I am about to convert my 88 LSC over to coil/springs because my front right bag is leaking. I have a perfect 88 Mustang 5.0 to use for donor parts. I read the tech article on how to do this. I understand it and it dosn't seem too hard but I do have a couple questions. The article says to use lower control arms from a 87-88 T-bird Turbo Coupe. Can I use the lower control arms off of the 88 stang or will they not fit right? Also, is it possible to just eliminate the front air bags and leave the rears in working condition. I will eventually eliminate all of the air bags, but time is a problem right now and I want to at LEAST get the fronts fixed. Plus I like how the rear air bags plant the power to the ground without much tire spin/hop. Any help would be appreciated!
Coil spring conversion questions!
- Thread starter Drew4002
- Start date
JoshMcMadMac
Dedicated LVC Member
One air spring can be replaced for about $80. That's less than you'll spend on the conversion, and much quicker. You don't want to use Mustang springs, as the car will not ride well. The Mark VII out weighs a Mustang by ~500lbs and has taller springs to begin with. Using the Mustang springs is a recipe for disaster. You need T-Bird parts to have a satisfactory conversion, period. I think if you spend just a little time you'll find that repairing the air suspension is much cheaper, easier, and comfortable.
xllsc007
Active LVC Member
Don't Do It, U Will Want To Go Back , Watch And See
Yes, true, true. I was thinkin about new bags but I thought they were more expensive than that. Maybe I will just replace them. It seems a lot easier. Does anybody have a good link where I can buy new bags from? Thanx for the help guys!
Go here.
http://www.arnottindustries.com/parts_Lincoln_Mark_VII_7_yid17.html
They have a kit that's made specifically for the Mark VII.
The ride on a proper set of springs is equivelent to the factory air springs. After all, they are springs, just made with rubber and air.
It's only if you go with the wrong springs or end up cutting some. Then ride will suffer.
The fronts work fine with T-Bird control arms. Rears are much more difficult as the perches are a few inches off. I've done a few experiments with the rear springs. But then I enjoy the challenge. Not for everyone.
If you're the mechanic type, go for it and do it right. If not, don't. It's a lot of work. But it's a great mod and peice of mind when done properly.
Another issue is how long you plan to keep the car. There are many reasons to get rid of air springs if you don't have the money for or want to keep up with the various components that can break down over time.
I'll never forget the 3 cars I've seen that litterally burned to the ground due to the air spring system. Quite a sight! However, this is rare.
http://www.arnottindustries.com/parts_Lincoln_Mark_VII_7_yid17.html
They have a kit that's made specifically for the Mark VII.
The ride on a proper set of springs is equivelent to the factory air springs. After all, they are springs, just made with rubber and air.
It's only if you go with the wrong springs or end up cutting some. Then ride will suffer.
The fronts work fine with T-Bird control arms. Rears are much more difficult as the perches are a few inches off. I've done a few experiments with the rear springs. But then I enjoy the challenge. Not for everyone.
If you're the mechanic type, go for it and do it right. If not, don't. It's a lot of work. But it's a great mod and peice of mind when done properly.
Another issue is how long you plan to keep the car. There are many reasons to get rid of air springs if you don't have the money for or want to keep up with the various components that can break down over time.
I'll never forget the 3 cars I've seen that litterally burned to the ground due to the air spring system.
Quite a sight! However, this is rare.LuxurySportCoupe
Well-Known LVC Member
I went with arnott springs, for some reason the rear sat lower, immediately arnott sent me "spacers" This was unacceptable. Finally arnott sent me a set of progressive rate springs. The rear now sits a little higher, which i wanted, has a very subtle rake look.
My opinion, :q:q:q:q the air suspension. Coil it, poly it, stiffen it up, tighten it up with SFC's and swaybars, and laugh at the ricers when you outhandle thier civic with your two ton lincoln, it never gets old.
My opinion, :q:q:q:q the air suspension. Coil it, poly it, stiffen it up, tighten it up with SFC's and swaybars, and laugh at the ricers when you outhandle thier civic with your two ton lincoln, it never gets old.
Ooo-Rah!
Do it! And if you go with the T-Bird rear control arm setup you can use it's fat-ass rear Sway Bar... it's sweeet!
But if you do the Arnott kit, you should consider new poly bushings. That's a hell job, so if you like, buying a set already done is better.
http://www.svpu.com/
Do it! And if you go with the T-Bird rear control arm setup you can use it's fat-ass rear Sway Bar... it's sweeet!
But if you do the Arnott kit, you should consider new poly bushings. That's a hell job, so if you like, buying a set already done is better.
http://www.svpu.com/