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1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

Created by Jude Horstman / 10 min read
Date Created: 11/28/2022
Last Updated: 12/9/2022

Follow along as we walk you through the removal and installation process for Fox Body Mustangs lock sets. On both Hatchback, Coupe, and Convertible.

Viewing this install and using the information shared is subject to the terms set forth here - View the LMR Install Instructions Disclaimer.

How To Remove & Install 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set

If you're having issues locking and unlocking your Fox Body, this might be the right time to replace the lock sets. Today, we'll walk you through the removal and installation steps of our 1990 Fox Body Mustang.

Before removing the lock set, you'll need to remove the door panels from your Fox Body. We've set aside two different articles to remove 1981-1986 models and 1987-1993 models. Do this first before you begin.


1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install


Required Tools

  • Rachet and Socket Set
  • Rivet Gun W/ Rivets
  • Metal Cutters
  • Flat Head Screwdrivier
  • Power Drill & Drill Bit Set
  • Deadblow
  • Plastic Pry Tool
  • Sharpie or Marker
  • Filer
1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install


Driver & Passenger Door


  1. With the door panel removed, look inside the door frame and locate the arm on the lock cylinder. Gently remove the rod from the arm and let it rest out of the way.

  2. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  3. Use a pry tool and a microfiber towel to protect the paint, and work the lock cylinder retainer back and forth towards the rear of the door until it’s removed.

  4. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  5. Push the cylinder away from the door from the inside and then remove it from the car. Go ahead and clean this area.

  6. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  7. Locate the correct lock cylinder from the kit. Make a note of the arm direction on the cylinder and match the new cylinder to the old one.

  8. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  9. Install the gasket over the cylinder with the lip side facing towards the bezel. Be sure to align the grooves in the gasket with the cylinder housing.

  10. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  11. Position the new lock cylinder into place.

  12. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  13. Push in on the cylinder and install the new retainer in the factory orientation.

  14. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  15. If needed, fully seat the retainer with a small dead blow. Just be careful you don’t hit the surrounding area.

  16. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  17. Reinstall the rod into the arm and check for operation.

  18. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  19. You can reinstall the door panel and do the same for the other side.

  20. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install



Rear Trunk/Hatch Door

  1. Open either the hatch or trunk.

  2. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  3. Drill out the factory rivet with a 1/8th inch drill bit. As you can see, the rivet was missing from this car.

  4. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  5. Use the pry tool and microfiber towel again to dislodge the retainer.

  6. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  7. Carefully depress the small tab on the retainer to fully remove it. On hatchback models, use a small flathead screwdriver and pass it through the rectangular opening where the retainer was.

  8. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

    1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  9. Carefully pry against the lock cylinder to move back so you can grab it with your fingers and remove it from the car.

  10. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  11. Coupe and convertibles will be a little different. Loosen and remove the three 7/16th bolts securing the latch and the lock cylinder bracket.

  12. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  13. Maneuver the latch out of the trunk and disconnect the electrical connection if equipped.

  14. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  15. Set the latch aside. There is another retainer securing the lock cylinder in place. Brace the face of the lock cylinder with your free hand and use a pry tool to work the retainer back and forth in an upward motion to dislodge it.

  16. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

    1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  17. Remove it from the car, followed by the bracket.

  18. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

    1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  19. For hatchbacks, use the existing rod as a template and place a mark on the new extension rod.

  20. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

    1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  21. Cut it to length and then file it down.

  22. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  23. For coupes and convertibles, make a note of the bend and the length.

  24. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  25. Add a bend to the new extension rod, cut it to length, and file it down.

  26. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  27. Since we’ll be reusing the exterior retainer, go ahead and file down the two shoulders on the new lock cylinder. This will allow the existing retainer to engage properly.

  28. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  29. Test fit the lock cylinder and retainer and file down the shoulders more if needed.

  30. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  31. Install the new rod into the new cylinder.

  32. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  33. Install the gasket over the cylinder with the lip side facing towards the bezel. Be sure to align the grooves in the gasket with the cylinder housing.

  34. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  35. On hatchbacks, install the new lock cylinder and verify that the rod passes through the plastic bushing in the latch.

  36. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  37. For coupes and convertibles, install the new lock cylinder into the trunk.

  38. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  39. Reinstall the bracket in the correct orientation, followed by the interior retainer.

  40. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  41. Reposition the latch and reconnect the electrical connection if equipped.

  42. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  43. Verify the rod passes through the plastic bushing.

  44. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  45. Align the latch with the previous marks and tighten the bolts.

  46. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  47. We chose to install a new retainer gasket from our site and reuse the factory retainer.

  48. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  49. Fully seat the retainer.

  50. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  51. Install a 3/32 retainer to secure the retainer.

  52. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  53. Close the hatch or trunk and jump over to the glove box.

  54. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install



Glovebox Door

  1. If you own a 1979 to 1986 Fox Mustang, you can skip this step since the included glove box lock cylinder will only work with 87 to 93 cars.

  2. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

    1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  3. Loosen and remove the two 7mm screws securing the glove box door hinges to the dash.

  4. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  5. Open the glove box door and remove it from the car.

  6. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  7. On a workbench, loosen and remove the (6) Phillips head screws securing the door to the box.

  8. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

    1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  9. Set the door face down and remove the (2) Phillips head screws securing the latch assembly.

  10. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  11. With the latch in the “unlocked” position, rotate the latch until you can visually see the last tumbler.

  12. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  13. Push this down with a small flathead screwdriver while pulling out on the cylinder.

  14. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  15. Install the new glove box cylinder in the same orientation until it locks.

  16. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install

  17. Check for operation and reinstall the door onto the box. Then you can reinstall the assembly back into the car. After that, you’re good to go!

  18. 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install - 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Lock Set Install


Replacing the lock cylinders in a Fox Mustang is very straightforward. If you know us, then y’all know we enjoy the restoration aspect of fixing these cars, and this new lock cylinder set for our 1990 GT is another thing we can check off the list. Until next time, y'all know what to do for all things Fox Mustang; keep it right here with the real enthusiasts, LMR.com!


Sort By

1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang Exterior Door Parts

Restore the exterior of your 1979-1993 Mustang Fox Body with our Exterior Door Parts offering here at LMR!


About the Video

Fox Body Mustang Lock Set | Removal & Install (1979-1993)

Check out our YouTube channel for even more tech tips, installation videos, how-tos, and more. The best place to go for anything Mustang related!

Published on 2022-04-14
Landan with LMR shows you how to remove and install 5.0 Resto's premium quality lock set for your 1979-1993 Fox Body Mustang LX, GT, or Cobra.

This is a great solution to replace all of your locks without getting a locksmith to make new keys for your Mustang. Quick and easy installation, plus they look great! If you use this kit on a 1979-1986 Mustang, the glove box lock cylinder will not be used. It fits 1987-1993 Mustangs only.

These lock cylinder kits feature machined or black bezels and include 2 door lock cylinders, 1 trunk/hatch lock cylinder, 1 glove box lock cylinder, lock extension, 2 matching keys, 3 retaining clips, and 3 gaskets!

*Shop*

(1979-93) Mustang Door Lock Parts Category:
https://lmr.com/products/79-93-Mustang-Door-Components#5522

(79-93) Mustang Trunk Lock Retainer Seal:
https://lmr.com/item/LRS-6143328/mustang-trunk-lock-retainer-seal-79-93-d9zz-614332

Rivet Gun 47999 | Includes 3/32" - 3/16" RIVETS:
https://lmr.com/item/LRS-47999/rivet-gun-47999

(79-93) Black Bezel kit:
https://lmr.com/item/LRS-21984A-KIT/87-93-Mustang-Lock-Set-With-Black-Bezel

(79-93) Machined Bezel kit:
https://lmr.com/item/LRS-21984D-KIT/87-93-Mustang-Complete-Lock-Set-Silver-Machined

*Watch *

How To Remove Mustang Door Panel (81-86):
https://youtu.be/V0oWfHkX_8g

How To Remove Mustang Door Panel (87-93):
https://youtu.be/AOK47vzs3bs

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Use of this video is subject to the terms as set forth in our LMR Install Video Disclaimer | https://lmr.com/page/lmr-install-video-disclaimer
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About the Author

Jude is our Social Media Specialist and has written for Late Model Restoration for 4 years. Jude has a deep passion for automotive culture, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Read more...