This photo shows the completed front end air spring from Air Ride's Shockwave line, as used in the '67-'70 Mustang (PN SKW1022, $969). The unit functions as both a spring and shock absorber. The small, black knob visible at the bottom of each air spring is an adjustment for damping characteristics. There are 12 settings, with No. 1 being the softest at the extreme counter-clockwise position. Start at three or four clicks and then fine-tune to your preference. Air Ride has Shockwave systems for many Fords, including '65-'66 Mustangs, Galaxies, and Thunderbirds.
On our car, the old suspension...
On our car, the old suspension has been completely removed following typical shop manual practices, and installation of the new Air Ride system can begin. All of the original components, including the upper shock bracket and its fasteners as well as the coil spring hat or isolator, can be discarded.
Installation begins with the...
Installation begins with the placement of this top plate, which will be the upper half of an assembly that will sandwich the top of the shock tower.
Here, the lower portion of...
Here, the lower portion of the air spring support is added to the underside of the shock tower. It is of heavy construction because this part carries the weight of the car while the upper plate serves only to keep everything in the correct position.
Now the Mustang shock tower...
Now the Mustang shock tower is ready to receive the new air spring assembly. It's a bulletproof arrangement. All of the required fasteners are included in the front Shockwave kit.
Before the air spring can...
Before the air spring can be put into the car, the required air fitting is installed. Although not in the instructions, Teflon tape has been used as a thread sealant to ensure there are no leaks when the job is done. Liquid Teflon sealant is an option as well.
With the air fitting installed...
With the air fitting installed onto the air spring, a washer and rubber bushing are fitted to the upper end of the unit. This is no different than what a conventional shock absorber would have.
Here, the front air springs...
Here, the front air springs are installed into the car. The lower cross-shaft on the air spring replaces the conventional spring perch found on the upper control arm in the stock configuration.
This shows the upper end of...
This shows the upper end of the air spring in place using a supplied flat washer and retaining nut. All that remains to do on the upper end of the unit is to tighten the jamb nut. On the bottom of the air spring, the fasteners are installed at the cross-shaft, securing it to the upper control arm.
Here's the completed air-spring...
Here's the completed air-spring installation at the shock tower. When routing lines to the spring, be sure to avoid both moving parts and heat from the exhaust system.