1969 mustang coupe complete suspension/drivetrain swap?

bigred92 said:

hi, first time poster here.
i recently picked up a 69 mustang coupe with a inline 6 and automatic transmission. i plan on putting a fuel injected modern motor in it but would really like to upgrade the suspension as well. i know you can buy kits online so please dont try and sell me on that.

My question is, if i was to buy a mustang around 2002 model could i swap the front suspension, steering, and rear end over? i know anything is possible with enough work and money but how realistic of an idea is this? anyone done it before?

Click to expand...

hi;

the 2002 rear assy is around 3 1/.2" wider than a std 69 axle. you can install earlier 8.8 axles and brakes that will make it 3" narrower or run rims that have 1 1/2" more backspace than stock.

i have seen a 4 link set up on a 66 but it is a bit of work.

you can also install an after market rear axle kit and watts link set up if you want.


i have no idea why you want the front suspension off a 2002. you can buy total control arms or go struts if you want.

i'm guessing you have access to a 2002.

The front suspension of an SN-95 Mustang will take lots of fabrication to install. You'd need to swap in the SN-95 frame rails and K-member, then modify the shock towers substantially. And honestly, it wouldn't handle much better. The steering would be more precise, but that's about it. You're better off getting one of the aftermarket kits. A Griggs kit would handle much better, and would be cheaper. But even before that, you've got any number of Mustang II kits, Global West, Total Control Products, etc. Now, the rear axle you could possibly use. I know that a Fox axle or a '94-98 rear end with Fox-length axles will fit, as long as you use modern Mustang wheels. But you'll need to weld on spring perches or get a 4-link or torque arm system. Also, even if you could swap in the SN-95 4-link system, it sucks. It's just not a good suspension system. There's much better options out there that are meant to fit classic Mustangs.

You've not said which engine is in the vehicle. The T-code (200c.i.) vehicles were equipped with the 4-lug, 9-inch brakes and 7.5 inch rear axle; barely adequate for the drivetrain. The L-code 250c.i., however, was equipped with the same drivetrain as the sb V-8, making it a much better candidate for your F.I. 5.0 swap. If you are already in possession of the 2002 donor car, strip and save every bolt and connector you can find! But I would suspect you will be eventually tossing or selling the front suspension. The rear axle may be usable with the aforementioned relocation of the spring perches and the substitution of Ranger or Explorer axles (5 x 4.5 bolt pattern.) One thing about the later 8.8 rear axles is the plentiful limited slip units and gear ratios available. Good Luck! BTW, if that is an L-code 250c.i., I'd like to talk further with you.