Has anybody converted a std coupe to an RS? I'm sure it's been done, but how difficult is it? After pricing parts at Rick's, I think I can buy most everything for less than $1500 (if money weren't an issue)

Altough mine is an original RS (a '67), I know the conversion requires some work, but is relatively simple. Probably the most difficult part is the headlamp brackets (they are not the same on Std). You either change the fenders or buy weld-on brackets. I think the conversion will take a little more $$$. Remember you have to get a new lower valance for the park lights or make holes on your existing, as well as holes for the back-up lamps, new Stop light bezels and lenses, a new gas cap (yes, it's different), new window ledge moldings on the '68, etc.

I did a partial conversion to mine since I like the hidden headlamps but really don't have any use for all the other chrome!

I basically converted just the front end over to the hidden headlight grille. I used RS fenders and valance panel, and installed the headlight doors, park lamps and grille. I ignored the door and wheelhouse chrome, as well as the gas cap. I also saw no reason to cut up my brand new tail panel when I had a perfectly good set of reverse lamps in my std. coupe tail lights!!

You can definitely do this conversion for under $1500 if you do it yourself. Be warned, it is not as easy as throwing the parts at the car!! You have to run vacuum lines all over and replace the headlight switch and front wiring harness. You also have to punch large holes in the front fender cans to allow for the bellcranks on the headlight doors.

If you want to detail the car down to the gnats a$$ and add every piece of chrome and emblem, I'd guess you'll be coming in at around $3000 for the mod. plus the cost of body work to move parts around and pain things.

Paul D.

I'm doing it... I guess I went the "easy" route though, and am replacing quite a lot of the sheet metal & components (in the front) on the car. Also replacing the tailpan (adding in the cutout for the reverse lights). I'm not done yet though, so can't completely comment on ease.