National Parts Depot is Restoring American Muscle Car History One Ford Mustang Part at a Time

Perhaps no other automobile represents American innovation and culture more completely than the beloved Ford Mustang. When it comes to restoring one of the most famous musclecars in history it is important to have all the proper parts and accessories.

Although there are some who prefer keeping their Mustang as authentic as possible, with all the original parts, there are times when these parts must be replaced. Besides, who wants to spend a bundle on a new paint job if the trim, chrome, emblems, mirrors, taillights, etc. are worn or pitted originals?

While it might be fun for some to search junk yards and swap meets for the ideal part for a 1965 Mustang, there is a much easier way thanks to our friends at National Parts Depot. Before musclecars, like the Ford Mustang, were considered classics the choices were limited when it comes to finding parts. Whether the choice was to clean up the original items, or attempt to find parts that are in near ideal condition, NPD is quickly becoming the leading retail distributor for classic Ford Mustang parts.

We caught up with the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of this classic auto parts company, Richard Schmidt, to find out how they are doing their part to aid classic Ford Mustang muscle fans.

Offering direct shipment of Mustang reproduction parts across the United States in as little as 1-3 days, the hard-working employees at National Parts Depot assist in the restoration of Mustang models from as early as 1965 all the way to the all-powerful 2004 SN95 Mustang.

How exactly does a reproduced Mustang part compare to an OEM part?

A reproduction or ‘repro’ part is manufactured to meet Ford Motor Company’s specifications by a manufacturer who is immersed about each target model. The best way to explain this is, reproduced parts allow a past OEM part that is no longer in production to be brought back to life with the same type of quality that it once had. So, obviously this part looks, feels and operates like the original part with a new twist.

“Our goal has always been to meet and/or exceed the factory original,” said Schmidt. “The only way that this happens is by our taking the necessary steps to identify the best and most capable manufacturers, and then working as long and hard as it takes to meet the standards of our customers.”

So, how does NPD locate the perfect reproduced part?

“Diligence and patience is what’s vital to get things right,” said Schmidt. “Typically, at least two, and preferably three-or-more, original NOS (New Old Stock) or good-used parts are required to submit as benchmarks, from which the reproduction-part development and tooling can be derived. Once the factory has produced pre-production samples, these parts must be test-fitted for proper fit/function, and carefully scrutinized for correct finish, materials, durability, and aesthetic quality/correctness. Any aspects that do not meet our high standards, go back to the drawing board until it’s right.”

Even Louvers for a 1969 Mach 1 Mustang are available for a reasonable price with National Parts Depot.

Along with being much like the original, what are some additional benefits of reproduced parts for an automotive hobbyist?

“Many hobbyists underestimate the amount of demand of reproduced parts, including Mustang parts,” said Schmidt. “Although the tooling for these parts can be immensely expensive, well over 6-figures for larger sheetmetal items, we find a way to sell each part – like louvers for a 1969 Mach 1 Mustang – for a reasonable price. If the up-front costs divided by the forecasted sales volume requires a retail-price that is so high, that no one in their right mind would pay it, then the project is DEAD ON ARRIVAL.

Obviously, there is a point where you can’t justify spending Rolls Royce money to reproduce a Mustang part, but my goal has always been to meet and/or exceed the factory original. The only way that happens is by identifying the perfect manufacturer, and then working as long and as hard as it takes to meet your standards. I guess that is because we love cars, like the Mustang, just as much as everyone else.”

So, how has reproducing parts like the ones mentioned become easier with available technology upgrades?

“Computer/laser scanning and digital modeling has greatly increased the level of quality,” said Schmidt. “We have always encouraged the manufacturers that we work with to constantly improve and prioritize quality. Recent reproductions that we co-developed here at NPD turned out so nice. I can confidently say that they are superior in fit, finish and execution to original GM!”

If you are in the process of rebuilding a piece of American history, be sure to check out all that National Parts Depot has to offer at NPDLink.com.

 

 

About the author

Ellen Richardson

While some little girls enjoyed playing with dolls and makeup when they were growing up Ellen Richardson, appropriately nicknamed the Automotive Maven, played with Matchbox Cars and watched her neighbor rebuild old musclecars. As she grew up this born to be writer began spending all her spare time web writing about the things that she loves the most - cars and racing. When not informing web viewers about the latest in automotive power, this auto maven spends time with her automotive photographer spouse attending as many races and auto shows as possible.
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