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Suspension and brakes help

  • Thread starter Thread starter dtarkir
  • Start date Start date Feb 3, 2006
D

dtarkir

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Feb 2, 2006
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Feb 3, 2006
#1
  • Feb 3, 2006
  • #1
I am working on a 1965 Mustang GT Fastback that my father had and let sit for almost 28 years. My goal is for it to be a street driver with better handling and a little more power. The original engine is a 289 with 225 HP.

Body work and paint done. Interior done except for door panels, a new radio, and adding new AC unit. Next up is the suspension, brakes, wheels and tires. That is where I am looking for some ideas.

I definitely want to keep the original style steel wheels although I see that they are now available in 15” sizes. Possibly go to 15” wheels with a wider and lower profile tire. Probably lower front and rear 1-2 inches. Need to replace front springs and shocks, probably gas adjustable. In the rear replace springs. I have already installed traction bars and have sub frame connector, monte carlo bar and shock tower brace.

As far as brakes I can either rebuild the existing disc brakes and put discs in the rear (with parking brake) or upgrade existing front brakes and leave drums in rear and maybe replace them down the road. Replace (upgrade?) master cylinder.

Looking for suggestions on options to consider. Assuming I go to 15” wheels what is the best width and tire size so I do not have to worry about clearance issues.. On brakes where will I get the best bang for the buck? The same on the suspension. I am hoping to do the suspension and brakes (not counting wheels and tires) in the $2,000.00-2,500.00 range.

Thanks for your help in this project.

Dennis
 

HistoricMustang

Active Member
Apr 11, 2003
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0
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Feb 3, 2006
#2
  • Feb 3, 2006
  • #2
dtarkir said:
I am working on a 1965 Mustang GT Fastback that my father had and let sit for almost 28 years. My goal is for it to be a street driver with better handling and a little more power. The original engine is a 289 with 225 HP.

Body work and paint done. Interior done except for door panels, a new radio, and adding new AC unit. Next up is the suspension, brakes, wheels and tires. That is where I am looking for some ideas.

I definitely want to keep the original style steel wheels although I see that they are now available in 15” sizes. Possibly go to 15” wheels with a wider and lower profile tire. Probably lower front and rear 1-2 inches. Need to replace front springs and shocks, probably gas adjustable. In the rear replace springs. I have already installed traction bars and have sub frame connector, monte carlo bar and shock tower brace.

As far as brakes I can either rebuild the existing disc brakes and put discs in the rear (with parking brake) or upgrade existing front brakes and leave drums in rear and maybe replace them down the road. Replace (upgrade?) master cylinder.

Looking for suggestions on options to consider. Assuming I go to 15” wheels what is the best width and tire size so I do not have to worry about clearance issues.. On brakes where will I get the best bang for the buck? The same on the suspension. I am hoping to do the suspension and brakes (not counting wheels and tires) in the $2,000.00-2,500.00 range.

Thanks for your help in this project.

Dennis
Click to expand...

Dennis, use the search function here at StagNet to narrow down your options. Then put them up?

And oh yes, Welcome.

HistoricMustang
www.historicmustang.com
 
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