I have started my "Chassis Stiffening" project and thought I would post some pics:

Part 1:
Shelby Parts Rear Strut Tower Brace....weight 4lbs 15oz
GREAT looking piece! I was able to mount my Halguard onto it just like I had planned without any issues!
(For those who don't know, when getting a car extinguisher don't skimp on the cheap ones.....get the clean agent type!!)

Part 2: (not yet installed)
Hotchkis X-Brace will be going on tomorrow.... It only weights 7lb 15oz.

I already have the stock Front STB.

More pics on my website here:
http://dougkoal.wix.com/stanglife#!home/mainPage

 

That rear strut tower brace is a farce a scam. It does absolutely nothing to stiffen your car except lightening your wallet. There is virtually no stress between those points so bracing it does nothing. If you want to strengthen the strut tower area close the pass through or at least X brace it but closing it is better.

 

I did something very similar with my old coupe. Fun project.





Currently fabbing an aluminum A-arm brace on my 06

 

So is anyone able to get their back seat back in after this?? Erik

 

Same thing in my car to mount my amplifiers on. If it helps chassis stiffness any, I can't tell. The S197 is a fairly stiff car from what Ford says. Yeah, you can put seat back in as long as you bolt towards the trunk area.

 

Here is with the back seat area all finished and seat folded down. Folds up and looks stock. I too put Dyna Mat over the back panel and on the rear interior deck lid.

 

Looks great 908ssp, thanks for posting that up. Doug, you put that k-brace in yet?

 

put it on today! have not driven with it yet though.....easy install!

 

Yep.
I can think of a dozen other area to improve stiffness on these cars before that spot there, even on a race car, lol.

 

Contrary to the haters.......my initial driving impressions are that these mods have mad the car "smoother" feeling. (Really the only way to describe it). Less vibrations/shifting...car feels more planted. I like 'em.