Control Arms vs. shocks question
 

Ok so Im really embarrassed to make this post, and It really makes me sound like I don't know anything about cars, but I've never really paid too much to the suspension... Ok, so... Would a car have both rear control arms and rear shocks, or just one? If just one, which one is better? I was wondering, because I have been meaning to upgrade my suspension with lowering springs (about 1.8" in the front and 2' in the rear) and put some caster/camber plates in, and I ran into this problem.... Please only helpful comments, as this is very embarrassing already!

You have both. Control arms are the long metal braces that hold your axle in place. Your rear springs sit on them. The shock controls the spring compression.

If you are lowering the car, I'd suggest doing the shocks first. Aftermarket control arms aren't a big factor in lowering a car the 'right' way.

Thanks again! You are very helpful! Keep it up :)

Here are what the rear control arms look like:
http://www.uprproducts.com/mustang-c...nsion-kit.html

Here are the shocks:
http://www.uprproducts.com/strange-m...-shock-94.html

This is the left rear wheelwell in my car (years ago). The shock is vertical, behind the axle, and the lower control arm is horizontal, in front of the axle.
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r...ne022Small.jpg

If you have any more questions, I'll be happy to answer them, with pictures if possible.