1989 Mustang LX Rear Suspension Upgrade - Bringing Back The Bite

The caps are directional and each is marked from Ford. These caps are just like main caps in an engine--don't mix them up or install them incorrectly.

Latemodel Restoration offers five-lug conversion kits in both 28-spline and 31-spline axle configurations. We selected the tougher 31-spline versions.

The axles slid in easily.

Five lugs are better than four, and highly recommended in fast, heavyweight vehicles.

We used the supplied C-clip to fasten the axle in place. If we want to run at NHRA/IHRA-sanctioned tracks, we will need to buy a C-clip eliminator kit to keep the axles in place. The C-clips are not legal due to their propensity to sheer and crack under extreme stress. Once the clip lets go, the axle is capable of flying out of the rearend housing. C-clip eliminator kits hold the axle in place--a far safer method in racing applications.

We kept the drum brakes and installed the new drum from Latemodel Restoration.

The springs fore and aft were cranked down as much possible in order to give our coupe a racecar look. It should sit a little lower, but the springs hadn't settled yet. It takes a day or two for them to settle to normal height under weight.

Once on the ground, the M/T drag radials looked mean and intimidating. The tires fill the wheel openings nicely.