Fox T-Bird/Cougar Forums

Technical => Suspension/Steering => Topic started by: im gay as hell on April 01, 2005, 10:13:19 AM

Title: strut bar
Post by: im gay as hell on April 01, 2005, 10:13:19 AM
would a mustang strutbar fit on a 1987 t bird \ the one that goes from both fengers to the fire wall triangle shaped
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Chuck W on April 01, 2005, 10:59:19 AM
Yes...theoretically.  The engine bay dimensions are the same between the two.  I've run them on all of mine.

It depends on the engine in the car.  5.0's are no problem and the same goes for the 2.3T's.  Not too certain about the 3.8's.  CFI cars are not normally a problem, but the EFI ones might have issues around the intake.
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Chris1987LX on April 02, 2005, 01:00:14 PM
I was able to dry fit a brace in my bay - I have the 3.8. I may end up buying one.

Chris
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: shame302 on April 02, 2005, 01:45:35 PM
chuck..did it make as big of a differance as i hear they do?
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Sancho on April 06, 2005, 09:08:20 PM
Yes, not as much as a g-load brace but its a good improvement
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Chuck W on April 07, 2005, 12:34:06 AM
Yup, they do make a difference. 

As stated the lowe braces make a big difference as well, but some do not fit the Tbirds as well as there are some minor differences is the lower K-member attaching points.  Not a big deal, but this is where some attach....
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: EricCoolCats on April 07, 2005, 08:58:18 AM
It should also be noted that where the strut tower mounts to the firewall area, with most Mustang braces, you will end up moving the washer fluid tube over. Not really that big of a deal, but it does require drilling a hole.
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Chuck W on April 07, 2005, 09:07:45 AM
I guess that depends on the brace then.  I never had to move it on mine.  It is right next to it though, so yes, if the STB has a large f/w mount plate, you will have to relocate the washer fluid tube.
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: EricCoolCats on April 07, 2005, 09:26:05 AM
Right, a smaller mounting area should be fine. I just didn't want anyone to get the idea that they can simply drop in any brace, bolt it up, no mods necessary, and be done with it. Anyone that's worked on these cars should know things just never work like that. ;)
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: 1WLD BRD on April 07, 2005, 06:19:41 PM
I just test fit mine, (I think it is a FRPP part)  And it fits, but I will have to lower the hose.  No big deal though.
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Clayton on April 07, 2005, 06:19:42 PM
truth hurts to mechanics doesnt it?
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Chuck W on April 07, 2005, 06:23:36 PM
Quote from: 87thunderbirdBlackJack
truth hurts to mechanics doesnt it?


Huh?
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: bduly on April 08, 2005, 01:52:26 AM
anyone have pictures of tbird/cougar engine bay with strut tower brace? Post pictures!  :D
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Chuck W on April 08, 2005, 09:17:47 AM
Old engine set-up

(http://www.joink.com/homes/users/jportteus/chucksengine.jpg)
Title: Re: strut bar
Post by: Clayton on April 08, 2005, 07:08:15 PM
Quote from: Chuck W
Huh?

i meant when you have to modify things alot to get them to fit, it takes more time, makes the mechanic frustrated