Picture shows extensive re-construction underway to the left and right cowl vent panels and collars. The circular "collar" and splash way is the area that typically rusts creating water leakage into the passenger compartment. Replacement of these panels is a time consuming task that requires the removal of the windshield, hood, front fenders and upper cowl panel. It is often the only long term way to eliminate a "cowl vent leak."

The original Mustang was designed with one inherent flaw - its air vent system.  Located just beneath the front windshield, the front cowl features grill-like openings that allow air to enter the vehicle through vents at both the left and right hand sides.  Air passes through the raised collars seen in the above photos and enters the fresh air vent on the driver's side and heater box on the passenger's side of the car.  Unfortunately these vents also allow for the entry of water, leaves and all all kinds of other foreign objects that have no business being in your Mustang. 

These air ducts sit at opposite ends of the closed compartment below the upper cowl panel. They were designed with drain holes at the extreme ends, to allow rain and wash water to pass through, exiting behind and underneath the front fenders. Unfortunately, over time and with the accumulation of debris these holes become clogged and water pools-up in this valley area, particularly around the raised collars. Given enough time, the water and debris (leaves, pine needles & blossoms) oxidizes, causing organic decomposition rusting the metal away and allowing water to flow freely into the passenger area where it will soak the carpet and eventually rust the floors and frame. Sometimes the rusted area in the cowl is concentrated around the raised collars; other times it is much more severe with holes all over the base and sides of the panel. 

Mid-County Classic Mustang works with Mustang owners to help eliminate this annoying and costly problem.  We have diagnosed and repaired many cowls over the nearly 20 years we have served the Mustang restorer.  This has allowed us to develop new techniques, improved procedures, and the utilization of better materials to improve our chances of success.  When we attempt a cowl repair all of this experience goes into the job and raises our confidence in the end result.

In most cases, we are successful in repairing the cowl and directing the water flow outside.  But in some instances we are unable to control the under dash water leaks for the long term, mainly because corrosion causes inaccessible pin holes in the metal work. 

If your car has a leaky cowl, we will give it a thorough inspection.  We will discuss repair options, costs, and long-term expectations up-front prior to starting the project.  If cowl repairs are approved, the Mustang owner must assume the risk of future cowl problems and cannot expect Mid-County Mustang to warranty the repairs to be totally leak proof forever.