Possibly going to start my Mustang collection with an '05-'09 but, there's a catch...

[randy_tho]

See my post above.

Originally Posted by Automagically

It's this that gets me. I used to think the 2010+ was the be all end all but I am very happy about my decision to stick with the early S197.

I also am not as concerned about the "only 300Hp" factor either. It is easily overcome. My first concerns are real world performance, i.e., sportier suspension, brakes, short throw shifter. 300Hp will get me where I need to go. If my Accord can do it, so can the Mustang, my biggest gripes about my current car is that the brakes are too soggy for me and it just doesn't handle as firmly and confidently as I would like.

I want to take the best handling aspect as I can while keeping a road going friendliness to the car.
Exhaust is always just a nice touch to add as it is intoxicating to hear as well as drive. I think a power pack with a tuner, exhaust and CAI would be a good investment down the road. Getting the car to better mannerisms, is the first must. Just because a car has a lot of power, doesn't mean it's being used to its full potential.

[Automagically]

Originally Posted by randy_tho

Sounds like you need to try to go for a 2008-09 with the 3.55 and throw in a Hurst or MGW, a good tune and CAI, some steeda sports, koni adjustables, panhard bar and brace and call it a day. Maybe try to find a IUP/Premier Trim to get a slightly more upscale feeling interior.

There is a reason this platform is used in so many road race competitions.

Originally Posted by randy_tho

See my post above.

Yep, that's exactly the plan! Not sure if I need the Koni adjustables or not, but a good set none the less.

If I can't find one with an IUP/Premier trim I will find a way to get the parts put in. Would love the satin Bullitt rings on the vents but, I'd have to get a new cluster panel to match so we will see about that later down the road, waaaaaaaaay later.

[Automagically]

I still don't know what the answer is for my lowering so......
My car will be street driven 99.8% of the time. I want similar results as my 335i but with a little less roll and ver smooth turn in.

My list:
FRPP Handling Pack 1" Drop (Don't figure I need the adjustable shocks unless someone can tell me why I might NEED them)
Steeda Chrome Molly lower Rears
Possibly Steeda Pan Hard and Bump Steer kit.


Anyone see any issues with this? Should I just go all out and buy every kit on Steeda or FRPP's website? Probably not but I want a good solid suspension.

[randy_tho]

I believe the FRPP suspension stuff is not considered to be all that great (but not that bad). I think its mostly intrax or eibach. Steeda seems to make lots of good stuff but you can quickly go overboard with them imo for a street car. I think you should start minimally with well matched shocks/struts, springs, and maybe a panhard and brace, and strut mounts. Depending on how low you go you'll need more corrective pieces. (Adjustable control arms, bumpsteer) I believe 1" won't require anything beyond possibly the adj panhard (which will give you a more rigid bar and mounts) and the camber correction. I would get the Steeda HD mounts which can correct camber.

The idea with the adjustable shocks is you can fine tune them with matching a spring and also dial in to some degree the "rebound" when the suspension changes momentum. Best way I can attempt to explain. I went with the STR.T Koni nonadjustable because of price and the fact they had such great reviews with the springs I used.

[Automagically]

Originally Posted by randy_tho

I believe the FRPP suspension stuff is not considered to be all that great (but not that bad). I think its mostly intrax or eibach. Steeda seems to make lots of good stuff but you can quickly go overboard with them imo for a street car. I think you should start minimally with well matched shocks/struts, springs, and maybe a panhard and brace, and strut mounts. Depending on how low you go you'll need more corrective pieces. (Adjustable control arms, bumpsteer) I believe 1" won't require anything beyond possibly the adj panhard (which will give you a more rigid bar and mounts) and the camber correction. I would get the Steeda HD mounts which can correct camber.

The idea with the adjustable shocks is you can fine tune them with matching a spring and also dial in to some degree the "rebound" when the suspension changes momentum. Best way I can attempt to explain. I went with the STR.T Koni nonadjustable because of price and the fact they had such great reviews with the springs I used.

I don't know why I would want to go lower than an inch for daily use. I have done the "slammed" route before on a 4500lbs vehicle, it really isn't the best idea in the long run. I want realistic outcomes this time around.

BTW I didn't see what type of springs you are using in your signature, just the strut mounts, panhard and brace.

[randy_tho]

Originally Posted by Automagically

I don't know why I would want to go lower than an inch for daily use. I have done the "slammed" route before on a 4500lbs vehicle, it really isn't the best idea in the long run. I want realistic outcomes this time around.

BTW I didn't see what type of springs you are using in your signature, just the strut mounts, panhard and brace.

I'm using the Steeda Sports. They apparently have a slightly less aggressive drop than the ultralites. I am pleased with them but don't have too much experience with other models.

[Automagically]

Originally Posted by randy_tho

I'm using the Steeda Sports. They apparently have a slightly less aggressive drop than the ultralites. I am pleased with them but don't have too much experience with other models.

I won't go with the ultralites. Sounds good in theory but it won't make much of a difference to me. Still thinking the Steeda Sports.

Do you have a pic of the car, side profile?

[randy_tho]

I've not taken any pictures since install but there are tons of guys running them.
http://www.americanmuscle.com/stspsp2.html

[Automagically]

Originally Posted by randy_tho

I've not taken any pictures since install but there are tons of guys running them.
http://www.americanmuscle.com/stspsp2.html

Thanks!

Does anyone know what year the MyColor changes were made to include the ambient lighting and cup holder LED? 2008?

[BlueSkyVert]

2008.

[Automagically]

Originally Posted by BlueSkyVert

2008.

Thanks, I got confirmation in another thread just about the time I was about to fix my original post.


I would like to add all the ambient lighting but I can't find any kits anymore. Like they just disappeared.

Edit: Found the kit, just need to be able to retrofit to an '07 if possible. That is if I can't find an '08. Unfortunately to complete the kit in the cup holder I will need the entire console from an '08 to get the Plexiglas ring around the cup holder.....

[jedikd]

I would try to find a late-model 08 with the premier interior trim. Plus I believe late-08 was when they switched to the new one-piece spark plug design. If your buying a early-08 or earlier ask about the spark plugs and if they've been replaced.

[Automagically]

Originally Posted by jedikd

I would try to find a late-model 08 with the premier interior trim. Plus I believe late-08 was when they switched to the new one-piece spark plug design. If your buying a early-08 or earlier ask about the spark plugs and if they've been replaced.

I have not read up on this much but I know of the subject. Can the 05-07's be updated with the one-piece plug design? Cost?

The reason I ask is because there is an '07 GT/CS within 30 mins of my place that I am very interested in but there is an '08 GT/CS in Houston, exactly the same model, just an '08. Didn't know if I should waste the extra time and money going to Houston to pick up the '08 or just grab what's MUCH closer to me.

[jedikd]

Originally Posted by Automagically

I have not read up on this much but I know of the subject. Can the 05-07's be updated with the one-piece plug design? Cost?

Many S197 owners have experienced the two-piece plugs breaking off in the heads when trying to change them:
http://www.stangnet.com/mustang-foru...ange-hell.html

The cost to have a dealer extract the plugs can get pricy.

[Automagically]

From AFM: Champion #7989

I suppose I will need these possibly.

[jedikd]

Originally Posted by Automagically

From AFM: Champion #7989

I suppose I will need these possibly.

That's what I'll be putting in soon here. fingers-crossed the old ones come out ok!

[randy_tho]

I put in the 7989 with good results for about 15-20K now I think. Just inspect them good out of the box. Some had quality problems. On mid year 08 look for brown COP boots on the plugs. That should signify the one piece plug head design.

Personally I wouldn't go to too much trouble for the ambient lighting. I would look for a premier trim car though. Leather dash, arm rests, and cool pedals like the GT500. Dash can't really be retrofitted.

[Automagically]

Originally Posted by randy_tho

I put in the 7989 with good results for about 15-20K now I think. Just inspect them good out of the box. Some had quality problems. On mid year 08 look for brown COP boots on the plugs. That should signify the one piece plug head design.

Personally I wouldn't go to too much trouble for the ambient lighting. I would look for a premier trim car though. Leather dash, arm rests, and cool pedals like the GT500. Dash can't really be retrofitted.

Yeah, I probably won't make a fuss about it. I just think it makes the interior look a little more upgraded. Leather dash?? Never seen any mustang with a leather dash.

I did go test drive a 2006 GT and I think I am going to post it in a new thread as I have a few concerning issues.

[jedikd]

Originally Posted by Automagically

Yeah, I probably won't make a fuss about it. I just think it makes the interior look a little more upgraded. Leather dash?? Never seen any mustang with a leather dash.

I did go test drive a 2006 GT and I think I am going to post it in a new thread as I have a few concerning issues.

It does have a leather dash pad in the premier trim, heard the only way to upgrade to it is to buy a whole new dash for $1200, ouch. Here's all the details on the premier trim:

"Includes wrapped and stitched instrument panel brow, console lid and upgraded door
armrests, satin-aluminum-plated shift lever (automatic) or bright polished shift knob (manual), aluminum pedal covers, leather-trimmed sport bucket front and rear seats, matching door-trim inserts and
floor mats, and your choice of 5 interior color combinations."

One of my few regrets about my 07 was not springing for the premier trim.

[randy_tho]

Whole dash has a thin layer of leather coating. May not be real leather but changes the finish of the dash dramatically.