Need advice on upgrading mach1 suspension

[jranaudo]

I would like to upgrade my 04 mach1 suspension but don't really know where to start. My concern is that a cars suspension is so dependent on the multiple components an requires tuning as well.

I only want to go as far as springs,struts,braces and subframe connectors. I don't want to convert to coil over or independent suspension.

If I buy a spring and strut package is it tuned for my particular car?

Can anyone recommend a proven setup they have? struts, springs, roll bars, etc.

Should I just find a local shop experienced in doing this on mustangs? I am in northern NJ.

Any opinions would be greatly recommended.

[HACKGT350]

first question is what do you want out of your car? straight line performance or better handling because you can go in so many different directions with your car.

[HACKGT350]

as far as springs go you have a bunch of different choices from ford racing to eibach which are all very good. one of the first things i would recommend are subframe connectors, full length of course, maximum motorsports makes probably the best ones on the market. second would be rear upper and lower control arms. anything is better than stock but i would stay away from the granatellli weight jackers because i have seen them snap in half. 3 third i would do your springs but know that when you lower the car you will need to get caster camber plates so you can put the alignment back to factory specs or else you will wear out the inner side of your tires fast.

[jranaudo]

sorry I should have said. This is not my daily driver. I use it on weekends and for a few track events during the year at places like limerock, watkins glen and pocono.

Ideally all I want to do is subframe connectors, strut braces, struts and springs. Didn't really think about control arms. Rollbars too maybe.

Also, not so much interested in drop as I am interested in performance.

[HACKGT350]

converting it to adjustable coil overs is actually very easy if you want to take the time to do that.

[jranaudo]

Originally Posted by HACKGT350

converting it to adjustable coil overs is actually very easy if you want to take the time to do that.

I was assuming it would be more. Main reason I was not planning on this was so I can keep the care as close to stock. I plan on passing this down the family.

[HACKGT350]

it is pretty simple but if you want to keep the car more stock that thats fine.

these are great rear control arms they are fully adjustable and have spherical bushings which will never stretch or wear out.
http://www.uprproducts.com/mustang-c...ackage-99.html

[NJSPEEDER]

If your concern is the resulting balance look into companies that already offer complete suspension systems. Their are a few decisions that you will need to make going in.

How compliant or firm a ride do you want(or can you live with)?
Have you done anything to reduce the weight or change the weight distribution of the car?
Will you be doing any weight reduction in the future?
And the biggest one, how much is the budget?

If your intention is to build the best handling street car possible I would suggest starting with weight management. If you are planning to drop weight or change weight distribution with aftermarket k-member, front and rear arms, battery relocation, or removing anything from the car you need to get that done first or you may end up spending money on shocks and springs multiple times.

-Tim