The Lincoln Town Car, especially the models from the 1980s, holds a special place in automotive history. Known for their luxurious comfort, spacious interiors, and iconic American styling, these cars represent a bygone era of grand touring. If you’re the proud owner of a 1987 Lincoln Town Car, you understand the unique appeal of these vehicles. However, keeping a classic car like a ’87 Town Car in top condition requires dedication, particularly when it comes to sourcing 1987 Lincoln Town Car Parts.
While the robust mechanical components of these cars are generally durable, age takes its toll. As a dedicated resource for auto repair and maintenance at cardiagxpert.com, we understand the challenges and rewards of maintaining these classic machines. This guide will delve into the realities of finding parts for your 1987 Lincoln Town Car, helping you keep this iconic cruiser rolling smoothly.
The Reality of 1987 Lincoln Town Car Parts Availability
One of the first things any 1987 Lincoln Town Car owner will discover is that while mechanical parts are reasonably accessible, certain trim, interior, and specific model-year components can be harder to locate. This isn’t necessarily a reason to shy away from ownership, but rather a factor to be aware of and prepared for.
Rust and Body Panels
Alt text: Close-up of rust forming around trim on a vintage Lincoln Town Car, highlighting common corrosion areas.
Like many cars of its era, the 1987 Lincoln Town Car is susceptible to rust. Areas around trim pieces, rocker panels, and wheel wells are common trouble spots. The original article rightly points out the challenge with trim. These cars are adorned with stainless steel and chrome, often attached with screws and clips that create perfect pockets for water to accumulate and encourage rust.
Finding original body panels in perfect, rust-free condition can be difficult. While aftermarket panels might exist for certain areas, matching the exact gauge and contours of original panels can be a challenge. For owners seeking concourse-level restoration, sourcing genuine 1987 Lincoln Town Car parts for the body might involve searching salvage yards or specialist classic car parts vendors.
Interior Trim and Plastic Components
Alt text: Worn and cracked door panel of a 1980s Lincoln Town Car interior, illustrating common plastic trim deterioration in older vehicles.
The luxurious interiors of 1987 Town Cars were a major selling point. However, time has not been kind to some of the interior materials. Plastic components, especially those exposed to sunlight and temperature fluctuations, are prone to cracking, warping, and becoming brittle. Dashboard panels, door trim, armrests, and even smaller items like glove box doors can suffer from age-related degradation.
As the original article highlights, these “plastic” parts are often not true plastic but a type of coated foam. This makes repair challenging, and finding exact replacements can be tricky. The specific navy blue (or other color-matched) interior trim panels mentioned are a prime example of 1987 Lincoln Town Car parts that are increasingly rare. Savvy owners often scour junkyards and online marketplaces for these interior pieces when they are still in usable condition.
Rubber and Weather Seals
Alt text: Close-up of a cracked and aged rubber hose in a vintage car engine compartment, emphasizing the common issue of rubber degradation in older vehicles.
Rubber and plastic components extend beyond the interior. Engine hoses, weather seals around doors and windows, body mounts, and various grommets throughout the car are all made of materials that degrade over time. The original article correctly emphasizes the “Trojan horse” of the TV cable grommet. This small plastic part, vital for transmission function, can fail without warning, leading to significant transmission damage if not addressed.
Replacing all rubber components is often a crucial part of maintaining a 1987 Lincoln Town Car. While generic hoses and seals can sometimes be used, for a proper restoration, owners often seek out 1987 Lincoln Town Car parts specifically designed for these models to ensure correct fit and function.
Electrical and Wiring Concerns
Alt text: Deteriorated wiring harness in a classic car, showing cracked insulation and aged wires, a common electrical issue in older automobiles.
Electrical systems in older vehicles are another area that requires attention. Wiring insulation can become brittle and crack, leading to shorts and electrical malfunctions. Rheostats and relays can wear out, and even light bulbs, especially incandescent ones used extensively in 1987 Town Cars, will eventually burn out.
Tracking down electrical issues can be time-consuming. When it comes to 1987 Lincoln Town Car parts for the electrical system, sometimes generic replacements can work. However, for specific connectors, relays, or components unique to the Town Car, sourcing original or high-quality reproduction parts is often necessary to maintain the car’s electrical integrity and originality.
Finding 1987 Lincoln Town Car Parts: Tips and Strategies
Despite the challenges, keeping your 1987 Lincoln Town Car running and looking great is achievable. Here are some strategies for finding the parts you need:
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Junkyards and Salvage Yards: Don’t underestimate the value of local junkyards. While finding a pristine 1987 Town Car might be rare, you can often find donor vehicles with usable parts, especially interior trim, body panels (though rust may be a factor), and mechanical components.
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Online Marketplaces and Forums: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and specialized classic car parts websites are invaluable resources. Lincoln and Town Car enthusiast forums are also excellent places to ask about parts availability and connect with other owners who may have parts for sale or know where to find them.
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Specialty Parts Suppliers: Several businesses specialize in parts for classic American cars, including Lincolns. These suppliers may offer reproduction parts, New Old Stock (NOS) parts, or refurbished original parts. While potentially more expensive, these sources can be crucial for finding rare or specific 1987 Lincoln Town Car parts.
Maintaining Your 1987 Lincoln Town Car to Preserve Parts
Preventative maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your 1987 Lincoln Town Car and minimizing the need for parts replacement.
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Rust Prevention: Regular washing and waxing, especially in areas prone to rust, can help protect the body. Addressing any surface rust promptly can prevent it from spreading. Consider undercoating and rust inhibitors for added protection.
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Interior Care: Using interior protectants on plastic and vinyl surfaces can help prevent cracking and fading. Parking in the shade or using a car cover can reduce sun exposure. Gentle cleaning of interior trim can prevent damage and wear.
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Regular Maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule for a 1987 Town Car is crucial. Regular fluid changes, tune-ups, and inspections can help identify potential problems before they lead to major parts failures. Pay particular attention to rubber hoses and belts, replacing them proactively as needed.
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey of Classic Car Ownership
Owning a 1987 Lincoln Town Car is a rewarding experience. These cars are comfortable, stylish, and represent a unique piece of automotive history. While finding 1987 Lincoln Town Car parts can sometimes be a challenge, it’s part of the journey of owning a classic vehicle. With patience, research, and a proactive approach to maintenance, you can keep your Town Car cruising in style for years to come, enjoying the unique charm and character that only a classic American luxury car can offer. Just like the original author, Warren Price, we at cardiagxpert.com appreciate these “last true American luxury liners” and are here to support you in keeping them on the road.
