**1961 Ford Thunderbird Hardtop Coupe – Running Project with Recent Refurbishment**
This 1961 Ford Thunderbird hardtop coupe is a running and driving project, purchased by the current owner in 2023. Since then, the car has undergone a partial refurbishment to improve mechanical reliability and interior comfort.
**Refurbishment Highlights**
Over the past two years, notable work has included:
– Rebuilding the three-speed automatic transmission
– Repainting the exterior in black
– Replacing braking components: master cylinder and wheel cylinders
– Replacing steering components: steering damper, idler arm, tie rod end, ball joints, and strut rod bushings
– Installing a new headliner and carpeting
**Exterior Features**
The Thunderbird’s exterior now sports a fresh coat of black paint applied under current ownership. Classic styling cues like chrome bumpers, rear fender skirts, and quad headlights remain intact. It rides on 14″ steel wheels with spinner-style covers, currently wrapped in Cooper tires. Please note, the seller reports that the tires are worn and the brakes are sensitive.
**Interior Details**
Inside, the car features red upholstery on the seating surfaces. The headliner and carpets have been replaced, and some interior trim has been repainted. However, the door panels are missing, and some exposed wiring is visible. Photos in the gallery below provide further details on the interior condition.
The dashboard includes a three-spoke steering wheel, a 120-mph speedometer, an analog clock, and a combination gauge for fuel level and coolant temperature. The five-digit odometer shows 31k miles but has rolled over. The horn has also been replaced.
**Mechanical Updates**
Power comes from a robust 390ci V8 equipped with a four-barrel carburetor, gold-painted air cleaner, and Thunderbird-branded valve covers. Under current ownership, the following components have been replaced or upgraded:
– Remanufactured high-output generator
– Fuel tank and fuel sending unit
– Voltage regulator
– Power steering belt
– Serpentine belt
– Additional miscellaneous components
A copy of the refurbishment invoice is included in the gallery below. The rebuilt three-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth shifting.
**Additional Information**
This Thunderbird is offered by the seller on behalf of the current owner at no reserve, complete with a refurbishment invoice and a clean Massachusetts title in the owner’s name.
For a closer look at the car, including detailed interior and exterior photos and the refurbishment invoice, please see the gallery below.
—
*Interested in bringing this classic Thunderbird project to its next phase? Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of American automotive history!*
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1961-ford-thunderbird-50/