NeoTokyo

Welp when you build the lower try to use the lightest rods and pistons that you can find.
Also you can have the 4.2L crank counterweights cut down and reballanced to reduce weight a couple more pounds and increase revving quickness and gain a little more power.

Its a road racing modification but will work great for you.

If you go with the 351W long rods then try to find them as light as you can, your stuck with only 1 piston choice if you go with the long rod though, at least I dont know of any piston that will work other than the custom ones that SSM and others have.

Your going to have to cut weight everywhere you can from 2pc brake rotors to stripping out interior parts.

Good luck, sounds like its going to be a lot of fun.

LilRoush

Lose weight, stiff suspension and more low end power.

Clif Brohn

The thunderbird/cobra IRS is way heavier than an 8.8", let alone a 7.5" with a good lsd. Pick up a TruTrac or Auburn LSD and keep the factory rear end

Shaunmac9128

I didn't know you could do that to the crank, seems smart. No need for the 4.2 if the 3.8 rotating assembly is lighter. Lots of weight reduction too, good point.

Leshrac

Sweet sounds like some good suggestions. How much torque you think the 7.5 can handle before it breaks?

Shaunmac9128

It's been broken at stock power, others have had tlocks hold up with more power road racing. I don't know, I feel like drifting would wear out the clutch packs pretty fast, truetrac is probably the best option which can handle well I don't even know, never heard of anyone breaking one. I'm going to assume over 300ft/lbs.

Leshrac

almost $500 for a truetrac...whew at that price wouldnt it be smarter just to upgrade to 31spline 8.8...especially since im going FI someday?

Shaunmac9128

Well the truetrac is stronger than a stock 8.8. And won't wear out like the clutch packs in the stock 8.8 tlock because it is mechanical. If you plan on pushing a ton of power a built 8.8 with a stronger lsd is best but I don't know if drifting puts as much stress on the rear as drag racing.

NeoTokyo

Cliff, yes the IRS is a lot heavier (75-80lbs more) BUT it has 125lbs less unsprung weight than the 8.8" not to mention that it will help the V6 Mustang reach a very close 50/50 weight dist which would be great for drifting. The 99-01' Cobra have a 55/45 weight dist meaning our lighter front end sixxers are closer to the 50/50 I mentioned.

Also with the setup I suggested you will be able to drop some good weight.

A Fully built IRS is the best choice but it is also the most expensive.



:P

Shaunmac9128

Makes me want to get one, but they're soo expensive.