Ford Racing "K" springs = $159 from 50resto.com Eibach Camber bolts = $18 Labor = $0 (did it myself) Total cost to lower = ~$180
Is installing the camber bolts something easily done by the naked eye? I haven't understood how people can gauge a 1 degree or less slant of the tire. I guess maybe it is more noticeable visually?!?
When just replacing the top strut bolt with a camber bolt, at full cam contact (pushing outwards on the control arm towards positive camber) you will get 1 degree. Thats all these bolts are good for when used singly. If you use bolts in both holes you can get more but it is not necessary. After lowering (at least for the Ford K springs with a1.5" drop) set the bolt to full positive camber and you are good to go.
It's def something you can do yourself. I have done the front spring swap two ways... With the spring compressor like most do, and also by putting a jack under the lower control arm, taking off the large strut nut and lowering the jack slowly. That will release the tension of the spring and you can then take the strut and spring out, leaving the upper strut mount in place. That works nicely. I also have Ford K Springs ($200) and Eibach Sway Bars (bought from a guy locally that was selling his stang, so I got the sway bars for 100 bucks haha) It does ride a little harsh, but it handles like a mad man.
Installing the camber bolt is no different than reinstalling the factory bolt, but also has a washer. You might be able to get it close by eye, but I'd still pay to have it done professionally.
Well, I would not replace just the springs, you really need to do the shocks and struts also as they are engineered together. See this post for an in-depth discussion of lowering your car. Guide to Properly Lowering your S197 - The Mustang Source I just wanted something basic for my DD and didn't see the need for the Tokico D's - for my driving style. I put on the Steeda UltraLite springs and Pro Action non-adjustable shocks/struts along with Eibach anti-sway bars front and back. Took me a good two days doing this in my driveway/garage. I followed TacoBill's instructions at TacoBill's Hotlinks - The Mustang Source
I guess the real intent of my original question was, if I install the camber bolts and do a "best guess" kind of alignment before taking it into the shop, would they adjust them to get them right? I know maybe that is a question I should ask them.
I wish I had a shop that nice where I live, but since I live in rural WV, the closest thing I could probably get would be a tire shop. My confidence in local car mechanics is not the greatest.
It's tough to find someone else to work on your car. I feel your pain. There is only one paint and body shop and one tire & wheel/alignment shop I'll let touch my car.
I should see if Kooldawg's bodyshop is available for the job, who knows what upgrades I may get out of it.
