Q.
1987 Mercury Cougar
This is the car I have to work with so I am going to try and make it into something. It is a loaded anniversary edition in excellent shape with a 302 V8 so I will try to turn it into a fun ride. I would like to lower it an inch or two but not sure of the total impact. Can I just cut down the coil springs and if so will this cause changing a lot of the rest of the components such as the strut length and steering mechanism? There is not a lot out there about these cars, only the mustang fox bodies. Appreciate your input on this.
A.
The ’87 Cougars & Thunderbirds have not yet been fully embraced by the aftermarket but in time that is sure to change. On many cars spring coils can be cut to lower a cars drive height, although caution should be exercised in doing so. Never use a torch to cut springs as the heat will relax the spring tension in the rest of the spring. A cutoff wheel and an air blowgun work best for simultaneous cutting and cooling. It is best to cut a little and test; you can always cut more.
NOTE: When shortening springs the ride will become stiffer and harsher, as there is less spring to absorb road bumps. NEVER use a torch to lower suspension components. Many garage enthusiasts have simply placed a torch on coil springs to relax them, however you have no control on how much is lowered and the springs become more brittle once cooled.
Once your springs are cut, no additional work to the rear of the car is needed, however the front will need a front-end alignment. I would encourage you to discuss your project with your alignment shop before cutting springs to address any of their concerns during the spring shortening process.
Wrench Safe, Mark
Keep the original springs in case you want to restore it back. Get some used or aftermarket and mess with them. It give you options in the future for very little cost.
There is not much support out there for the Fox platform generation Cougar or Thunderbird.
I had a 1986 Thunderbird and while some parts interchange between the Mustang, Thunderbird, and Cougar the selections are definitely limited.
Dont cut the spring. Take measurement of you spring diameter and find a comparable spring that has a shorter compressed height. It takes a little more research but tons of companies and cars used similar springs. You may find that the Fox body spring is the same measurement but with more options. You can even call around to companies like hyperco and Espo and have custom springs made for very little based on your measurements and needs.
Cut the springs–another nice restorable car bites the dust.
How would you lower a 1965 ford 1/2 ton short wheel base pick up with the eye beam front end can you add power stering to this truck. thanks
Hello Tim,
There are a few options to lower the front end of your F100. The easiest way to lower it would be to install drop axles like those made by DJM suspensions (djmsuspension.com). Your next option would be to cut out the I-Beam front suspension and convert to one of many hot rod type front suspension systems. Although, you’ll need to be prepared to do a fair amount of welding and fabrication.
Yes, You can add power steering to your truck. The most common way to get the job done is to use the components from a 1970-79 F100. The steering box should bolt up, however you may need to transfer the steering column or make modifications (shorten) to your column to get everything to bolt up.
Wrench Safe
Becky
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