The Global West subframe connectors...
The Global West subframe connectors come in pairs, one for each side. They tie the front and rear framerails together for chassis stiffness.
First, the surfaces to be...
First, the surfaces to be welded must be bare steel because you cannot weld through paint and achieve a solid bond. Sand the surface down to the bare steel on both the framerail and the subframe connector.
Trial-fit the subframe connector,...
Trial-fit the subframe connector, as Bill Nesbitt of Hard Core Hot Rods & Race Cars is doing here. The objective is to get the subframe connector as close to the floorpan and rail as possible.
The subframe connector brackets...
The subframe connector brackets fit the framerail like this.
Once in place, you can use...
Once in place, you can use a screw jack to hold the subframe connector in place for welding.
It can be a tight fit, so...
It can be a tight fit, so stubborn subframe connectors and framerails sometimes warrant a whack with a mallet.
Spot in the welds, then check-fit...
Spot in the welds, then check-fit before welding in a solid bead.
The welded subframe connector...
The welded subframe connector mount should look like this. Lay down a self-etching black primer next, then apply undercoating.
The subframe connector is...
The subframe connector is installed, and will provide better structural integrity when its time to tackle a rough or twisty road.
By their vintage design, '65-'70 Mustangs struggle with structural integrity. If you don't believe us, try this. Measure your door-to-fender gaps with the car on the ground. Jack one corner completely off the ground. Now measure the door-to-fender gaps. There will be some difference in the dimensions because unit-body Mustangs don't have a full frame like Galaxies and other composite-body cars, so they tend to flex. With unit-body vehicles like the Mustang, Falcon, Fairlane, Comet/Cyclone, and Cougar, the body and frame are an integral, welded-together, monocoque assembly.
When unit-body automobiles are stressed in hard cornering and rough-road conditions, their bodies flex and twist, which changes dimensions all over the place. This can adversely affect handling, not to mention safety. Global West Suspensions' solution to the early Mustang's structural shortcomings are subframe connectors--dual tubular bracing that bolster a Mustang's backbone to prevent the flex and twist so common to these cars.
For a closer look at how to install the Global West subframe connectors, we visited John's Mustangs & Classics in San Diego where Bill Nesbitt of Hard Core Hot Rods & Race Cars handled our installation. If you have access to a welder, subframe connectors are easy to install yourself and will make a big difference in your Mustang's structural integrity.