272 pages - March 2007
Green Metallic 1963-1/2
Galaxie 500 XL

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The 1960 Ford lineup now included a new small car named Falcon (SEE MAC's FALCON-COMET CATALOG FOR PARTS). The Galaxie was labeled "Full-Size." The Galaxie continued as the top-of-the-line model for Full-Size Fords. For 1960 the Big Fords were completely redesigned, sharing only engines and drivetrains with the previous year. Restyling started up front with the headlights being moved down into the grille.

Ford dropped the traditional round tail lights in favor of a new semi-circular design. Models included the Custom 300, Fairlane, Fairlane 500, and Galaxie. A new body style called the Starliner Hardtop with its distinctive roofline was added to the top-of-the-line Galaxie models but lasted only 2 years. 1961 saw more horsepower with three versions of the new 390 V-8, producing 300, 375, and 401 horsepower, and a heavy facelift for the full-sized Fords. Lubrication intervals were extended to 30,000 miles. Self-adjusting brakes became standard and the power steering system greatly reduced steering effort. 1962 saw the introduction of a new downsized Fairlane with a new 221 cubic inch engine. The big cars again had a thorough restyling. Two new Galaxie models were introduced: the 500 and the XL. The XL was the performance version and included a floor shifter and bucket seats. The Starliner 2 door hardtop was eliminated. 1963 produced more engine choices and more horsepower, with the 406 inch V-8 offering 385 or 405 horsepower, and the 427 inch V-8 offering a staggering 410 or 425 horsepower! Both small block and big block V-8's were available. Ford had a record year with 1.5 million built. All four Ford full-size lines received a facelift.

1964 was a big year for Ford Motor Company. The Mustang was introduced mid-year (SEE MAC's MUSTANG CATALOG FOR PARTS). Galaxie received new sheet metal for the sixth straight year. The Custom 300 was retired and replaced by the Custom and Custom 500. The 406 cubic inch V-8 was retired.

The advertising slogan for 1965 Full-Size Fords was, "Newest Since 1949." For the first time, Big Fords used coil springs at the rear axle. 1965 saw the introduction at mid-year of the top-of-the-line LTD. Ford abandoned round tail lights in favor of a large hexagon shape. Performance was the big thing in 1965 and 1966. Available engines included the SOHC 427 in two versions, each offering over 600 horsepower. These two engines were not installed at the factory, but were available from the parts department of your local Ford dealer. 1966 also saw the only year of the performance-oriented 7-Litre, boasting a 345 horsepower 428 cubic inch engine. Full-size Fords received what looked like some modest appearance revisions for 1966 -- however, the fenders, doors, and quarter panels are actually entirely different designs from 1965. 1967 was the last year without Federal safety and emission regulations. New features for big Fords included fingertip speed control, 8 track tape players, and SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic transmissions, but sales declined. 1968 was the "Ford has a better idea" year. The Federal regulations were evident in every model and line. The 302 V-8 was introduced. The 1969 Ford slogan was "The going thing." The 351 "Windsor," produced in Ford's Canadian plant, made its debut. For 1969 the chassis and suspension were almost unchanged but many appearance changes were made. Hoods were longer and rear decks were shorter. A new top-of-the-line series called the Brougham was added. The XL convertible and "Sportsroof" fastback hardtop were big sellers and in their muscle car version sported the four-barrel 429 V-8. For 1971, the Big Fords were restyled again. The XL series was discontinued but its convertible was moved to the LTD series. Front disc brakes were now standard equipment. The Big Fords were again restyled for 1971, and 1972 was the last year Ford offered full-size convertibles.

If you are contemplating the restoration of one of these Big Fords, or are already deep into a restoration, or are proudly driving your completed restoration, MAC's can help you. MAC's has been supplying a complete line of parts, accessories, supplies, manuals, and literature for Ford restorers since 1977. Our current 1960-1972 Ford and Mercury Passenger parts catalog
lists over 4,800 parts. It is fully illustrated and contains part numbers, prices, descriptions, quantities required, and years of application. The catalog is free if you own a 1960-1972 Ford passenger car. Outside the U.S. we do require a payment of $5.00 U.S. to cover the cost of postage.

MAC's Antique Auto Parts is THE place for old, vintage, classic or obsolete Ford parts & accessories. MAC's is a full-service mail-order company selling parts for 1909 through 1972 Ford antique autos – including old Hot Rod and Street Rod parts. We also carry auto upholstery kits and manuals for classic, vintage, antique Fords.

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