For the non tracking crowd, straight line weekend fun, 300 - 400 hp, with stock front suspension, but replaced it as new, do you wish you had gone with an updated unit?

Ever think, "Damn this front end sucks, wish I had spend the extra and just replaced the whole thing!"

 

Nope. I have a stock suspension modified to 65 Shelby specs, rides well, performs very nicely in autocross. Easy to do, and easy on the wallet.

Arning/Shelby Suspension Drop

 

Dude,...you live on this board!

Thanks

 

Don't take this as the gospel but more as a direction to research:

big and littles
caltracks
soft shocks
no stabilizer bars
6 cylinder front springs

The idea is a gradual weight transfer to the rear. Go to your local track and see what those guys recommend.

 

No regrets here. All new OEM front end parts 14 years ago and still going strong.

 

hellow all you RUSTANG HEADS i been doing a total restore on a 66 coupe And what i need to know is there any cheeper way to change my 4 bolt wheels to 5 bolt wheel i already have a 8" and a 9" rear ends just dont want to pay 1000. in front end parts think theres got to be a way please help thanks

 

1966rustang - try starting a new thread with a good description in the title like - 66 Coupe 4>5 lug what's needed? You'll get more responses. Also try the search button at the top, you'll find similar threads that may answer some of your questions so you can ask a more directed one.

For the front you will basically need to change the spindles ('65-'68 V8 drum spindles and granada are common) and then decide on brakes-drum, disc, aftermarket, etc. I take it the car was a 6cyl. originally so pretty much all the steering/suspension needs to be upgraded to V8 parts, they're beefier.
Jon

 

To the OP, upgraded original configuration works fine - lighter springs as mentioned, remove the front sway bar completely for 1/8 and 1/4mi. track runs = better wt. transfer to the rear. From what I've read drum brakes are lighter than disc and most of the classic drag cars I've seen run them.
The steering isn't going to change your speed in a straight line - R&P will be no faster than stock from my experience, after all you're not turning the wheels...
Jon