3 points or sub frames?

[mhanksii]

OK, my next add is going to be a chassis stiffener but I can't choose which way to go. What is everyones take on steeda 3 point torque boxes? Are they as good as sub-frame connectors on our cars or would sub frames still be a better option. I am not building an all out racer, in fact 90% of my cars life will be shooting from one stop light to the next.

 

[Redfire 05]

At $10 more the BMR Boxed HD Subframe Connectors are both subframe connectors and torque box stiffeners (which is what the Steeda brace does).

A lot of people will say you don't need subframe connectors because the new cars are 30% stiffer than the older generation cars, and unless you plan on racing your car they are probably right. Having said that, I have full length subframe connectors on my Fox body stang and it is definately stiffer than my 05 stang. I plan on adding the BMR connectors in the future. Partly because I like the feel of the stiffer frame and partly because I do some auto crossing from time to time.

 

[Redfire 05]

I guess I forgot an important point. The BMR piece must be welded on so unless you do it yourself that is an additional cost. Though BMR says it is not necessary to remove your carpet so it should be an easier job than on other cars.

 

[o0Dan0o]

I would go with through floor subframe connectors:

The rectangular frame that the BMR connectors touch on are cut out and replaced with square tubing. After that, add torque boxes to help suspension mounting locations.
Dan

 

[toxicpelican]

I wouldn't worry about subframe connectors on the s197s, both Maximum Motorsports and Griggs state that they arn't necessary on this chassis. Spend your money elsewhere?

 

[retfr8flyr]

I originally was going to install the Steeda braces but when I decided to go with more power I changed and have the BMR connectors. With the plans you state I think the Steeda pieces would be your best bet. If you decide to go Steeda let me know as I still have the pieces and will give you a good price.

Earl

 

[Glenn88lx]

Save your money, the only thing these chassis stiffeners do is improve the bottom line of the vendors and add unnecessary weight to an already heavy car. Furthermore, there is no way in hell a Fox with subframes is stiffer than an S197. I have owned and raced Foxes, SN95's and new edge Mustangs and the S197 has them all beat in chassis stiffness with or without subframes.

If you are going to race they are still a waste, a 6 point roll bar will do much more for chassis stiffness than a SFC ever thought about.

 

[bigcat]

i recall reading that the S197 is stiffer that a fox with a full cage.

take it for what its worth...

 

[SoCal89GT]

Save your money, the only thing these chassis stiffeners do is improve the bottom line of the vendors and add unnecessary weight to an already heavy car. Furthermore, there is no way in hell a Fox with subframes is stiffer than an S197. I have owned and raced Foxes, SN95's and new edge Mustangs and the S197 has them all beat in chassis stiffness with or without subframes.

If you are going to race they are still a waste, a 6 point roll bar will do much more for chassis stiffness than a SFC ever thought about.

+1
The only way that I can see SFC's being worth their while on the S197's is if you are running ridiculous amounts of power and it is through a convertible. And even then, a mild cage will help more purely because of its location.

 

[ruffy]

I have the BMR boxed sub frames, although I have a crappy welding job they work pretty good and I have no complaints. Some people say they are not needed, but if it makes a stiff chassis stiffer then I'm good with it.