1967 mustang suspension kit

3 min read 23-01-2025

The 1967 Ford Mustang: a classic muscle car renowned for its style and power. But its original suspension, designed for the comfort of its era, might leave modern drivers wanting more in terms of handling and ride quality. Upgrading your '67 Mustang's suspension is a popular modification, significantly improving its performance and driving experience. This guide explores the world of 1967 Mustang suspension kits, helping you choose the right one for your needs and budget.

Understanding Your Suspension Needs

Before diving into specific kits, consider your priorities:

Street Performance: Do you primarily drive on paved roads, seeking improved handling and a more controlled ride? A street performance kit focuses on balance and comfort, offering a noticeable upgrade without sacrificing daily drivability.
Autocross/Track Use: Will your Mustang see track days or autocross events? These demanding environments necessitate a suspension system prioritizing responsiveness, stability, and precise handling, often at the cost of ride comfort on the street.
Restoration/Original Equipment: Are you aiming for a concours-quality restoration, prioritizing originality and maintaining the car's factory feel? Some kits replicate original components with modern materials for improved durability.
Budget: Suspension kit prices vary significantly, from budget-friendly options to high-end, fully adjustable systems. Determine your budget beforehand to narrow your search effectively.

Types of 1967 Mustang Suspension Kits

The market offers various kits catering to different needs and preferences:

1. Lowering Kits:

These kits reduce the vehicle's ride height, improving its center of gravity for better handling. However, lowering can impact ride quality and ground clearance. Carefully consider the drop amount—excessive lowering can negatively affect suspension travel and component lifespan.

2. Performance Handling Kits:

These kits typically include upgraded shocks, springs, and possibly sway bars. They offer a significant improvement in handling and responsiveness compared to the original suspension, providing a better balance between performance and comfort. Look for kits with adjustable components to fine-tune the setup to your driving style and preferences.

3. Coil-Over Conversion Kits:

These are advanced systems replacing leaf springs (in the rear) and/or traditional shocks and springs with coil-over units. Coil-overs offer precise adjustability for ride height, damping (shock stiffness), and spring rate, allowing for extensive customization. These are ideal for serious performance applications but can be more expensive and complex to install.

4. Total Suspension Kits:

These comprehensive kits replace almost all suspension components, offering a complete upgrade. They often include upgraded control arms, bushings, ball joints, and other components in addition to shocks and springs, providing a substantial improvement in overall handling and ride quality.

Key Components to Consider

When selecting a kit, pay close attention to these key components:

Shocks/Struts: High-quality shocks are crucial for effective dampening and controlled body movements. Consider gas-charged or adjustable shocks depending on your needs.
Springs: Spring rate (stiffness) significantly impacts ride quality and handling. Stiffer springs provide better handling but can create a harsher ride.
Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars): These bars reduce body roll during cornering, improving stability and responsiveness. Thicker sway bars provide more control but can make the ride firmer.
Bushings: High-quality polyurethane or other performance bushings reduce suspension deflection, improving responsiveness and feel.
Control Arms: Upgraded control arms can improve suspension geometry and handling.

Choosing the Right Kit for Your 1967 Mustang

Choosing the best suspension kit involves careful consideration of your driving style, budget, and desired level of performance. Research different brands and read reviews from other Mustang owners before making a purchase. Remember to factor in the cost of installation, as professional installation is often recommended for complex kits. With the right suspension upgrade, you can transform your 1967 Mustang into a true handling machine, enjoying a more exhilarating and controlled driving experience.