ford spacer plate

[Brian Smith]

ford spacer plates

My new front suspension mounts are rubbing the body sheet metal. Its kind of annoying, not to mention probably not good for the bearings. Does anyone know how to install the ford spacer plates? Does it involve removing the macpherson strut assembly? Lastly will it necessitate an alignment after installation?

 

[Brian Smith]

Guess no one has done them. Well then, I will do them and report my experiences.

 

[DHMag]

My new front suspension mounts are rubbing the body sheet metal. Its kind of annoying, not to mention probably not good for the bearings. Does anyone know how to install the ford spacer plates? Does it involve removing the macpherson strut assembly? Lastly will it necessitate an alignment after installation?

Yes, Yes, and Yes only if the camber plates have been cut/drilled from the strut tower. although, ive been able to disconnect the strut assembly from the strut tower, lower it and squeeze it in there without fully removing the strut/spring assembly. it takes some contortion of your hand and manipulating with your other hand.

 

[the on going reality of shopower]

hey what shape is your plus in??? i have the same car white and all

 

[Brian Smith]

Mike, check your ***.

Dale, Would it theoretically be possible to outline the camber plates and all three nuts , lower the strut assemblies, install the plates, then realign to all the outlines? Other than the annoying grumble is there any danger to leaving the mounts where they are; does this friction cause any real problems? Thanks for the info!

 

[DHMag]

i do my own alignments so i dont worry about re-aligning the camber plates. but yes, you can. but, if you have the entire weight of the vehicle on the ground, realignment will be more difficult.

 

[Brian Smith]

alignment?

What sort of equipment do you have that you are able to do alignments yourself? I have been sending my car to this local a$$ clown to do my alignments for like 50 a pop. I dont trust him, and he treats me like I am an idiot. If I could do my own alignments I would be completely free of any outside mechanical help other than tire mounting!

 

[DHMag]

there is an alignment tool you can buy, but i dont recall the name of it. search under my user name and look for a topic titled DIY Alignments. it costs like 150 for the basic gauge. fairly cheap if you do plan on doing a lot of suspension/steering work.

as for the tools i use currently. #4 string (20 ft), plumb bob, tape measure, and essential hand tools for loosening/tightening of TREs and strut mounts. doing it this way is a bit time consuming but its set the way i like it.

right now, im running -2.75* camber on front, -2* camber on rear (with aftermarket adjustable control arms), 1/32" toe in on front, 0 toe on rear. with the car lowered 2" all around and on 215/55/16 tires, my treadwear is even and there is no cupping/feathering.

 

[Brian Smith]

Thanks Dale!