OK guys i need some help here.
I have a 66 coupe that has a 6 in it and im going to swap it to a v8.
A guy at work told me that he had a 69 back in the day and he swapped his 6 out for an 8. He also said he left the suspension stock and his tie rods and ball joints were always wearing out.
Well my question is what needs to be upgraded on the suspension and front end for the v8 swap?
I would rather stay away from the whole mustang II deal and rack and pinion setup because i like things stock.
Are the 6 cyl front ends/susp. that wimpy?
Thanks Matt

 

6 cylinder front suspension and steering components that must be changed for V-8 conversion:

Coil springs
spindles
hubs
brake drums
brake shoes, hardware, wheel cylinders
inner and outer tie rods and sleeves
drag link
idler arm
pitman arm, steering box if early smaller shaft design
sway bar and frame mount bushings
Leaf springs
differential assy
rear brake drums, shoes, wheel cylinders, hardware

That's a start, hope this list helps. You need to find a rolling V-8 parts car. Or, I recommend selling the 6 cylinder Mustang and buying a V-8, it will be worth more in the long run after you fix it up! kennyg

 

You need to upgrade the suspension to V8 levels. Seriously. The 65-66 6-cyl stuff is too fragile.

Your buddy was OK (kinda) b/c by '69 Ford had upgraded the 6-cyl stuff to something resembling V8 levels. Not the case in '66.

I agree with Kenny, sell the coupe, buy a V8 coupe. You'll be miles and cubic dollars/aggravation ahead.