Here are some interior shots showcasing the dash design of the Ford Fairlane 500 XL GT Radio Dash from the mid‑1960s. Notice how the horizontal styling integrates the instrument cluster and radio area, with a clean, symmetrical layout that defines the era.
More Insights on the Ford Fairlane 500 XL GT Radio Dash
Radio Delete Dash Panels
If you’re looking to restore or customize your dash, radio delete panels are a practical option. There are original or reproduction panels designed to fill the radio opening, often seen with matching gauges or filler plates. One specific example is:
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A 1967 Ford Fairlane 500 XL GT Radio Dash with gauges listed for around US $900
Additionally, there are new lens panels for delete setups, such as the “1966 Ford Fairlane 500 XL GT Radio Dash Lens” listed for approximately $180
Instrument Clusters & Gauge Options
You can source original or reproduction dash clusters and bezels:
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A 1967 Ford Fairlane 500 XL GT Radio Dash cluster (pre‑owned) is available for roughly $395
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Various dash cluster housing and gauge components are regularly offered on restoration parts marketplaces
Rally-Pac Accessory Unit
Many GT owners sought the distinctive Rally‑Pac, a tachometer and clock mounted on the steering column. Introduced in mid‑’60s Fords, it matched GT styling and is highly collectible today—including modern reproductions
Modification Tips from Enthusiasts
Restorer communities offer hands‑on advice when fitting modern radios or creating panels:
Another user shared a practical tip for modern installations:
Summary Table
Task | Recommendation |
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Original restoration | Search eBay or parts specialists for original delete panels or dash clusters from the 1966–1967 era—some complete dash sections are available for higher-end restoration projects. |
Retro fit / modern radio | Use a Radio‑Delete panel or create a custom bracket; modifying the dash lip improves fit and finish. |
GT‑specific accessories | Consider adding or restoring a Rally‑Pac tachometer/clock for authenticity and enhanced appeal. |
Gauge cluster options | Pre‑owned or reproduction clusters can be found for reasonable prices; verify compatibility with original GT styling. |
About the Ford Fairlane 500 XL GT Radio Dash
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Classic Layout: In models like the 1967 Ford Fairlane 500 XL GT Radio Dash, the radio and instrument cluster were often integrated into a wide, horizontal dash bezel. Special trims, like GT packages, added sporty cues such as unique gauge treatments or the optional Rally-Pac—a tachometer and clock unit mounted on the steering column, though this was discontinued after 1966
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Radio-Delete Variants: Some Fairlane dash assemblies were offered without a radio (called “radio delete”), likely intended for customers who opted out of the factory-installed radio or later removed it. These versions replaced the radio opening with a filler panel and sometimes came with matching gauges
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Reproduction Parts: If you’re restoring a GT dash that requires a radio-delete panel, reproduction parts are available—even for Fairlane and Galaxie models. Suppliers like Red Venom offer reproduction radio delete plates with ribbed or plain face styles, though for Fairlane-specific years (e.g. ’64–’65), availability is more limited
Visual & Functional Tips from the Classic Car Community
Several restorers and enthusiasts have shared practical insights:
These comments underscore a popular solution: using retro‑style radios with modern capabilities (like Bluetooth, USB, or digital tuning) that fit the original dash openings, preserving the classic look while upgrading functionality.
Summary Table
Concern/Task | Recommendation |
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Restore original GT radio bezel | Seek original or reproduction dash cluster with radio opening and correct GT trim. |
No radio installed or want clean look | Install a radio-delete dash or filler bezel; reproduction parts may be sourced. |
Upgrade with modern audio features | Use retro-style modern units (e.g., RetroSound) that mimic period appearance. |
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