified Mercury with a nominal rating of 160 HP at 4400 RPM and a torque of 238 lb-ft at 22-2800 RPM. (Ford states that the car uses a Police Interceptor engine which is, of course, the Mercury.)
The prototype model is described in the following picture story. Undoubtedly, changes will be made before this car reaches production.

CONDENSED THUNDERSIRD SPECIFICATIONS
Wheelbase ................... 102"
Tread - Front and Rear ........... 56"
Over-all Length ............... 175.2"
Over-all Width ............... 70"
Over-all Height (with fabric top) ...... 60"
Leg Room .................. 45.8"

Hip Room ................... 60.2"
Shoulder Room ................ 55.6"
Road Weight ................. 2837 Ibs
Rear Axle Ratios .............. Optional
Rear Suspension ............... Semi-Elliptic
General Clearance .............. 5-1/2" at frame
Tire Size .................. 6.4O x 15


EDITOR'S NOTE: Quite remarkably, much of the information contained in this early 1954 Chrysler "spy" report, quite accurately defines the T-Bird's design features! Bear in mind the fact that actual production did not commence until August 25, 1954 (S/N 100004). For example, the report records a "manually operated fabric top" (pg. 8). Even later on - in 1955 - some articles indicated it to be "a power operated top."
The reference to pricing ("below $3,500) is also an accurate forecast. A common mistake, even in post-production articles, is the mention of the "fake hood scoop" (pg. 10). The photos show the Fair-lane headlight trim, which was featured on the very first production units. The fender shields do not have the stone-guard that was introduced on later '55's.

Original Owners Story

ORIGINAL OWNER STORY by: Joe Kraatz

In the Fall of 1954, while at my desk in the Chaplain's Office of the U. S. Army in Fort Carson, CO, I sat admiring a special brochure. This brochure, that my father had just sent me, was of the new Thunderbird. Wow, what a great car! As I admired this beauty, I started looking at it closely and decided the car needed a straight bodyline with skirts, like the 1951 Mercury. Fast forward to April 1957.

Photo Caption: 1957 E Model, 3-Speed Overdrive, Both Tops, Tonneau Cover, FoMoCo Spotlight, Power Seat, Engine Dress Up Kit, Signal Seek Radio, 110,000 miles

In April 1957, after special ordering and a two-month wait, I took delivery of my 1957 "E Model" Thunderbird. It was my only vehicle at the time, and I drove it every day. I was working in South Bend, IN, and living in Valparaiso, IN, so it was about 150 miles per day. About once a month, there was a weekend trip to Western New York to see my family. Thus, another 1,200 miles The T-Bird was an all-weather car, driven winter and summer. Indiana snow and salt did take its toll.

In 1962,1 put some special undercoating on it, added my "nationally known" Mercury Cruiser Skirts, and did a repaint. From 1958 to 1968,1 owned and operated a Mobil gas station (thus the Mobil red paint under the hood on the fan shroud and heater assembly). I am constantly asked why I have a trailer hitch. Well, I donl have a yacht to tow, but I was a U-Haul trailer dealer, also. Many evenings my wife, Sandy, and I would spend a summer evening traveling to the U-Haul factory in Hammond, IN, to pick up a factory-fresh trailer.

Sandy and I dated in the T-Bird, and in 1963, we took our honeymoon in it to the Florida Keys, up the East Coast to New Jersey, and back to Indiana (with the top down, of course)! Sandy remembers being wrapped up in an army blanket traveling through the Smoky Mountains. It was quite chilly in April, but I did not want to put the top up. What a way to treat your new bride!

In June of 1964,1 joined the Classic Thunderbird Club International. I found my cancelled check written to Roger Neiss, Editor, dated 6/13/64 for $10 (membership $5 a year, plus $5 "initiation fee"). My CTCI membership number is 299.

For quite a few years, the T-Bird was only driven occasionally during the summer. When our daughters started driving, they were allowed to drive the 'Bird so they would learn to handle a stick shift on the floor. They also drove our 1968 Mustang that Sandy's parents purchased new and that was a stick shift also. Our girts were trained right!

About 15 years ago, having retired and realizing we would finally have time to enjoy the 'Bird, Sandy and I joined the Classic Thunderbird Club of Chicagoland. When we learned of the Thunderbird 40th Celebration in Dearborn, it was the big signal to get the'Bird out of hibernation and prepare it in a roadworthy condition for the 500 mile trip. This was our first big event and trip with the Chicago Club. The members of this club have been so gracious and helpful to us over the years, and we really treasure their friendship. Our daughter, Kami, is also a member of this club. She still talks about our trip to Dearborn for the 40th event, with the three of us in the Bird traveling with the top down.

We take in most all road trips with our club, and I even enjoy taking the car out on dry, winter days. T-Bird and Mustang Club activities and car shows keep us on the go. As I talk to people about the car, I like to tell them - three more payments and it will be all mine!!!

My T-Bird is a "keeper" as is my wife, and I have luckily been able to keep them both all these years.
Joe Kraatz, CTCI #299

PRESIDENTS REPORT

Happy New Year, Fellow CTCC Members!

2010 is shaping up to be a busy year for us. We started off with a great outing planned by Bob and Helen Hoge. The delicious Brunch at the Onesti Restaurant in St Charles was followed by a riveting performance at the historic Arcada Theater, featuring the magic of Terry Evanswood, Bob and Helen's very talented son.

A capacity crowd enjoyed free pizza and pop at the February Membership Meeting where we gave preliminary acceptance of the 2010 budget. Our March meeting will include formal approval of the budget and election of three Directors.

Many members have expressed an interest in attending the CTCI International Convention in Dayton in June. On March 6, Ken Smizinski is offering a planning meeting to discuss and answer questions about the Concours. The CTCC Board decided to eliminate the Annual Spring Tour this year and encourage members to attend the Convention.

A Spring Tech Session is scheduled for April 24 at Bob and Sue Wenderski's home. June 27 is the date of a one-day outing to Joliet and July 17 is the date of the 4th Annual Hot Dog Gala. Please refer to the "Calendar of Events" for information about all of the Club's planned activities

I look forward to seeing you throughout the T-Birding season.
- Len Keil

The Editors Notebook

THE CTCC CALENDAR FOR 2010 HAS BEEN FINE-
tuned since the publication of the February issue of B-N. The HOT DOG & BRATS GALA event date has been changed to July 17th. The revised dates for the Fall Tour: September 17-20.

This issue marks the first in the 49th year of publication for BIRD-NEWS. So, Happy Birthday to B-N as we head for 50!

See page 5 for updated info on the SPECIAL Breakfast meeting: Are You Convention Bound? This is a MUST for your Concours entry.

The featured item for this month is the March 1954 Chrysler Report on the design parameters and specifications for the 1955 T-Bird. The material, reduced from 10-pages (8 1/2x 11"), is on pages 8-10.

See page 4 for PREVIEW information on the CTCC Tech Session.

CTCC has donated $500 to the Dayton Convention. In addition, a member has anonymously donated $250, making the total $750!

Our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Karen Kelly who is now at home, following her recent surgery.

Bert Eisenhour

Editor's Notebook- Feb. 2010

THE Editor's NOTEbook
BERT EISENHOUR

THE CTCC CALENDAR FOR 2010 HAS BEEN FINE-tuned since the publication of the January issue of B-N. The HANGAR event date (August 22), has been confirmed by our host, member, Ken Kresmery. The revised date for the ONE-DAY Spring Tour is June 27th since Bob Hoge has learned that the Park site is not open in May. A SPECIAL meeting has been set-up for those members who are planning to enter a 'Bird in the CTCI International Concours competition. Details are presented on page 5. Are You Convention Bound? (A good introduction to one of the main items to be discussed appears on page 18 of the Jan./Feb. issue of EARLY BIRD magazine.) Check it out.

Speaking of the Convention, your room reservations should be made as soon as possible! Some rooms are already sold-out.

The January B-N list of contributors to our Holiday Party gift list (page 7) omitted the following firm: SURF CITY GARAGE - 5872 Engineer Drive, Huntington Beach, CA. We appreciate their help.