Rad Rides Shows Restraint in Reimagining a Custom 1966 Ford Thunderbird
Jim Bridgewater has owned many classics and hot rods over the years, including a string of ’37 Fords to commemorate the year he was born. This ’66 Thunderbird Landau is a bit of a departure for him, but it’s a car he has long wanted to own. He didn’t want a heavily customized and modernized cruiser, but a respectful reimagining of Ford’s personal luxury car.
Jim turned to longtime friend Troy Trepanier and his team at Rad Rides by Troy to execute his vision. After finding a solid survivor, the Rad Rides crew began the process of turning this example of ’60s luxury into a more dependable celebration of the era. At first glance, the Thunderbird may not look much different than stock, but that was part of the plan.
The original chassis and big-block V8 were rebuilt and upgraded while the body received subtle improvements. Most obvious was the removal of the padded landau top, refinishing the metal, and applying satin-finish paint that respects the vintage look. Both bumpers were tucked, excess trim removed, and the rear fender skirts deleted. Turn signals were integrated into the custom grille, which also has a recessed emblem to clean things up. After additional refinements and improvements were made, Glasurit Bridgewater Brown Metallic paint was applied to the body.
The original unibody chassis was rebuilt and dropped by installing 2.5-inch lowering springs in front and lowering blocks in the rear. The front end also received a 1.25-inch sway bar and Viking shocks. The stock front discs and rear drum brakes were upgraded with a Rad Rides electric brake booster and master cylinder system. Rad Rides machined the classy 18×7- and 18×8-inch wheels that carry Diamond Back whitewall tires.
The factory 428c.i. FE V8 was rebuilt with a slightly more aggressive cam, Holley Sniper fuel injection, and a Billet Specialties TruTrac accessory drive. A GM 4L65E four-speed automatic overdrive transmission connects the engine and stock rearend. Maintaining the respect for the car’s originality, stock hood hinges were restored. Vintage T-bird valve covers were detailed and paired with modified air cleaner connected to a fresh air box.
Adam Banks at Rad Rides worked his magic inside with custom aluminum door panels and headliner, modified seats, and rich Garrett leather upholstery with Apex carpet. The updated dash has a custom pad, restored gauges by Classic Instruments, and a host of refinements to the trim. The signature T-bird swing-away steering column was retained, and the stock wheel updated with a custom horn ring.
The result is a classic ’60s cruiser that preserves its vintage style while being more refined and elegant in every way. Jim will definitely ride in style in this ’Bird.
Congratulations to Jim Bridgewater for being named a Finalist for Goodguys 2026 Vintage Air Custom Rod of the Year with his 1966 Rambler American built by Rad Rides by Troy!
Photos: John Jackson
