Hi Paul
"Clubs like MCA have had since about 1985 to get this right. There needs to be some sort of ongoing database of production changes, and collective knowledge available to not only the judges, but to owners."
Not sure why it's anyone organizations responsibilities, lots of individuals with knowledge and the freedom to do something (maybe never the time or dollars though with the internet the possibilities have increased a thousand fold). There is no database or information that has been collected that has only been shared with the judges to my knowledge.
"However--Like ALL hobbies, those who have the knowledge don't like sharing it with others--so that they may win at shows."
This can sometimes be the case with businesses as they have invest the dollars and time to put together what it takes to win and that is why people take their cars to those places. From my experience I would say that at least 90% fail at any sort of guarantee of producing the win on a regular basis
There is allot of dicussion (among many I know) about how to share the information we know. With all the different years, plants and changes it appears not an easy tasks. Some have taken on the task of focusing on a particular year and or model as this site is an example of. But I would remind all that as humans it always seems that we want to point out the couple of things wrong in a registry, book or site rather than offering to set it straight ... tackfully
"MCA didn't know about the padded dash changes, or the rear reflector change date in Feb., until my first book came out--and that was 1989!"
We can all agree that the production differences related to San Jose have been overlooked, erased by earlier restorations and lack of exposure. As far as MCA is concerned it’s always harder to change the direction of a big ship compared to a smaller one. Case in point we have finally changed the rules so that San Jose cars should have their front shock upper mounts painted semi-gloss black as they were (unlike the phosphate and oil of the 67-up Dearborn and NJ cars) Progress is always slower than you would want
"Some folks would change out parts "wrong", even though they were from the factory like that--yet only a few would stand their ground with the judge."
Sometimes standing ground does not work on the show ground as the owner is always seen to have something to gain in the exchange. Instead MCA is the only car club I'm aware of that allows any member (non-judges are always welcome) to attend the judges meeting and have input. be polite, have your facts and documentation and discuss the changes you think will benefit the club.
"I plan on having a long conversation with Jeff Speegle (hi Jeff!), about all the details of what is what (for the book). He's done an excellent job documenting these things for years for not only the Mustangs, but for the Shelbys, too........."
Your very kind and I guess I'm just a little stubborn at times. You still in the area? I've got time if you do.
"I don't mean to sound harsh, but this is not rocket science."
Your right ... .I think rocket science would be easier much of the time... at least most of the theories and principles are written in a book. Those there are always those guys from the other place saying their all wrong
Stopping now.... way to many words fingers and head..... tired