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2018 Front End Conversion for 2015-2017

Boss Bandit

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So I bought my 2017 GT earlier this year with no regrets, but plans for replacing the hood, fenders, and bumper with something else down the line, mostly GT350 stuff with a Steeda front clip.

Now I'm wondering what it would take to go for the 2018 style headlights, since I've never particularly liked the shape of the 2015-17's, but not enough to warrant trading mine in and losing a ton of money in the process.

I think it's inevitable that someone will make GT350 fenders and hoods for the 2018. I'm hoping someone makes a revised front end that fixes the weird origami lower portion of the 2018 fascia.

I know we're still months away from anyone getting the first 18s, but does anybody know if we'll need a new radiator support structure to clear the lower hood line? I'm guessing so, since that's the case with the GT350.

Thanks guys.
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TexArmageddon

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If I'm remember correctly the GT350 isn't getting the new lines of the 2018.. at this point you either have to cut into existing parts and making it fit or hope another company does it.
 

jasonstang

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You will need everything new front clip. Nothing is reused.
As far as GT350, nothing is changed.
 

Yan

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Are the 2018 hood, bumper, headlights and fenders a direct fit to the 15-17 mustangs?
 

DarkSubRosa

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Are the 2018 hood, bumper, headlights and fenders a direct fit to the 15-17 mustangs?
I'm currently doing this and no, they aren't. It's not a simple buy fenders, hood and bumper and bolt on. There's more to it and there's been slight changes in the geometry in some areas. I'm working through it.
 

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Lawguy85

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Are the 2018 hood, bumper, headlights and fenders a direct fit to the 15-17 mustangs?
Not sure how much he removed turning a street car to a drift chasis, but he made it seem relatively straight forward.

[ame="[MEDIA=youtube]UJMrEBfelQk[/MEDIA]"]
 

JohnD

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You may not be doing yourself any favors by doing this. There's divided opinion on the new front end, seems as many opposed as in favor. It's possible you could diminish the resale value of the car as it would be highly bastardized.
 

Clink

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[MENTION=8271]JWS[/MENTION] has done a genuine 350 conversion on his 50th LE, if you need any advice on that front.
 
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x_man586

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How about a 2015-2017 conversion for the 2018:p
 

JWS

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DarkHor$e

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It's insane. Save yourself a whole basketload of time and grief, and just trade in on a used '18. You'll probably save $$$, certainly save time, and absolutely save your 2nd resale value and warranty . Ask your self this, Who in the hell when in the market for a '18 would want a bastardized '17? Who in the market for a 15-17 would want a 17 bastardized to look like a 18? What dealer would even touch that car as a trade in? It beyond a stupid idea. :frusty:
 

Fatguy

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It's insane. Save yourself a whole basketload of time and grief, and just trade in on a used '18. You'll probably save $$$, certainly save time, and absolutely save your 2nd resale value and warranty . Ask your self this, Who in the hell when in the market for a '18 would want a bastardized '17? Who in the market for a 15-17 would want a 17 bastardized to look like a 18? What dealer would even touch that car as a trade in? It beyond a stupid idea. :frusty:

Food for thought...


I was thinking the same thing for my V6 2017 Mustang. First change the front and rear ends to 2018 specifications. Then replace motor and tranny with the V8 and A10 and new exhaust. So much for a warantee there. Then upgrade the base interior and electronics to 2018 premium standards. Replace suspension with PP2 and those new wheels.

Or...


Trade in the car and buy a new one. Someone tell me because I need to know? :lol:
 

5.0 435

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This reminds me of the 14 C7 rear tail lights arguments. Most people who own a 15/17 mustang are not going to like any change period. This happens all the time with a refresh. The more 18/19 mustangs are out there the more people will chime in saying they like the current front. The new BMW 8 series sure has a lot of mustangs elements including the headlights to a degree. Roof line style definitely.... kind of like the Bullitt with the chrome piece also.
That’s a $100K+car there !
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DarkSubRosa

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Not sure how much he removed turning a street car to a drift chasis, but he made it seem relatively straight forward.

This is also a drift car, I've seen it in person and looked very very closely at it and I've spoken to people involved in other conversions. It's not as straight forward as you think.

If I had just bought a car and wasn't heavily modifying it, I wouldn't bother. If you want the 18, just buy the 18. If your car is a forever car or at the point of being so modified you give zero f's about the value and know you're never going to get out what you have in it like myself, yeah it's going to be a fun venture.
 

JWS

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It’s all about finding your perfect car. For me it was about most of the things I wanted to do to the Mustang when the S550 came out. I wanted a Black Roof, Chrome Window Trim and the best looking wheels.

Then the LE was announced. It was more expensive, but had all the things I was looking for.

And then, they announced the GT350! The front End was almost Perfect. But, there is no Automatic. A Deal breaker for me.

Yes, I’ve driven a 350R and the Clutch was Buttery Smooth, but I’m old and just want a luxury car (with Performance ) to Cruise on the Highway.

My 350 Conversion is about taking the better looking parts and leaving the rest. However, once I got started, I kept finding more and more parts that needed to be on the car for looks and continuity.

The 350 front end is one of the best looking on a Mustang, ever. The rear goes with the car very well and is also one of the best on a Mustang. The Brakes are the Best looking Mustang Brakes I’ve ever seen. I love the 350 Active Quad Exhaust. Under the hood, the 350 looks great, as is.

I believe the 50th LE Wheels are the Best ever. I love the Chrome on the windows and tail lights. I like the 50th LE interior.

I’ve tried to combine them all and add on some, what I consider, Luxury upgrades, just to make my perfect car.

Others will and have disagreed with my opinion and execution, but it is my car and one I won’t be selling or trading in, ever.

I’ve gone the expensive route, with new OEM parts, because my car was new and I wanted new, not used or salvage parts. I see nothing wrong with using Anderson or other clone parts. I would have done the same if I had purchased a base car and just wanted the better looks of the 350. Nothing wrong with saving money, either.

What’s great is the cool variety of different interpretations everyone has on their Mustang. And, everyone thinks theirs is the Best! And, they’re right! It is the Best car for them, and may be the Best overall.
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