I had a 74 Mustang I had ordered from the factory and kept for 10 years. I just recently acquired a 76 coupe. I was remembering back then when the newer models came out that I saw the silver gas caps on like the 75 or 76's and on up. But when I look at pictures, I see they have the color caps the same as the exterior color. I know I wasn't seeing things. Didn't the newer models have the silver gas caps? vicki
The OEM standard caps were all painted body color. Steel caps were used on 74 through 77, and 78s had a plastic cap. There was an accessory cap offered by Ford that was plated, however, it was not the same style as the OE cap. It was more of a domed or beehive style, with a lock cylinder in the center. Aftermarket chrome caps with a black crossbar were and are very common on these cars.
I guess I should add "based on my experience and research". Every 78 I have had in my posession had the plastic painted cap. All were original paint cars, except 1. My '77 had the steel cap when I bought it in 80. Many of the 74-77s I've been through had the steel painted cap. Several had various forms of aftermarket caps. One had the OE accessory beehive cap. All photos/brochures/original cars I've seen have had painted caps. But, like anything II, Ford liked to throw whatever they had at 'em, and I could be wrong. Do you have additional insight on this? Never too old to learn, I figure.
I am just asking because I have never had a II with a painted metal cap, they were always plastic, regardless of the year. Of course that means nothing other than what I've seen; never had a reason to question it till now. Brian, two things... 1- did you see my new acquisition? I posted about it last week here. And 2 - can you check the list of parts I need in the parts section, and let me know if you have anything? Thanks!
