289-Powered 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 Convertible

Description

Introduced as part of Ford’s mid-size lineup for 1966, the Fairlane 500 Convertible offered open-air motoring combined with the clean, muscular styling of the era. Positioned as a premium trim level, the Fairlane 500 featured upscale interior appointments and a range of V8 engine options, making it a desirable choice for enthusiasts seeking both comfort and performance. Today, well-kept examples are sought after for their classic design and collectible appeal.

Reportedly stored for 27 years, this 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 Convertible was purchased by the seller in 2008 and subsequently refurbished. The work included installing a new engine and transmission, refreshing the interior, fitting a new convertible top, and performing a respray in Dodge Flame Red. Originally equipped with a C-Code 289ci V8, the car now features a replacement 302ci engine de-stroked using a 289ci crankshaft and connecting rods and featuring select performance upgrades as described below. Power is sent through a replacement TCI C4 three-speed automatic transmission sourced from Summit Racing.

This Fairlane 500 Convertible is now offered with its removed factory C-Code 289ci V8 engine and transmission, and a clean Virginia title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• Refurbished by the seller in 2008 after sitting in storage for 27 years

• Powered by a Holley 600 four-barrel carbureted de-stroked 302ci V8 (now 289ci)

• Replacement TCI C4 three-speed automatic transmission

• Finished in Dodge Flame Red (PR4) with a black folding soft top

• Reupholstered two-tone red and black vinyl and cloth interior

• Factory C-Code 289ci V8 engine and transmission included

Factory Equipment

• Bucket seats with full-length center console

• Four-wheel drum brakes

• AM pushbutton radio

• Heater and defroster

• Vent windows

• The chassis number (6H45C107304) decodes as:

  • 6 – Model Year: 1966

  • H – Assembly Plant: Lorain, Ohio

  • 45 – Body Style: Fairlane 500 Convertible

  • C – Engine Code: 289ci V8, 2-barrel carburetor

  • 107304 – Consecutive Unit Number

Modifications

• Replacement 302ci V8 (de-stroked to 289ci)

• TCI C4 three-speed automatic transmission

• 14” Cragar S/S chrome wheels fitted with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires

• Reupholstered two-tone red and black vinyl and cloth interior

• 289ci crankshaft and connecting rods

• Edelbrock intake manifold

• Holley 600 carburetor

• Roller rockets

• Mild camshaft

Servicing

Refurbishment reportedly completed by the seller in 2008 included the following:

• Repainted Dodge Flame Red (PR4)

• Engine and transmission replacement

• Convertible top replacement

• Reupholstered interior

Known Imperfections

• Paint and trim imperfections from age and use since refurbishment

• Some wear on interior consistent with time since refurbishment

Ownership History

From the seller: “This Fairlane was discovered in a garage after sitting for 27 years. I purchased it in 2008 and restored it myself, which included a new motor, transmission, interior, soft top, and a full repaint in Dodge Flame Red. I purchased a new roller 302 block [one-piece rear seal] and installed a 289 crank and rods, a Holley 600 double pumper four-barrel carburetor, an Edelbrock intake manifold, a mild cam, and roller rockers. The car has been driven sparingly since completion and remains in excellent condition overall. It starts fine, drives, shifts, and stops great!”

Included Items

• Factory C-Code 289ci V8 engine

• Factory automatic transmission

• Convertible top boot cover

• Spare tire