Suspension Review

Parts Installed:

• struts/shocks: Tokico Illumina 5-ways
• springs: Eibach Pro Kit (already on the car)
• 03 Cobra FLCA's
• 03 Cobra Outer Tie Rod Ends
• 4 1/4 Endlink kit
• Maximum Motorsports Caster/Camber Plates
• 13" Rotors with 30th Anniversary Calipers
• MM SS brake lines
• Prothane Swaybar bushings
• MM Center drilled Aluminum Rack bushings
• 03 Cobra Steering Shaft
• Remanufactured Steering Rack

Note: I thought my springs were FRPP C Springs, turns out they are Eibach springs (I assume pro-kit). Tires on the front are 275/35/18. Rear, 295/35/18

NVH/Ride: From many of the reviews for the 03 FLCA's, I was expecting a much better ride, especially with everything else being installed at the same time. At first, the ride was nothing short of terrible. However, once inspecting the strut towers, the top nuts were both loose, contributing to a considerable amount of metal on metal friction. Once I torqued them down better, the ride improved considerably. This is with the illuminas (front) on their softest setting. The rears didn't come with dials, so I have no clue as to what they are set at (I have to call tokico). I am going to do a bit more tuning, because I think that there is a better ride in there still.

Braking: Much improved over stock. Car feels 100% safer now. Haven't had to do any high speed braking yet (it's not recommended anyway for the first 100 miles or so) so I can't comment on fade.

Handling: Even with the tokico's set on 1, the handling is also much improved over stock. It's no lexus, but it doesn't really feel like a mustang anymore either

Turn-in Response: Dead spot in the center of the wheel has been reduced, but still exists. I have a feeling the only way to totally eliminate it is to go to a solid steering shaft like the MM unit. Turning feels much smoother now, and it is very consistent. Easier to move the wheel, and I hear NOTHING from the power steering (one of my main goals)

Alignment: The shop got it dead on. Car is straight as an arrow, and the wheels have minimal camber (just enough for improved handling)

Tire Rubbing: Before I got the alignment, the 275s were rubbing (sometimes severely) on the sway bar. Since the alignment, I haven't noticed it, so I'm hoping it's fixed. I'll report back if I have any problems.

bumpsteer Almost non-existent. Believe it or not. I was shocked.

Stance: It's nice . My only gripe is that I think 275s are too big on the front with the 03 FLCAs, as they push the tires out what looks to be 1/4in or so. I'll have pictures soon.

Aesthetics: Gorgeous. Yeah I know...pictures, pictures, pictures (be patient). Everything looks very coordinated.

Any other questions, just ask. Overall, it drives like a new car. I can't wait to open track it this summer.

bimmertech said:

next up should be front coil-overs, mm adj height rear lca's, phb, bumpsteer kit--trust me at this point you will need a bumpsteer kit, and last but not least mm offset front control arms.

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next up is forced induction . As far as suspension goes, subframes, coilovers, phb, and torque arm are next.

RAD said:

I gotta get some springs and shocks cause the wheels are too heavy for stock stuff and I hear some strange noises , how much did you paid for them tokico shocks/struts and how you adjust them ?

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$440. Adjustment is as easy as taking a flathead screwdriver to the top of the strut shaft. They have predetermined markers from 1-5 so that you can't screw it up like you could on some DA Konis.