Replace taillights from 1974 to 1968 Ghia

[toeinthewater]

Hi,
I've tried searching for this topic, but no luck, so here goes:
I much prefer the 1969 taillights and front indicators to the larger ones on the 1974 model. Has anyone done such a replacement modification, and do you have any pics of the conversion?
Thanks.

[toeinthewater]

Sorry, that should read ".....1968 taillights........"

[Marc]

`60-`69 rear and ~65-69 front look the same IIRC. Unless you're a very good metalworker, the rears would best be done by grafting on fender sections from a donor car.
The front could either be done the same way, or by reworking the existing fenders (not as challenging an area to modify)...you could probably contour the fenders to accept `68/`69 Type III lamps which are probably going to be somewhat easier/cheaper to find. They use the same lens so only a 'Ghia fanatic would notice - and you'd piss off the purists about the same either way.

I had a `68 'Ghia once, was unimpressed with the bulbholders of that style taillights...be sure you find some good ones before you commit to butchering the car for them.

[Piledriver]

Sell the 74 and buy a 68. Far less work, and doesn't hack up a perfectly good car.

[toeinthewater]

Thanks, guys. I guess I'll narrow my search to '68/'69.

[sideshow]

Well before you go shopping be sure to check you calendar, if it has been more than 15 years or so from when that body style was discontinued you maybe forced to use what one can get.

Its hardly a crime to backdate a feature like that, besides a couple of non hideous improvements were made during the run.

[Piledriver]

True, no crime, but a lot of expensive and/or time consuming work that would probably also reduce the vehicles resale value...
Those big `ol tailights light up nice and bright with a good set of LEDs... Helps wake up the idiots before they smack you..