First Mustang (1965

66fastback · 12-25-2000, 10:57 AM

Let me start off by welcoming you to the board and the hobby. You are about to embark on a grand adventure, and we are here to help you.

For us to help you better we need to know if you have a V8 car or a 6 cylinder car. I will work from the assumption that it is a V8 car.

1. Although there are a LOT of choices on how to build a suspension for these cars, being new to the hobby, you are better off either rebuilding to stock specs, or buying a kit from a reputable vendor. Some pieces that you should look for when upgrading the suspension are....Monte Carlo bar, 1" front sway bar, front springs with no more than a 500# rating (stock replacements will be fine), stock rear springs, KYB gas shocks (she might prefer the GR2 version over the high pressure version--softer ride).

Although many changes can be made like lowering the upper control arms, you might want to stay away from them for now, they can always be done later if you feel the need for more handling. Another nice easy improvement is the addition of an Export brace. A rear sway bar would be optional also.

2. The simplest and easiest way to improve the brakes would be to give Stainless Steel Brakes a call. They will be able to help you out. They even have a 4 lug kit now in case you have a 6 cylinder car.

3. Vintage Air.

4. Someone else can help you more here. I have a highly modified suspension, so my tire clearance is different than yours will be. I wouldn't go any bigger than 15" wheels. Try something like 215/60R15.

5. Power steering can be added without too much difficulty. Your best bet is to find a wrecked car and get all the little pieces associated with PS--pump, brackets, slave cylinder, control valve, drag link(different part on ps and non-ps cars), etc. You should consider either buying new slave cylinder and control valve or rebuilding junk yard pieces. You really should consider a new/rebuilt steering box....these boxes have a lot of play in them after 35+ years and untold miles(with dried up grease).

6. Rear seat belts....hmmmm. The belts themselves will be easy to find, but I am not sure if your car will even have a place to bolt them down. You might have to have the rear pan drilled and the nut plates welded in.

I hope I didn't bore you to death, I have the flu, so I can't go out and work on my car.

------------------
66 GT Fastback 5.0, 5-speed, cable clutch, JBA's, 3.40 gears, EFI coming soon?

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12-25-2000, 10:57 AM	#2
66fastback Registered Member Join Date: Mar 1999 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 208	Let me start off by welcoming you to the board and the hobby. You are about to embark on a grand adventure, and we are here to help you. For us to help you better we need to know if you have a V8 car or a 6 cylinder car. I will work from the assumption that it is a V8 car. 1. Although there are a LOT of choices on how to build a suspension for these cars, being new to the hobby, you are better off either rebuilding to stock specs, or buying a kit from a reputable vendor. Some pieces that you should look for when upgrading the suspension are....Monte Carlo bar, 1" front sway bar, front springs with no more than a 500# rating (stock replacements will be fine), stock rear springs, KYB gas shocks (she might prefer the GR2 version over the high pressure version--softer ride). Although many changes can be made like lowering the upper control arms, you might want to stay away from them for now, they can always be done later if you feel the need for more handling. Another nice easy improvement is the addition of an Export brace. A rear sway bar would be optional also. 2. The simplest and easiest way to improve the brakes would be to give Stainless Steel Brakes a call. They will be able to help you out. They even have a 4 lug kit now in case you have a 6 cylinder car. 3. Vintage Air. 4. Someone else can help you more here. I have a highly modified suspension, so my tire clearance is different than yours will be. I wouldn't go any bigger than 15" wheels. Try something like 215/60R15. 5. Power steering can be added without too much difficulty. Your best bet is to find a wrecked car and get all the little pieces associated with PS--pump, brackets, slave cylinder, control valve, drag link(different part on ps and non-ps cars), etc. You should consider either buying new slave cylinder and control valve or rebuilding junk yard pieces. You really should consider a new/rebuilt steering box....these boxes have a lot of play in them after 35+ years and untold miles(with dried up grease). 6. Rear seat belts....hmmmm. The belts themselves will be easy to find, but I am not sure if your car will even have a place to bolt them down. You might have to have the rear pan drilled and the nut plates welded in. I hope I didn't bore you to death, I have the flu, so I can't go out and work on my car. ------------------ 66 GT Fastback 5.0, 5-speed, cable clutch, JBA's, 3.40 gears, EFI coming soon?