1965 Ford Mustang Fastback & 1968 Mustang Convertible

Let There Be LightI have a '65 Mustang fastback with a Rally-Pac. My question is about the clock. It works great and keeps perfect time, so I hate to mess with it. Unfortunately, the clock light doesn't work. Is there a replacement light for this clock? If so, can it be easily installed? Where and how can I purchase the part?

More importantly, will I risk upsetting the clock operation by trying to get the light to work? Clock operation and function is more important to me than the light, although I'd like to get it to work if possible.Mike AucoinVia the Internet

The light for the Rally-Pac is simply a replaceable bulb in a snap-in-type socket. You have to remove the Rally-Pac from the steering column so the clock can be removed from the Rally-Pac body. The clock is a sealed, self-contained unit and its removal from the main body will not affect its operation in any way.

The clock is retained with two Phillips head screws that are easily accessed from the rear of the Rally-Pac. The wires to the tachometer and clock are long enough to allow the unit to hang loose from the steering column during the procedure. A cloth around the exposed steering column prevents accidental paint scratches. Once the retaining screws are removed, the clock drops out of the Rally-Pac body, as the wires are long enough to allow access to the light socket. Push sideways on the light socket and it will pop out of the clock assembly. The bulb is removed by pushing it into the socket and rotating it a quarter turn in either direction. A new bulb is available from parts stores; simply push it into the socket and rotate to lock into place. Push the socket back into the clock assembly and replace the clock into the main Rally-Pac body.

The tachometer bulb can be replaced in exactly the same manner, so you may want to replace that bulb at the same time.

In A FlashMy '68 convertible has recently developed an annoying problem. The left-turn signal has stopped blinking when signaling for left turns and instead stays on solid. The right signal works normally, as do both of them when the emergency flasher is turned on. I've tried putting new bulbs in front and rear, but that didn't clear up the problem. The deluxe hood-light wiring harness I replaced 18 months ago has new bulbs. Every once in a while, the left-turn signal works for a short time. I'm sure it's simple or something I'm overlooking, and I hope you can steer me in the right direction.

I also have a '68 GT/CS that's in the process of slowly being restored. It currently has the standard 14x6 steel wheels with wire wheel hubcaps. I love the look and want to keep the styling but would like a bigger "footprint," like 7-8 inches in width. Are steel wheels in 14x7 or 14x8 available from any source?Steve CondonPlover, WI

The flasher for the turn signals is worn out; that's why it works intermittently. The emergency lights use a separate flasher and therefore are not affected. Simply replace the turn-signal flasher and the signals will work correctly on both sides.

I am not aware of a Mustang parts vendor that can supply a wider steel wheel, as most of them market Styled Steel or other deluxe-type wheels. Try a local tire shop. Many vehicles used a 14-inch steel wheel with a 411/42-inch bolt pattern, including American Motors and Chrysler products. Since the wheels are not limited to Mustang use only, a local source should be able to match a 14x7 wheel to your needs as the tire dimensions dictate proper wheel offset. Try to maintain the stock offset to prevent tire clearance problems.