1970 Mustang Torque Arm Rear Suspension System - Upgrade

Tech | Suspension Upgrade
Rear Torque Arm Suspension System
Classic Fords, Mercurys, and even Lincolns are great-looking rides with exceptional styling and a huge following. They're also well documented in the power and performance department. Remember, Ford is the only domestic automaker ever to have won Le Mans, doing so three consecutive times in the '60s and trampling on Ferrari in the process. After three consecutive Le Mans wins, Ford had nothing else to prove. So if you have a classic Ford with lots of power, how do you fully exploit it? Via Total Cost Involved's '65-'70 Mustang Cougar torque arm rear suspension system. It's a good place to start.

Here's the entire torque arm... 

   

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Here's the entire torque arm suspension package from TCI, with the exception being the 9-inch Ford axle assembly, which is separate. As you can see, brackets need to be welded to a 9-inch Ford housing, which is the only specialized welding necessary. This is more than just a torque arm suspension system, it also employs super stiff subframe connectors and a crossbrace with a driveshaft safety loop. Torque arm, links, Panhard bar, and adjustable coilover shocks provide unequaled stability.

If you're rubbing your eyes after reading the words "bolt-on," don't. This is the genuine article-a bolt-on four-link suspension system you can install in your home garage with jackstands, a floor jack, and simple handtools. You will also need a 9-inch Ford rear axle (not included) that has been properly set up for the TCI torque arm system.

Here's What You Get
Frame Stiffener (also called subframe connector)
Torque Arm Bar (adjustable for proper pinion angle)
Reinforcement Plates
Subframe Connectors
Driveshaft Safety Loop
Three-Link Design
Frame Brackets & Hardware
Adjustable Panhard Bar
Shock Brackets
Adjustable Coilover Shocks

Here's What You Can Also Get (Options)
Huge 12 or 13-inch Wilwood Disc Brakes
Air Spring Suspension (air bags)
Complete 9-inch Ford Rear Axle Assembly
Traction-Lok
Billet Coilover Shocks
Chrome Coils

This rear framerail bracket...        read full caption This rear framerail bracket is first, as shown. Because it uses the forward leaf spring mount bolt, location is indexed off of this bolt. Bolt the bracket in place snugly, but not tight, and drill the three mounting holes using a 7/16-inch drill bit. Begin with a small 1/4-inch pilot hole. Use the Grade 8 hardware provided to secure the bracket.

Subframe connectors are next....        read full caption Subframe connectors are next. They bolt in on both ends at the front and rear framerails. We suggest welding in the side connectors for improved integrity. The crossbrace and driveshaft safety loop should never be welded in. It has to be removed from time to time for driveline access.

This is the upper shock mount,...        read full caption This is the upper shock mount, which is installed next. On the left side it retains the shock mount only. On the righthand side it also has a mount for the Panhard bar. This piece attaches two ways-through the framerail and through the trunk floorpan on both sides.