[Dustysdawg]

Looking for advice on front coilovers for my 1966. Does anyone use them? I don't want go to a fully modified front suspension, or Mustang II stuff.

This is all I can find that you can still use the stock upper control arms http://www.totalcontrolproducts.com/...1FX_DS_WEB.pdf

Dustysdawg

[andrewmp6]

Those are a joke they don't make it handle better.Your best bet is the kind that go to the lower control arm.Are you wanting better handling or lowering it?

[Dieselman]

I wouldn't say these are a joke.......I've been considering these as well. I could be wrong, but coils that go to the lower control arm would be part of a Mustang 2 type suspension.
I've been doing a lot of research on front suspensions also. INHO, we are somewhat limited to 2 different suspension types - with upgrades or different packages offered by several companies. These are: stock style and Mustang 2 style (for lack of better descriptions).
Stock style: we can get anything from stock replacement parts to full tubular replacements with spring choices from stock, coil over, and I believe I'v even seen a strut-type that will work.
Mustang 2 style: complete replacement specifically designed for classic Mustangs, to full tubular parts. Also including stock type coil srpings, to coil-over set-ups.
Both suspension styles can be upgraded with numerous different brake and steering choices.
I have 'steered' (pun intended) away from going with a Mustang 2 type suspenion based on opinions from many on this site (and others). So, yes I'm back to a stock style front suspension.
Yeah, this is a kind of long-winded answer. But, I felt it prudent to add the above before I have given my 2 pennies on your question.
TCP looks to have a very well engineered products. Their coil-over set-up included. I don't have any direct knowledge to answer your question, save that I will probably be going with these and better than stock replacement parts for the rest of the front suspension. IMHO, the adjustability of this system, along with improved ULC, LCA, and Adj. strut-rods will allow for more accurate alignment, and better suspension geometry throughout the entire wheel movement range. Keep in mind that adding sub-frame connectors, a one-piece export brace, and a monte-carlo bar will add stability of the front 'clip' to aid in better handling.
Does this help? Hope so, I think I rambled a bit though.
Good luck with your decision.
g

[Dustysdawg]

Thanks Guys,

There are a few reasons that I am considering the coilovers.
1. Adjustability
2. To lower the car another inch. I already have the relocated upper arms.
3. Looks. And to match the rear coilovers.

The car handles good anyway, with a big sway bar, export brace and monte carlo bar. The adjustable shock should make it easier to tune.

The main questions I really have are do the coilovers make it handle worse? Has anyone had any specific problems with front coilovers?

DD

[andrewmp6]

ronmorrisperformance.com has the same kinda short coil overs like that too.The problem is just that they are short and connect to the upper control arm like the shock and spring do now.To get it to handle better you need the kinda like most sell that go to the lower control arm gives you more movement.The more the movement the better ride even on hard cornering.Give this a read DazeCars, Suspension 101

[Dieselman]

Agreed, much better suspension with the spring and shock going to the LCA.....
Trhough my research, I have yet to locate a spring set-uip that mounts to the LCA - except a Mustang 2 setup. If anyone knows of one, pass it along please.

[Dieselman]

TCP offers a coil-over set-up where the spring mounts to the LCA. Reason i forgot is the cost or at leat I hope that's why I forgot about it

[Dustysdawg]

Ron Morris Performance has one too. Ron Morris Performance: Suspension Parts
Also, the article from andrewmp6 was pretty comprehensive. Worth the read.
DD

[andrewmp6]

Here is a nice list to look at Conversion of old mustangs with modern components

[Dieselman]

The thing about all of those systems is the total cost.......I'm not sure if spending $3k on front suspension is worth the extra cost. However, saying that, I will be replacing every part of the front suspension anyway, so maybe the cost difference will not be that bad.

I was going to post a link to a different Mustang website that has a good thread comparing Mustang 2 type suspensions and upgrading stock suspensions.......but, I'm not sure of the forum rules here posting links.

The gist of the above is that a Mustang 2 suspension that is properly installed is a great upgrade........IF you need the extra room for a big block, custom headers, etc. However, upgrading the stock suspension will give you a greatly improved ride. Especially if you add a one piece export brace and monte carlo bar. Unfortunately, I could not locate anything on upgrading stock spring to coil-overs in the stock location. I will continue my search.......