Re: [Classic Mustang] Replacing 66' Coil springs, HD or Stock?

Terry,

If you are going to be tooling around in this car on the street,
attending functions and meets, I would recommend that put it back
stock. The springs used for the V8 were necessary because of the
heavier engine. HD springs would increase the stiffness even more. I
don't think you'll like the ride - noticing every little bump in the
road. You would do better with simply adding heavy duty shocks to setup.

Your engine has a dry weight of 385lbs. Compare that to the 289, which
weighs in at 460-475 (depending on options). The FE big blocks were 610
lbs (560 for the Shelby w/ aluminum intake manifold.)

I don't know what you're after here... a hard-as-nails ride is what
you'll end up with if you change the spring rate by more than 10%. If
you are looking for a 6 cyl. that corners a bit better, you might try
increasing the size (diameter) of the front sway bar - this would
improve your cornering ability (and reduce the sag and dip). It would
also engage both coil springs more than just the one on the inside
turn. I would try a standard V8 car's sway bar first... its 5/8" in
diameter, if memory serves... and it should bolt right in without a
problem. If you want something more... you might step up to the GT
version. But it might be too much as you have only half the weight up
front.

I would not recommend increasing the spring rate above factory (and I
don't recall the rate for 6cyl. coils) by more than 10-15%. Clearly, a
600lb/inch spring rate would be way, WAY too much for your car.

My thots -
Michael

Terry wrote:
> I'm getting ready to rebuild the front end on my 66' 6 cylinder coupe.
> I'm wondering if going with the HD V8 coil springs would be a bad
> choice. I'm replacing the rear leafs too and am using the HD set for
> the rear. I'm looking for someone who can tell me what difference I
> would see, one over the other, in ride, height, control..etc
>
> Thanks
> Terry
>
>

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