Ground cleanance issues may force me to keep stock suspension!!!

[Car Nut]

I've only got 4 inches of ground clearance with a Bassani X-pipe AND a bone stock suspension. I just made the measurement a few minutes ago. I also have stock headers and catback.

The problem:

I'd like to lower my car 1-1.5 inches, but that sure doesn't leave me much room. While looking at the underside of my car, my whole X-pipe (especially the cats) are lower than EVERYTHING under the car. Even my subframe connectors allow much more clearance.

Am I screwed OR should I have a shop somehow try to fix this issue (if at all possible)?

I've got another post about the suspension I'd like, but in short, it involves H&R springs, Tokico struts/shocks, MM C/C plates, all new poly spring isolators, etc. Should I reconsider the Bullitt Suspension Kit?

Lastly, how much clearance is acceptable and where does the unacceptable level begin?

Thanks to anyone who can help. I'm desperate now, as I've bought most of my suspension stuff, minus the springs/shocks/struts.

 

[5.0_GT_kid]

Just from what you described I'm going to guess that the X-pipe and such is too low. Have a shop adjust that.

 

[slvrbullit302]

I would try and have it adjusted, My car was lowered 2" with the mac pro chamber and long tubes and the only time bottomed out was when i went over those excessively tall speed bumps other than that no issues.
In the pic below the prochamber still had about an inch of clearance.

 

[Car Nut]

1 inch!!! WOW! That's freak'n low.

T&J performance is nearby, aka Modular Ford Powerhouse. I'm using them to install all the suspension stuff, plus an oil pan gasket (leak). I'm sure they can adjust it correctly.

My x-pipe is bolted in and not welded, so I guess getting an extra half inch or so should be easy.

I'm really interested in the H&R springs (either sport or race), but it depends on if Tokico premiums can handle the Race springs. If not, then I don't want to put out the $$$ for better ones.

Thanks.

 

[slvrbullit302]

They are a pretty good shop, I have heard nothing but good reviews about them.

 

[Car Nut]

Yeah, I like to get things done right the first time or at least be able to count on good service and customer service. T&J is well known for those things, so I have a great deal of confidence in them.

I had a local muffler shop quote me a pretty steep price, I think $450, to replace the oil pan gasket. I'm sure since T&J work on engines all the time, that this is a pretty simple procedure and hopefully, less costly.

Thanks.

 

[Mrgreen94gt]

I scraped and bottomed out more with stock suspension than I ever have with it lowered. Stock is too squishy and has a lot of travel.

 

[Car Nut]

I scraped and bottomed out more with stock suspension than I ever have with it lowered. Stock is too squishy and has a lot of travel.

Good to know and consider. I didn't think of it that way, but it makes sense. Like I said above, I may go for the H&R race springs which have a high progressive rate, but only if Tokico premiums work well. If the premiums will wear out prematurely, then I'll go with H&R sports.