Hi, I'm new to the forum and a pround new owner of a 1968 Thunderbird. I am trying to undo some of the injustices done to her by a previous owner (unknown) but need some assistance. It looks like the previous own by passed some systems, removed parts from the engine, and rewired/removed some of the vacuum system in order to gain HP. I have looked all over the internet and even purchased the 1968 TBird supplemental manual and the 1965-1972 Ford Car Master Parts Catalog. Main problem so far is I have been unable to find a good complete engine blow out diagram and a good complete vacuum diagram. Anyone know where I can find them or atleast some good pictures of what the engine is supposed to look like? That will atleast give me a place to start.
I will save all of you from the pain of the explanations of some of the "fixes" the previous ower did. I just want to get her back to her old self with some modest upgrades, not looking to race her. Right now she purrs at idle, but apply gas any faster than a slow, steady increase and she sputters and misfires. She's got a solid, rust free body, but she needs a little TLC under the hood.
Any help would be greatly appreciated. I am not a professional mechanic, but I'm not afraid to get my hands dirty and I know my limits.

Just GOOGLE "1968 thunderbird vacuum diagram" and you will find what you want.

Jason,

I just purchased an electical diagram for mine on ebay. $15. Mechanics can usually get them pretty easy too. Mine did. Even nice enough to give me a copy.
As for pictures, my advice. Snoope the internet in for sale sections, shw off sections and watch fro good engine pictures of cars that haven't been "molested". Yuo will get plenty of leads on how your engine compartment was meant to look there. Vacuum bypass on mine only on distributor as it diesels like hell if it is attached. Even on 94octane. Just easier to by passs it. BTW. mine does the same. Can't jump the gas, have to ease into it then give it to get going. Not common. More likely just to drive it easy. Remember this is a 40+ car. Age related stress is not much different for cars than people. Have fun.