Welcome to the site Racer X. Sounds great. Can't wait to see the pic's.
Thats correct, 79-86 years are all the same shape either in steel or aluminum. (front years the same) and (rear years the same). They are more common to see as heavy steel units. The lighter aluminum ones were usually used on the 4 cylinder cars and some 6 cyls. (but not all cars) as I have had.
Not sure about V/8s. Your right about them being used randomly, it was definately hit and miss.
I have had many original condition 79 pace cars over time and only found two with them between them all. My new 82 G.T. was steel on both front and rear. (Ford probably figured the G.T. would be more suspect to front end hits with the G.T. power at the time. Or maybe they were just more expensive to make than steel as aluminum was still high.
However I would have thought Ford would have used them more often for weight and fuel savings on all Fox Mustangs.
I.M.H.O. I don't think the fiberglass rebar is as dangerous as it sounds. I did have the Maier piece new on the 82 G.T. and held the front cover correctly. No, Never wrecked it, but actually when these cars are hit in front, they usually tear the 3 bolt mounting eyelets on each side from the bumper shocks anyway, (Even on the steel cars).
I know what you mean about having the steel or aluminum rebar still there in a wreck, and possibly the fiberglass desolving into pieces. But the bumper shocks and frame rails will be the strongest part of the front before hitting the engine anyway. At that point I am not sure if it is an issue. But thats just me talking. I always live on the razors edge!
Sounds great Racer X Can't wait to see the pic's.
P.S........... I Still need the aluminum front reinforcement if someone has a spare to sell. or fiberglass.
80 Cobra.....