Mustang 289, Suspension Mods

[88workcar]

On a differant post, you asked what suspension mod to get in the 12s. I felt that this deserves it's own post. Here are my recomendations, I think that many others will add in, which is what we are all here for.

1. cheap...Springs, 4cyl all the way around, with a set of air bags in the rears. 90/10s in front, stock are fine in back. sub frames, you allready have. Weld the torque boxes, Change all rear bushings and coil isolators to the polys, while changing bushings have all 4 control arms "BOXED", Skinnys up front, remove all weight from the car.

2. expensive...coil overs, k-member, A-arms, steering rack, 90/10s, rear control arms, 50/50s, drag springs for rear,if auto SSM lift bars

3. The most important part, GOOD TIRES

Ok who's next :)

[Mustang_289]

88workcar - thanx for creating this post. When you say good tires - are you talking about NITTOs or what do you recommend? What are 90/10s and 50/50s drag springs for rear. I'm also assuming an SSM lift-bar wouldn't do any good for a 5-speed?

This is a project car with my 17-year old and I'm teaching him the difference between FWHP and RWHP. He's seeing in the 5.0 magizines all these neat bolt-ons that add 5,10,20HP. We're doing the research now in how to setup the rear of our 88GT right for straight line racing. Any wisdom you guys can share is much appreciated.

[88workcar]

289, You say strait line racing. I have never owned a set of dragg radials. To me a GOOD tire is hoosier Quick Time Pros, E T Streets, Sportsman Pros, McCrearys,ect....If your goal is 12 sec. you can do it with very little engine mods. But you will need some 1.7 or better 60fts. This will be so much easier with a quality tire.

90/10s and 50/50s are the rate at which the front struts and rear shocks operate. The 90/10s up front will help the car transfer weight to the back tires. This helps the 60ft time. I ran 13.0s when I installed my 90/10s. They made my car able to now lift the front tires, and put me in the 12s. The 50/50s I do not have, but They are suppose to help also.

The SSM lift bars hurt my 60fts, This may not hold true to all 5 speeds. I am pretty sure that they work better with an auto tranny.

I sure hope that we get some more imput and support on this post.