[Redneckgearhead]

In 65/66 the difference between the long and short consoles was if the car had ac it had a short console, if it did not it had a long one.

The difference in length was under the dash.

 

[Flade]

The console was part of an option package available with any Mustang. As said above the console was cut short only to fit the optional under-dash A/C unit. The manual and Auto consoles were identical except for the plate over the shifter.

 

[image98]

Adding to the thread. Convertibles have a single piece seat riser with two humps along the center tunnel, so their consoles have a different contour along their base. Coupe and fastback center consoles can be cut and trimmed to fit convertibles. Center consoles for 65 and 66 cars with air conditioning are nearly identical, except for the end cap trim which are different between the two years. Also, cars equipped with a factory bench seat could not be optioned with the center console.

 

[Huntingky]

It is my understanding too, that if the air was a dealer added option, the long console was cut to fit. Mine looked like somebody crossed their eyes for good luck and hacked away.

 

[Flade]

It is my understanding too, that if the air was a dealer added option, the long console was cut to fit. Mine looked like somebody crossed their eyes for good luck and hacked away.

They all started as long and were hand cut which is why they need the end cap.

 

[South 66]

They all started as long and were hand cut which is why they need the end cap.

I was looking at buying a console at some point (my car has A/C), so do the reproduction "shorties" come with the end cap on them? Or is that another separate purchase I would have to make?

 

[subpar63]

More than likely would have to purchase that end cap - availability might be an issue

CONSOLE END CAP, A/C - #044D38-2A - National Parts Depot (npdlink.com)

John

 

[Flade]

I was looking at buying a console at some point (my car has A/C), so do the reproduction "shorties" come with the end cap on them? Or is that another separate purchase I would have to make?

The kits sold by NPD (and others) include the end cap. They are a complete console but don’t include the installation parts.

CONSOLE ASSY, A/T - #045A36-1AEK - National Parts Depot

 

[J_Speegle]

Yes all of the 66 consoles were the same (sifter insert, casting colors and long and shirt versions aside) there were a number of differences in the 64 1/2-65 versions

 

[Flade]

Yes all of the 66 consoles were the same (sifter insert, casting colors and long and shirt versions aside) there were a number of differences in the 64 1/2-65 versions

Very interesting to learn. I have never heard that before. Is there a good way to identify one of the early versions?

 

[J_Speegle]

Very interesting to learn. I have never heard that before. Is there a good way to identify one of the early versions?

There were changes from the early to the later like

Automatic shift bezel/plate. Smooth no raised "bumps" or arrows to ones with.
Automatic shifter plastic shift indicator plate/lens from no red arrows to ones with arrows
Rear lamp housing from to chrome vacuum plated plastic to chrome metal.

Think there are a couple of other little details that are not visible once installed.

When comparing 65-66 you also have the location of the "glove box" light, the light holder and the related wiring.

Related thread on the Concours site

64 1/2 through 66 Console Features and Differences

 

[Nos681]

Yes all of the 66 consoles were the same (sifter insert, casting colors and long and shirt versions aside) there were a number of differences in the 64 1/2-65 versions

what do you mean about casting colors?

My San Jose July built 65 console was made in a Palomino color. It is not painted or dyed when I purchased the car over 30 years ago.

I’m quite sure I was the first to remove it from the car in early 90’s…heater core replacement.

 

[Flade]

There were changes from the early to the later like

Automatic shift bezel/plate. Smooth no raised "bumps" or arrows to ones with.
Automatic shifter plastic shift indicator plate/lens from no red arrows to ones with arrows
Rear lamp housing from to chrome vacuum plated plastic to chrome metal.

Think there are a couple of other little details that are not visible once installed.

When comparing 65-66 you also have the location of the "glove box" light, the light holder and the related wiring.

Related thread on the Concours site

64 1/2 through 66 Console Features and Differences

I knew about the change in the light position, but not the others. Always nice to learn new things!

 

[J_Speegle]

what do you mean about casting colors?

My San Jose July built 65 console was made in a Palomino color. It is not painted or dyed when I purchased the car over 30 years ago.

Should have chosen my words with more care. I meant the color the main console section was molded in

 

[Nos681]

Could you explain the differences?

I would like to know for my own curiosity.

Appreciate it.

 

[Woodchuck]

I had a friend with a Buick Riviera.... that sucker had a loooooong console.

 

[bburns31]

My 66 has one. A/C and automatic.