Ford 2013 User Manual page 15

MacPherson Strut Front Suspension
• MacPherson strut front suspension uses friction-
reducing geometry for precise handling, incredible
responsiveness and a smooth, comfortable ride
• By mounting the springs in a coil-over-shock
configuration on the strut, the shock absorbers damp
forces in the same direction as the spring, for low
friction and precise shock valve tuning
• High-strength steel combined with coil-over-shock
design allows the use of lightweight springs
• Advanced technologies include a manufacturing
technique that produces reverse-L steel lower control
arms weighing less than some comparable cast
aluminum designs
• The L-shaped lower control arm offers a number
of advantages over classic A-arm or wishbone
suspension components
– System uses a firm hydraulic bushing to control
lateral (side-to-side) motion for quick steering
response. Lateral motion travels through the
shorter, lower leg of the L-arm where it connects
to the chassis
– Softer, more compliant hydraulic bushing is used
to control longitudinal (front and back) motion
and help dampen road shocks. Longitudinal
movements travel through the longer, rear leg of
the L-arm
• Front stabilizer bar with outboard mounting helps
reduce roll, increase stiffness and improve steering
responsiveness
• GT models include a larger 34.6mm (versus 33.2mm
on V6) front stabilizer bar to further help reduce
body roll during hard-cornering maneuvers
• Higher spring rates and shock valving tuned
specifically for GT help to provide responsive
handling characteristics
• When equipped with 19" wheels, Mustang adds a
strut tower brace that helps keep the steering taut
while increasing responsiveness
NOTE: See page 20 for Boss 302-specific
chassis features.
Coupe
Convertible
V6 Performance Package
Brembo Brake Package (Coupe)
TM
Brembo Brake Package (Convertible)
(1) 26.0mm rear stabilizer bar included with Laguna Seca Package.
January 2012
Mustang
Performance/Handling
Chassis
3-link Rear Suspension with Panhard Rod
• Rear suspension design offers precise control of the
rear axle to reduce lateral skate on uneven surfaces
such as railroad tracks
• Central upper control arm fastened to the upper front
end of the differential provides more leverage against
axle windup for smooth, consistent launches
• Trailing arms located near each end of the axle are
designed to help eliminate axle windup
• Tubular panhard rod connects to the axle at one end
and the body at the other
– Stabilizes the axle side-to-side as the wheels move
– Firmly controls the axle during hard cornering
– Allowed designers to have tight tire-to-fender gaps
• Shock absorbers mounted outside the rear structural
rails, located near the wheels:
– Reduce the axle's lever effect
– Allow more precise, slightly softer shock valve tuning
– Provide a smooth, comfortable ride with no loss of
• Rear stabilizer bar uses a body-mounted swing link
design that reduces unsprung weight for improved
ride and handling
• Rear axle jounce bumpers use a separate,
microcellular urethane design allowing advanced
shock tuning for a better ride
• GT models include a 24mm rear stabilizer bar to help
reduce body roll during aggressive cornering
Mustang Stabilizer Bar Diameters
V6
Front/Rear (mm)
33.2/22.0
33.2/22.0
34.6/24.0
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esourcebook.dealerconnection.com
RE&T: 2013 Source Book
through jounce and rebound
and lower overall body
road feel or feedback
GT
Front/Rear (mm)
34.6/24.0
33.2/22.0
—
34.6/24.0
33.2/22.0
2013
Boss 302
Front/Rear (mm)
34.6/25.0
(1)
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15