Car enthusiasts searching for the right shop to help with their beloved project car typically go through a strict vetting process—or at least they should. A restoration business with a proven track record always ranks high on its list of priorities. Friendly, approachable shop owners and fabricators also make the experience more enjoyable, and owners who share a passion for the vehicle restoration process usually have a well-earned waiting list of clients. If you’re fortunate, you might find a local shop that meets at least one of these desirable qualities. If you find a place that embodies all three, consider yourself very lucky.

One day, Al Buckingham, a fan of Ford Falcon Sprints, came into the shop and asked Lyon for help finding a solid candidate to turn into a real showstopper. “Al had several Falcons back when he was much younger, so they are pretty nostalgic for him,” Lyon reports. “After several builds, he decided to go with a 1963 model we found at a small ‘pot lot’–type car lot. We checked out a few, but that was the one we decided to buy. We had it shipped to us and were excited about the possibilities—until it arrived at our shop, that is.”

Lyon and the FLSS crew quickly realized that the condition of the Falcon wasn’t as good as it appeared online. It took some digging, but once they started peeling back the car’s layers, it became clear the project would require more effort than anticipated. “There were several hidden issues that needed immediate addressing, which were disappointing at first,” Lyon admits. “But I believe that every challenge is an opportunity, and this just meant that we had a chance to transform this car into something cool, truly. It’s all just part of the restoration journey.”  

Even with all the distractions related to the Falcon’s unexpected condition, the first discussion the FLSS guys had focused on what type of powerplant to install. “Of course, we all had a supercharged Coyote engine in mind,” Lyon says. “We didn’t need much convincing to put that idea into motion, but even as awesome as it sounds, fitting that particular engine would be the biggest challenge of this build. We wanted to pair the 5.0 with a TREMEC TKX five-speed transmission, which just seemed like a great combo once everything was properly in place.” The job wouldn’t be easy, as the engine swap would require careful measurements and a lot of fabrication, but it would be a true test of Lyon’s engineering skills, which he always looks forward to.

While the team at FLSS was determining the optimal fitment for the Falcon’s new engine and transmission, they contacted Total Cost Involved. They ordered its front Mustang II–style IFS system, along with the rear four-link setup. The package also included Ridetech coilovers and shocks to ensure a smooth, highly responsive ride. Fully customized and reinforced front and rear subframes and framerails were installed to replicate a new full-frame chassis. Wilwood braking components were added to help slow the car’s roll, which is significant given the Coyote’s estimated 785 hp. A set of 18×8 Detroit Steel Ambassador wheels was chosen to give the Falcon a classic, street-ready look, while Nitto NT05 performance tires—225/40R18 in front and 245/40R18 in the rear—were selected to boost both style and performance.

Once the chassis work was finished, the crew properly installed the 5.0 engine and began adding accessories, including custom long-tube headers built in-house and a full 3-inch oval-pipe exhaust system featuring four Black Widow mufflers to control the engine’s rumble. Naturally, the Coyote received an Edelbrock TVS 2650 blower, along with a 4-inch aluminum Spectre air intake kit, a K&N air filter, and a Northern Radiator with a brushless electric fan to keep the Coyote running at optimal temperatures.

Next, the FLSS crew began working on the Falcon’s exterior by modifying the stock Sprint hood, moving the center bulge section forward by 3/4 inch and raising the center by 1/2 inch. To contrast the stark white paint and give the car a sporty look, the hood (as well as the trunk) received carbon-fiber detailing and red pinstriping. It’s just enough carbon to still let the Falcon’s classic character shine through. New Auto Metal Direct bumpers freshen up each end, and United Pacific LED headlights and tails further update the 1963’s appeal.

The car’s interior was the last to be fully renovated, starting with DEI Boom Mat underneath new carpeting and the upgraded stock bucket seats and rear bench, which were covered in high-end Douglass Interior Products Caledonian Scottish leather. Bidle Upholstery in Pullman, Washington, handled the stitching on the seats, as well as the front center console and matching door panels. The Falcon’s cockpit was also upgraded with Dakota Digital VHX gauges, Vintage Air A/C, and sleek paintwork to unify the look.

The reconstruction took two solid years, and the owner couldn’t be happier with the result. “One of the most memorable experiences of this build was watching the team’s reaction the first time they fired up the Coyote engine and felt the power it unleashed,” Lyon states. “It was truly unforgettable. Each build significantly contributes to my growth as a builder, but I couldn’t have completed this project without our Finish Line team: Ryan, Steve, Hayden, Brody, Jackson, Brendon, and Ray. Together, we hope to grow this business by continuing to build and realize our clients’ dreams. I wouldn’t change that for anything.”