- Sep 11, 2004
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I just bought a 69 Mach 1 (351w 2V) that is completely original and a great driver. The problem is that the car is too slow. It is an H code which means it has a 2V carb. Also not helping it move out of its own way is the heavy (and starting to leak) FMX tranny. It has a 9" with 3.00's as well. I am having a hard time deciding what to do with the car. This is where I would like to hear your opinions, and any other help would be appreciated. As is, it is in excellent condition. The suspension is all original and can use some help too. What do you recommend as far as street driving and cruising for suspension. I would like to put 17x8 and 17x9.5 Torque thrust II's. How should I set up the suspension to give it that low mean stance with nice wheels to fill the gaps. I don't want to spend the money on a coilover kit from GW. I don't want to start drilling holes and getting to involved with suspension, just a good handling kit that will lower it.
As for the drivetrain, should I pull the original motor and drop in a stroker motor (this is what I would like to do but don't want to spend that much) or put a manifold and carb on the original and add the new Paxton Novi 1200 supercharger kit made for the 69 mustang with a 351w. I was thinking of doing a T-5 swap but not sure if there is a lot of cutting involved to switch from auto to manual. Someone said it might not be a good idea to swap a t5 if i would decide to put it back to original oneday. Anything I do modify i will tag and store it. I have considered a built AOD and not have to cut anything. I know its hard to give an opinion if you do not know what my intention is with the car. I will be mostly going to cruise spots and shows, and maybe some weekend racing on occasion. I am a speed freak but realize there's no where to use 600 hp on long island anymore. I would be happy with 400-450hp. Another question would be what gears to run in the rear. I know this depends on the tranny I use. Either way I would like to go with an OD so I'm guessing 3.91 or 4.11's. I am looking forward to hearing from you and your opinions, on helping me make the right plan the first time. Thank you in advance.
As for the drivetrain, should I pull the original motor and drop in a stroker motor (this is what I would like to do but don't want to spend that much) or put a manifold and carb on the original and add the new Paxton Novi 1200 supercharger kit made for the 69 mustang with a 351w. I was thinking of doing a T-5 swap but not sure if there is a lot of cutting involved to switch from auto to manual. Someone said it might not be a good idea to swap a t5 if i would decide to put it back to original oneday. Anything I do modify i will tag and store it. I have considered a built AOD and not have to cut anything. I know its hard to give an opinion if you do not know what my intention is with the car. I will be mostly going to cruise spots and shows, and maybe some weekend racing on occasion. I am a speed freak but realize there's no where to use 600 hp on long island anymore. I would be happy with 400-450hp. Another question would be what gears to run in the rear. I know this depends on the tranny I use. Either way I would like to go with an OD so I'm guessing 3.91 or 4.11's. I am looking forward to hearing from you and your opinions, on helping me make the right plan the first time. Thank you in advance.
a better trans though would be the richmond 4+1 5spd(not an overdrive, but you can use 2.50-3.00 gears with a deep first gear like a 4.05 for your dig off the line) as it is a much stronger tranny than the T56 is, and it fits the mustang trans tunnel much better than a tremec does. for wheels, i think i would stay with a 16x8 wheel on all four corners and a 245/50r-16 tire, or there about. tire clearance is one reason, but also oyu dont need the wider tire or the shorter sidewall unless you are going all out road racing. remember since oyu are going to drive this car on the street you need at least an acceptable ride quality as well. the difference in handling will likely never be seen or noticed.
