Project Mullet Mustang Gets Some Rear-End Upgrades
A Better Differential and Rear Suspension Help the Mullet Mustang on the Strip and the Track.
If you’ve been keeping track of Project Mullet Mustang’s progress, you’ve seen how some suspension mods coupled with wheels and tires serve to completely transform the car. By throwing on different linkages, and throwing an upgraded differential in the back while everything is apart, they focus on getting the live axle to behave as it should.
The first Speed Academy episode below showcases everything that it takes to re-build the Mullet Mustang’s rear differential. Turns out, it is not really straight forward at all. Shims play a very important role in the bearing races, as the pinion gears need to be perfectly aligned. Engagement of the gears is judged by applying a paint to see where the teeth engage on both the acceleration and deceleration side. Tooth engagement closest to the center for both the ring gear and the pinion gear is the most ideal scenario.
Once the differential is all buttoned up, it’s time to address the weak link in the suspension. Panhard bars are good, because they are cheap, simple, and effective. They don’t quite work in performance applications though. Geometrically speaking, a Watts link is far superior. Instead of pivoting from one side of the car, a Watts link keeps the axle centered during its articulation. Additionally, the upgraded bushings included in this kit means you have less play in the suspension. Power can be put down sooner, and with more confidence.
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Via [Speed Academy]