Nestled deep in California's Central Valley is a quiet yet busy shop known as Stang-Aholics. While it isn't a large business, its owners possess a wealth of talent and a passion for classic Mustangs. These gentlemen build exciting restomods ready for the 21st century. When we visited, they were about to install a Heidt's four-link suspension system on a '68 Mustang hardtop, so we stuck around to see how it's done.
Why install a Heidt's four-link on a 40-year-old Ford? Because it works. A four-link suspension allows you to tune your Ford's rearend for improved handling, stability, and pinpoint alignment. Once tuned, it remains in proper adjustment.
Due to its reputation, Stang-Aholics chose to team up with Heidt's Hot Rod Shop in Chicago for this four-link rear suspension for classic Mustangs. This is a fully adjustable rear-suspension system that will change the way you think about classic Mustangs, Falcons, Comets, and Fairlanes. You can tune pinion angle; adjust axle position; tweak the coilover shocks for a smooth ride, awesome handling, or a combination of both; and of course, adjust ride height. What's more, you don't have to cut anything. The Heidt's four-link bolts to existing chassis attachment points.
Heidt's also offers subframe...
Heidt's also offers subframe connectors that tie into the four-link system, making your underpinnings cohesive and effective. Stang-Aholics painted these components a bright orange at the owner's request, but you may choose any color you like. Out of the box, these parts are yellow.
The Missing Link for Classic Fords
Check out this fully adjustable four-link suspension system from Heidt's Hot Rod Shop. It's a bolt-on class act that takes Mustang handling and performance to the next level. Adjustable coilover shocks make it easy to tune ride and handling. Fully articulating links allow you to tune pinion angle and alignment. A Panhard bar keeps the axle centered under the toughest driving conditions.
Installation can be accomplished in a weekend if you have a rear axlehousing that's already prepared. Brackets must be welded to the axlehousing. This is best performed by a professional versed in fabrication, who will find the dimensions provided in the kit instructions.
Here's what you need to know...
Here's what you need to know for axle setup. Coilover shocks and four-links join the axle at these points. It's important to ascertain dimensions before welding. If you're not confident in this, consult a professional fabricator.
The four-link hardware attachment...
The four-link hardware attachment points shown here will get you started. Follow them to the letter. Front brackets attach at the forward leaf-spring bushing anchor point.
Pinion angle is crucial to...
Pinion angle is crucial to safe and vibration-free operation. Adjust pinion angle to 3 1/2 degrees per Heidt's instructions.
Position the crossmember end...
Position the crossmember end brackets as shown. Each bracket is positioned 16 3/8 inches from the trailing edge (back) to the center of the shackle-bushing bore. Get the brackets flush with the framerail, and anchor them with C-clamps before drilling mounting holes.
Center-punch the mounting...
Center-punch the mounting holes and drill a 1/4-inch pilot hole in each. Next, drill 1/2-inch-diameter holes completely through the framerail. Give each hole a dash of primer/sealer for corrosion prevention.
Temporarily install the attaching...
Temporarily install the attaching bolts and check fitment on both sides.
You may have to work the brackets...
You may have to work the brackets with a hammer for proper fit. Framerail stampings vary as much in width as these brackets.
Install the crossmember, which...
Install the crossmember, which is a simple bolt-on affair.
The crossmember includes upper...
The crossmember includes upper shock mounts.
Here's another view where...
Here's another view where the crossmember and right end bracket meet.
The front link brackets are...
The front link brackets are installed next and are virtually identical. They attach at the framerail and leaf-spring bushing bore. Holes must be drilled where the brackets attach with 1/2-inch bolts.
Here's the left-side forward...
Here's the left-side forward link bracket. Center-punch the hole; then drill a 1/4-inch pilot hole as a guide. Next, drill 1/2-inch holes, taking care not to strike anything inside the vehicle.
Subframe Connectors For Strength
Classic Mustangs suffer from inadequate structural support; they twist and flex under harsh driving conditions. When chosen and installed properly, subframe connectors stiffen the underbody and provide exceptional support. Not all subframe connectors are created equal. Heidt's has designed one that follows the floorpan and doesn't require welding. It's a removable, bolt-on design, however, we suggest welding it for optimum strength.
Heidt's subframe connectors...
Heidt's subframe connectors are easy to install and remove. If you desire, they can be permanently welded.
This steel spacer inserts...
This steel spacer inserts where the original forward leaf-spring bushing was located. The subframe connector bolts here.
Once the spacer and subframe...
Once the spacer and subframe are in place, install this spacer and bolt as shown on both sides. The bottom bolt holes are for lower links.
Subframe connectors dovetail...
Subframe connectors dovetail into front framerail extensions as shown. As with the rear brackets, center-punch each hole; then drill a 1/4-inch pilot hole. Drill four 1/2-inch bolt holes across each framerail extension.
Install the lower links using...
Install the lower links using the spacers and hardware provided.
Reinforcement plates go on...
Reinforcement plates go on each side.
Remember-shortest links go...
Remember-shortest links go on top, longest links go on the bottom.
It's a matter of personal...
It's a matter of personal preference where you locate link adjustments. Heidt's suggests at the axle for easy access.
Install adjustable coilover...
Install adjustable coilover shocks as shown.
Stang-Aholics had a custom...
Stang-Aholics had a custom Currie 9-inch rearend built for this Mustang. It has been powdercoated black for looks and protection. Currie welded the Heidt's brackets in a jig.
All that's left is the Panhard...
All that's left is the Panhard bar, which maintains axle stability when things get wild. Once installation is complete, we suggest a precision four-wheel alignment.