If you’re reading this, you’re no stranger to the all new 2015 Mustang. The S550 is a completely new chassis, and features the first standard IRS suspension on a Mustang ever (previously IRS had been available on 99-04 Cobras only). While some enthusiasts have bemoaned this change, others have embraced the new suspension.
For the last two decades, Factory Five has been offering quality replica cars for a wide range of enthusiasts. A key to the functionality, fun, and affordability of these kits has been the use of Mustang parts, going back to the Fox body era.
Factory Five has also previously offered an independent rear suspension for many of its cars based on the old T-Bird system. This system has worked well, but admittedly its based on rather old technology. Finding T-bird parts is also getting increasingly difficult as more of these cars are crushed, and recycled.
Factory five is constantly working to improve their products. They’re now offering a new independent rear suspension based on the center section from the new 2015 Mustang S550 chassis. This means that owners can opt for a brand new Ford center section, axles, and spindles, purchased through Factory Five, or sourced used from a donor car. The suspension is available with new kit orders and is priced as a $2,499 option. It’s available for use with the MK4 roadster, Type 65 Coupe, and 33 Hot Rod.
Adding this suspension to any Factory Five kit should result in several benefits. First there’s handling, the IRS is going to prove superior to a solid rear axle in almost any cornering situation. There’s also the added benefit of much better ride quality, and possibly even some reduced NVH. The use of this system also opens up an even wider array of brake system options for the rear brakes. Standard ’15 Mustang rear brakes use 13-inch rotors, and the aftermarket will undoubtedly have a slew of upgrades to fit these spindles very soon.
With the availability of the independent rear suspension based on the center section from the 2015 Mustang, Factory five vehicles outfitted this way will be even better than ever.