Lowrider Legend: Rick Dore’s “Tango” Thunderbird with Custom Flair and 390 Power This 1963 Ford Thunderbird Custom, Lot F214.1, set to cruise into Glendale 2025 on Friday, March 21st, is a rolling masterpiece crafted by the renowned Rick Dore and known as “Tango.” This custom Thunderbird, featured in a 10-page article in Custom Rodder Magazine, showcases an array of bespoke modifications and artistic touches. Powered by a rebuilt 390 CI V-8 engine, coupled with a rebuilt factory transmission, this Thunderbird delivers a smooth and powerful ride. The custom blend Tequila Sunrise urethane paint, pinstriped by Doug Jerger of Squeege’s Customs, creates a striking visual. The top has been chopped 3 inches, and the bodywork, performed by John Harvey, includes stretched fenders, shaved handles, and rounded corners. The 390 V8 engine, rebuilt for performance and reliability, ensures this Thunderbird is as powerful as it is beautiful, offering a classic American V8 experience with modern custom enhancements.
Design Details: Custom Artistry and Lowrider Elegance The Thunderbird’s exterior features a custom blend Tequila Sunrise urethane paint, pinstriped by Doug Jerger, creating a unique and eye-catching finish. The top has been chopped 3 inches, and the 1961 Thunderbird hood has been stretched and the scoop restyled. The custom grille opening and billet bullet grille by Western Engineering, along with extended front fenders and custom headlight frames, enhance the car’s distinctive look. The shaved bumpers, rolled pans, and custom taillight housings fabricated from bumper pieces add to the car’s sleek appearance. The Air Ride Technologies front and rear airbag system, installed by Butch Clark, allows for adjustable ride and a smooth ride. The Colorado Custom 14×7 Segundo wheels with whitewall tires complete the lowrider aesthetic.
Interior Comfort: Pearl White and Orange Luxury and Custom Touches Inside, the Italian Pearl White Naugahyde and Orange Fabric upholstery, crafted by Bob Devine, creates a luxurious and vibrant cabin. The black Mercedes-Benz-style carpet adds a touch of sophistication. The custom overhead console and smoothed and filled dashboard enhance the interior’s custom feel. The factory front bucket seats with a custom rear seat provide comfortable seating. The Panasonic 10 CD Stereo with remote, MTX amps, and speakers, installed by Gary Patterson from Lodi Auto Stereo, provides a high-quality audio experience. The windshield, custom-made in Sweden by Timo Tanskanen, adds a unique touch.
Performance and Power: Rebuilt 390 V8 and Air Ride Smoothness The 390 CI V-8 engine, rebuilt by Desert Cylinder, delivers strong performance. The factory transmission, rebuilt by Tony’s Racing Trannys, ensures smooth gear changes. The Edelbrock Performer intake and 650 carburetor, along with the Jet Hot coated exhaust and dual Hooker stainless glass packs, enhance the engine’s power and sound. The Fatman Fabrication 3-inch drip spindles and Unkl Al’s Lowglide rear leaf springs contribute to the car’s smooth ride and handling. The 4-row U.S. Radiator by Don Armstrong ensures efficient cooling. The Ron Francis wiring, installed by Larry Smith, ensures reliable electrical performance.
Summary:
- 1963 Ford Thunderbird Custom “Tango” by Rick Dore.
- Rebuilt 390 CI V-8 engine.
- Rebuilt factory automatic transmission.
- Custom blend Tequila Sunrise urethane paint, pinstriped by Doug Jerger.
- Chopped top, stretched hood, custom grille, and headlights.
- Air Ride Technologies airbag system.
- Italian Pearl White and Orange interior by Bob Devine.
- Panasonic 10 CD Stereo with MTX amps and speakers.
- Colorado Custom 14×7 Segundo wheels.
- Featured in Custom Rodder Magazine.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and condition are based on available information. Potential buyers should conduct their own inspection and verification.
Source: mecum.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
