Hi Guys,
I am the one representing the sale of #20 for my good friend, who now in his late 70s has decided to trim back his Shelby collection a bit.
In any event, as for the much maligned Falcon prop rod I can't say who installed it or when. It always seemed silly to me but the debate on this item on these early 2-digit factory show cars predates time it seems lol. Could it be part of a show car thing for added safety that the hood wouldn't fall? Again, I don't know and if nobody has a definitive answer 53 years later we may never have one. I do know it has been on #20 for at least 20 years so didn't have the heart to remove it. Of course, one cotter pin and poof it is gone if one desires.
Rocker stripes: When I originally bought the car in 2007 through Curt at Cobra Auto it had '66 style side stripes. It was explained that they went along with the other '66 "early" features like the smooth '66 seat covers. When my friend had my shop re-paint the car in 2014 to remove the incorrect LeMans stripes (my pet peeve) the decision was made to put '66 style rocker stripes back on. But, if the buyer wants '67 style ones I have a hair dryer and a stripe kit handy and will happily swap them out no charge. No paint will be required, just a quick re-do of the center of the front fender stripes.
I know it is just my opinion, and that and five bucks will get a curbside pickup cup of Starbucks, but I think #20 is a very special car. It is a unique early car with a great history, has all of the right bits, original tag, engine, etc. and a great deal of money has been spent making it run and drive as good as any old Mustang can.
As always I appreciate the wealth of knowledge and lively discussions here so thanks!
Sincerely,
Colin