SAAC Forum

The Cars => 1968 Shelby GT350/500/500KR => Topic started by: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 06:52:52 PM

Title: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 06:52:52 PM
What would a spare tire size typically have been in a 500Kr. Also I am having problems with the sequential turn signals, they are all new. Do just the inner and middle lights blink? Or do all three lights supposed to blink both left and right side. Thats my questions of the hour. Thanks in advance!
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Bob Gaines on August 02, 2025, 07:04:11 PM
Quote from: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 06:52:52 PMWhat would a spare tire size typically have been in a 500Kr. Also I am having problems with the sequential turn signals, they are all new. Do just the inner and middle lights blink? Or do all three lights supposed to blink both left and right side. Thats my questions of the hour. Thanks in advance!
The 68 KR tire would typically be the E70 15 wide tread blackwall   https://kelseytire.com/product/goodyear-e70-15-custom-wide-tread/
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 02, 2025, 07:06:54 PM
Yes, all three lights should blink
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 07:17:15 PM
Thaks BOB-PETE for the info. I am at a loss why the outer most lights dont blink on both left and right sides.The wiring, Dynamite sticks and just about everything else is new back there. Any suggestions on where to look? :-[
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 02, 2025, 07:29:26 PM
Make sure its wired correctly, you have awesome grounds, the correct flasher
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 07:33:22 PM
Everything looks good, fits good, just doesnt work correct. I will look into possible ground problem. :-[
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: FL SAAC on August 02, 2025, 09:06:29 PM
Quote from: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 06:52:52 PMWhat would a spare tire size typically have been in a 500Kr. Also I am having problems with the sequential turn signals, they are all new. Do just the inner and middle lights blink? Or do all three lights supposed to blink both left and right side. Thats my questions of the hour. Thanks in advance!

Cougar sequential turn signals

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://classiccougarcommunity.com/articles/demystifying-the-1967-cougar-sequential-turn-signals/1967_Cougar_Sequential_Turn_Signal_System_Troubleshooting_Guide.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjU_7rite2OAxVyQzABHb1dMZ0QFnoECB4QAQ&usg=AOvVaw0Jjqa83FwbuOWbh9mTGgB_
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: highland green on August 02, 2025, 09:10:04 PM
make sure you have the proper flasher
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Bob Gaines on August 02, 2025, 09:37:53 PM

[/quote]
Quote from: FL SAAC on August 02, 2025, 09:06:29 PM
Quote from: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 06:52:52 PMWhat would a spare tire size typically have been in a 500Kr. Also I am having problems with the sequential turn signals, they are all new. Do just the inner and middle lights blink? Or do all three lights supposed to blink both left and right side. Thats my questions of the hour. Thanks in advance!

Cougar sequential turn signals

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://classiccougarcommunity.com/articles/demystifying-the-1967-cougar-sequential-turn-signals/1967_Cougar_Sequential_Turn_Signal_System_Troubleshooting_Guide.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjU_7rite2OAxVyQzABHb1dMZ0QFnoECB4QAQ&usg=AOvVaw0Jjqa83FwbuOWbh9mTGgB_

So as not to confuse the OP, 67 Cougar sequential system talked about in the link is completely different then 68 Shelby sequential.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: FL SAAC on August 02, 2025, 10:38:21 PM
Great point made

Go to the West Coast Cougar site or better yet give them a call and all your inquires should be resolved

Best of luck


Quote from: FL SAAC on August 02, 2025, 09:06:29 PM
Quote from: 427heaven on August 02, 2025, 06:52:52 PMWhat would a spare tire size typically have been in a 500Kr. Also I am having problems with the sequential turn signals, they are all new. Do just the inner and middle lights blink? Or do all three lights supposed to blink both left and right side. Thats my questions of the hour. Thanks in advance!

Cougar sequential turn signals

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://classiccougarcommunity.com/articles/demystifying-the-1967-cougar-sequential-turn-signals/1967_Cougar_Sequential_Turn_Signal_System_Troubleshooting_Guide.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjU_7rite2OAxVyQzABHb1dMZ0QFnoECB4QAQ&usg=AOvVaw0Jjqa83FwbuOWbh9mTGgB_

So as not to confuse the OP, 67 Cougar sequential system talked about in the link is completely different then 68 Shelby sequential.
[/quote]
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 03, 2025, 06:31:47 AM
I will bet a dollar the flasher is either electronic or incorrect.

Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 03, 2025, 11:22:24 AM
I think it is an electronic flasher. Came from Brandas as a kit!
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 03, 2025, 11:24:42 AM
I regularly read VMF. 90% of the questions can be summed up as...

"I have a bunch of modified or reproduction crap on my car and cant figure out why it doesn't work?"
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 03, 2025, 11:27:33 AM
 :)  ;)  :D  ;D ..... :-[
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Royce Peterson on August 03, 2025, 07:07:20 PM
Quote from: Coralsnake on August 03, 2025, 11:24:42 AMI regularly read VMF. 90% of the questions can be summed up as...

"I have a bunch of modified or reproduction crap on my car and cant figure out why it doesn't work?"

LOL yup.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: roddster on August 03, 2025, 08:42:06 PM
Amen on that comment!
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: highland green on August 04, 2025, 03:36:27 PM
the flasher is a Wagner, but not sure of the number. Pete will know it by heart. :D
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: TedS on August 04, 2025, 03:51:49 PM
Wagner 323 per this thread
https://www.saac.com/forum/index.php?topic=1660.0
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 04, 2025, 04:13:53 PM
Hopefully without LEDs
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: JWH on August 04, 2025, 04:42:45 PM
Here is something that solved this problem for me on my '68. I tried different flashers and still had the problem. I then read that each light bulb socket must have clean contact with the tail light housing for a good ground. I removed the light bulbs and then pulled each socket from the housing. Using a Scotch Brite pad I cleaned the area where the bulb socket contacts the housing for all six. Make sure there is solid, clean contact for each bulb socket.
     As I recall, there also is a ground wire that comes out of the tail light wire loom, and grounds to the tail light panel. Make sure that this connection is clean and tight also.
     After these steps, all three lights lit up equally bright.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 04, 2025, 06:00:21 PM
If I had a nickel for everyone that said "my grounds are fine" I would be a millionaire
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Bob Gaines on August 04, 2025, 06:13:56 PM
Quote from: Coralsnake on August 04, 2025, 06:00:21 PMIf I had a nickel for everyone that said "my grounds are fine" I would be a millionaire
+100
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 04, 2025, 06:19:32 PM
As stated the original housings are zinc castings. The bulb sockets have to ground to them. Even then, they are mounted into the fiberglas valence.

In other words, good grounds are not inherent to the original design
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: FL SAAC on August 04, 2025, 06:44:34 PM
1 - You make sure ALL grounds are grounded.
     Clean and assure all paint is removed   
     from all contact areas.

2 - I would still call west coast cougars 
    get their advice as they have years of
    experience

3 - Take it to a good electrician if all
    fails

Best of luck
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 68blk500c on August 04, 2025, 07:40:47 PM
Quote from: JWH on August 04, 2025, 04:42:45 PMAs I recall, there also is a ground wire that comes out of the tail light wire loom, and grounds to the tail light panel. Make sure that this connection is clean and tight also.

That ground wire attaches to the zinc reflector housing (from the factory).  It is a common source of problems.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 06, 2025, 11:46:12 AM
So an update on the taillights. The problem persists with both standard bulbs and LED bulbs. Cleaned/burnished ground posts on bulb housings and that didnt seem to work. The inner and middle lights are clear and bright so no apparent voltage drop.....
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: TA Coupe on August 06, 2025, 12:12:16 PM
Did you actually use a voltage meter to see if any power is going to them?

      Roy
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: highland green on August 08, 2025, 03:55:00 PM
It has been a long time since I worked on my Shelby tail lights. I used the rear harness and instructions from Pete. They were excellent. I do remember, changing the headlight switch and the dimmer switch for new ones. cant remember if that had an effect on the tail lights. Im sorry I cant be of more help. My advise is to clean all contacts and put back to stock. Get it working ,then look at improvements ,if still wanted. The correct flashers are a must.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 09, 2025, 03:24:20 PM
Update on my blinker problem... After checking out my new system it appeared that I had a standard Mustang flasher and needed the DO-- whatever flasher. I got the ONLY flasher that apparently works with this set up, (WHO KNEW) Not me! Also I found behind the instrument cluster a main ground connection and it was a bit dirty and a bit loose... Cleaned tightened and BAM all was good!!! Thanks to ALL for the help. Much appreciated. :)
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 09, 2025, 04:27:58 PM
Ah 🤷🏻
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: JWH on August 10, 2025, 09:04:44 AM
Would you reply with the brand and part number of the flasher that works and where you bought it for future reference?
     Great to hear you have the issue resolved. When the sequentials work and are bright, they are a really cool feature on these cars.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 10, 2025, 09:44:53 AM
Sure the flasher came from Branda, it is a 68-70 Shelby electronic turn signal flasher. 40.00. The key here is when working on your car or replacing parts dont piece meal things. Dont purchase bits and pieces... All or Nothing will eliminate your frustration. They sell many of these kits and they work very well. Looks great and works even better. :)
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 10, 2025, 09:48:30 AM
Glad its working.

You can use an oem flasher or a #323. These are very common. The Wagner 323 is about $25. I just bought four of them for $20
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 10, 2025, 10:30:44 AM
What people need to know is that the cougar turn signal parts are completely different animal then a Shelby sequential taillight assembly. It took a few calls before I got to the correct guy for ALL technical questions regarding these lights. Vic Yarborough is the guy for all things sequential taillights. He manufactures these assemblies for all of the suppliers. COUGARS UNLIMITED VERY helpful!!! Part number is DOWY-13350-AR5. Hope this helps others that may experience tail light problems-
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 10, 2025, 10:40:56 AM
I partnered with Vic about twenty five years ago and together we created the first reproductions with a correct plug, in a cardboard tube.

You are correct the Cougar and Thunderbird is completely different.

Technically the "DO" flasher is not oem correct (its a 1970 part) however it will work because it is specifically made for a six bulb system. So is the 323. Thats why other flashers do not work.

If nothing else, maybe this thread will point out who not to listen to

The answers were right here in this thread.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: shelbydoug on August 10, 2025, 11:30:05 AM
On MY '68 GT350, I went high tech and bought the replacement system from East Texas Mustang. Now it is very easy to install and the lights are bright and very visable which is a big improvement.

There is one difference or some might say an issue. That being, when new the '68 Shelby would fast flash the brake lights. The replacement system does not.

When I talked to them about why, they said that after talking to other '68Shelby owners, they decided that was a FACTORY mistake and took it out of the system.

They disregarded my opinion as me being obviously a very disturbed and unknowledgeable owner. From NY, which to them was an obvious explanation. Probably the dense air pollution being the cause of my disfunction? You don't want to know what I think about them but maybe that is kind of obvious?

So, if that replacement system was designed and built by Mr. Vic or Mr. Pete, caution should prevail because the things DID quick flash the brake lights.

IF the determining factor is that you want the trunk harness to have the "dynamite stick" them you can add one to the harness yourself as a look a like prop and since it is tucked into the corners of the trunk UNDER the cardboard covers, you will secretly be satisfied and who cares about what other stupid people will think? Sounds like a plan to me?

The previous statement was that ALL of the current aftermarket 68 Shelby systems are the same and built by the same people, or something to that effect?

So, just sayin'. ::)
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: Coralsnake on August 10, 2025, 01:35:16 PM
Quick question if you didnt know who designed them, how could you have talked to them?

Oh, wait I know. 

You maybe thinking of the previous dynamite sticks sold by Branda. They were in an aluminum tube, the wiring was not correct and the wiring had no plugs.

The sticks made by Cougars Unlimited are in the correct paper tubes and have the correct wiring.

To the best of my knowledge the electronics are the same as the originals. There were no changes made because of comments made by Shelby owners. There were no corrections to factory specifications.

I have installed dozens of these without any issues or observations that they were not functioning like the originals.


Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: shelbydoug on August 10, 2025, 10:15:03 PM
Quote from: Coralsnake on August 10, 2025, 01:35:16 PMQuick question if you didnt know who designed them, how could you have talked to them?

Oh, wait I know. 

You maybe thinking of the previous dynamite sticks sold by Branda. They were in an aluminum tube, the wiring was not correct and the wiring had no plugs.

The sticks made by Cougars Unlimited are in the correct paper tubes and have the correct wiring.

To the best of my knowledge the electronics are the same as the originals. There were no changes made because of comments made by Shelby owners. There were no corrections to factory specifications.

I have installed dozens of these without any issues or observations that they were not functioning like the originals.




When I spoke to the owner of East Texas Mustang, he said that he had worked on the design and details along with the builder.

Their names meant nothing to me. It was just your comment about they were all the same and you had worked along with the builder on the details that made me recall that.

More likely then not they are not the same people and it was just an inaccurate casual remark.

This is an electronic device that replaces the need for the dynamite sticks and plugs in under the dash. Dynamite sticks are not necessary but can be kept in place unconnected for appearances.

It works very well except for the lack of the quick flash brake lights that the original system provided. That's really the only drawback.
Title: Re: Couple of questions
Post by: 427heaven on August 11, 2025, 10:29:29 AM
More turn signal updates... I wanted to thank all that came to my taillight rescue with thoughts and ideas. Im not sure why when I ask a simple question about something that it takes a long detour, then circles back to the situation at hand. Doug- we can just call some of that your NEW YORKER attitude ;) For me it must be My SO CAL chip on my shoulder or just large shoulders... Maybe a combo of both! Who designed these parts and when... was not a concern but rather how to fix the problem. Pete- Thanks for your NOS parts infatuation, we need those guys! My parts appear to look and work very nice, and all the Dynamite sticks, plugs, wiring etc fits exceptionally well. How close to original I/WE will never know. Some find exceptional deals like a 20.00 flasher but for me I was experiencing 5000.00 dollars worth of frustration, so a 40.00 fix was well worth it!!! Thanks again-