Ford Mustang: How to Build and Modify 1964 1/2-1973

Book excerpt: The first-generation Mustang is an enduring classic but it was built using 50-year-old technology. These cars use antiquated equipment that includes drum brakes, breaker points ignition systems, and 14-inch steel wheels. The OEM running gear is obsolete by today’s standards but all of these Mustangs can turn into high-performance street machines that can compete with late-model Mustangs. While certain special-build and high-performance models should be preserved, many common V-8 Mustangs can be transformed into high-performance cars that rival the new cars of today. The Mustang can be upgraded and modified into a true driving machine by installing aftermarket suspension, steering, and driveline technology. Mustang expert and former Ford engineer Frank Bohanan explains how to perform simple and important bolt-on upgrades that radically increase performance. He explains the rationale and process of installing a crate engine, big high-performance brake kits, coil-over shocks, tubular A-arms, multi-link rear suspension, and many other projects that increase performance by leaps and bounds. From mild to wild, you are shown how to upgrade each component group in the car by stages according to budget and difficulty. These components include engine, transmission, rear differential, front suspension, rear suspension, steering, chassis, electrics, interior, tires, wheels, and more. By completing these procedures and product installs, you can complete an improved street car, a high-performance street car, or a street/track-day car. No other book provides the same level of information and instruction for transforming the first-generation Mustang into a car that performs with the best on the road today.