Fox T-Bird/Cougar Forums

Marketplace => Vendor's Section => Topic started by: EricCoolCats on December 21, 2004, 08:53:35 AM

Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 21, 2004, 08:53:35 AM
Okay, I've been keeping everyone in suspense for a few weeks now. It's time for the big reveal.

There are now full sets of uppers and lowers for the Cougar/Thunderbird chassis available from CHE Performance. The owner, Chuck, contacted me out of the blue in early November 2004 about making them. His dad has a Turbo Coupe, and CHE already makes uppers and lowers for Mustangs, so this cost nothing for engineering. All the specs are in par--or better--than the Maximum Motorsports lowers. But the best news is the price: we're talking around $200 U.S. for the complete SET.

I know your appetite is whetted now...check them out here:

http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/prodInfo.asp?pid=77&cid=9

If you mention the promo code COOLCATS during checkout you will receive another 10% off your order. Right now there's a photo of my car, but he's putting photos of the actual arms here very soon.

Obviously this is one hell of a deal, and I have the honor of receiving the first set made here very soon. Of course I'll report my experience with them at that time, but from the looks of things we've got ourselves an excellent choice for suspension components now.

Please let me know your thoughts....we need feedback.
Thanks all, and Merry Christmas! ;)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Tbird232ci on December 21, 2004, 09:02:10 AM
its both upper and lowers for 200?!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: crystal on December 21, 2004, 09:26:29 AM
Waiting on your feedback Eric.

If you give the good word, I'll pick up a set real quick since I was planning on spending a ton more on this over the winter anyway.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Chuck W on December 21, 2004, 09:53:37 AM
Gee...it's a good thing his last name is different :p  I sell my 2.3T motor mounts under CWE Products ...

Anyway....they look about par for the course.  The bushings are interesting.  I wonder what durometer the poly is?  Decent price for a set of arms.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Ifixyawata on December 21, 2004, 10:15:30 AM
How long before the price goes up to "normal" range again?
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 21, 2004, 10:25:22 AM
I'm pretty sure this is the normal price, Brian. He's given no indication that the pricing will go up. This is the real deal yo. And that is pricing for uppers AND lowers.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on December 21, 2004, 10:29:18 AM
Quote from: EricCoolCats

Please let me know your thoughts....we need feedback.
Thanks all, and Merry Christmas! ;)


OK, sounds like a good deal. I do have a feedback question and a request.

1. I see that the poly/delrin bushing is supposed to have a low enough durometer polyurethane piece to prevent binding. It sounds like a good idea, I'm just curious how much testing/info is available showing that the binding forces are minimized by this design. This can be provided offline to me if wanted.

2. I was hoping to get a weight-jacker type of arm where the height of the car could be adjusted to allow for the 28" (275/60/15) tires I am using when I go to the track. I could also compensate for the characteristic sag in the rear. Actually a fixed height boost (3/4 - 1"?) may work to fix both situations - could a taller spring mount be added? This is kinda a big deal to me.

Is the sway bar mounted in the stock spot or is it a lot lower?
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: crystal on December 21, 2004, 10:40:04 AM
Quote from: Cougar5.0

2. I was hoping to get a weight-jacker type of arm where the height of the car could be adjusted to allow for the 28" (275/60/15) tires I am using when I go to the track. I could also compensate for the characteristic sag in the rear. Actually a fixed height boost (3/4 - 1"?) may work to fix both situations - could a taller spring mount be added? This is kinda a big deal to me.

I run 275 60 15's as a daily tire in good weather on my 85. If you were to run those on a track just in a straight line, they will not rub.
 
The only times I have problems are on bumpy roads and/or with people in the back. I put those coil spring twists out back and that solved the bump problem. Still can't put people in back though.

There's always these too http://maximummotorsports.com/rrha.asp Probably gonna put a set in my car.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on December 21, 2004, 10:59:22 AM
Quote from: crystal
I run 275 60 15's as a daily tire in good weather on my 85. If you were to run those on a track just in a straight line, they will not rub.
 
The only times I have problems are on bumpy roads and/or with people in the back. I put those coil spring twists out back and that solved the bump problem. Still can't put people in back though.

There's always these too http://maximummotorsports.com/rrha.asp Probably gonna put a set in my car.


You are correct that they don't rub unless I hit a decent dip in the road. I'm not too comfortable having my soft-sidewall and expensive M/T drag radialshiznitting the fender lip under any cirspoogestances though. I do drive the 15 miles to the track and I sometimes leave the DR's on for a while between track appearances within a week's period (I'm lazy  :grinno: ).

I've seen those MM pieces but I gotta tell ya - for $139 I'd just as soon weld up my own permanent extensions onto the new control arms!!  :slap: Be even better to pay the CHE guy to do it for me though!  :)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 21, 2004, 11:01:43 AM
I'm sure CHE could make them....one of the things I'm planning on asking once he delivers the initial set.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: crystal on December 21, 2004, 11:11:14 AM
Quote from: Cougar5.0
You are correct that they don't rub unless I hit a decent dip in the road. I'm not too comfortable having my soft-sidewall and expensive M/T drag radialshiznitting the fender lip under any cirspoogestances though. I do drive the 15 miles to the track and I sometimes leave the DR's on for a while between track appearances within a week's period (I'm lazy  :grinno: ).

I've seen those MM pieces but I gotta tell ya - for $139 I'd just as soon weld up my own permanent extensions onto the new control arms!!  :slap: Be even better to pay the CHE guy to do it for me though!  :)

Cool, just didn't know if you'd done it already or not and figured I'd hand off the info I had
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: TrickFlow347 on December 21, 2004, 11:25:00 AM
Let me know how they work for you and definatly work on getting adjustables available!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on December 21, 2004, 03:04:54 PM
Quote from: crystal
Cool, just didn't know if you'd done it already or not and figured I'd hand off the info I had


Yes, much appreciated :) - I was a bit surprised that someone else had experience with this tire size. I am actually considering getting a set of street tires in the 28" diameter for the rear because I really like the way the car drives (less vibration) on the highway (I have 3.73:1 gears).

Eric - I'm looking forward to your future posts on this subject!  :D
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: andrew beedle on December 21, 2004, 06:12:21 PM
Sounds like a good price but unfortunatly I am almost done building my own. Mine have sherical bearings on both ends. I made the connecting tubes 1.5" with .25" wall thickness. I basically replicated these.  I have solidworks model and prints for everything. http://www.bmrfabrication.com/Mustang.htm
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Sancho on December 21, 2004, 07:11:31 PM
I guess I shouldn't have bought those axle relocation brackets...maybe I can use them in conjunction.  I take it these are tubular stock replacments (thats how Im reading it, just looking for confirmation), and therefore dont change the perch at all?  Unlike the adjustable MM ones.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: JeremyB on December 21, 2004, 08:28:10 PM
Don't poly UCA bushings increase bind durings turns a good bit?
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 22, 2004, 01:57:35 PM
I dug up a little info on the bushings on CHE's site:

http://www.cheperformance.com/Tech/CHE_Poly_Delrin_Bushing_Tech.pdf
http://www.cheperformance.com/Tech/Bushing_Material_Tech.pdf

These are just going to be stock replacements, from all indications. But like I said, once they're delivered I'll check into other things (adjustable perches, extensions, etc.). I'm sure if there's enough demand for add-ons then they'll make them. Then again, I'm sure CHE wants to see how these sell first.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 23, 2004, 08:57:40 AM
Ok, photos are up here:
http://www.cheperformance.com/CartGenie/prodInfo.asp?pid=77&cid=9

Chuck also wanted me to pass along some more info to you:

SPRING PERCHES: "Just finished up looking through the forums, and see that there are a few questions. First off, whatever they want made, we can do it.  The only thing I ask for is a little time to fabricate (2-3 weeks) and a down payment of about 50% just to make sure that they are serious. As far as the bushings go, they are 90A durometer and give good road feel without being too harsh."

BUSHINGS: "We make our own bushings, so if somebody wants a softer ride, we can make a lower durometer bushing for them."

PRICING: "I am going to keep the pricing where it is at now probably until at least the end of January.  I have been doing some number crunching and unfortunately I think that we will have to raise our prices slightly in the near future, as steel prices have soared recently.  It will not be anything drastic, maybe $10-20 at most."

Feel free to drop Chuck a line via his site with any questions. He's really bending over backwards for us and is willing to accommodate anything for Cougar/T-Bird owners. Thanks all!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: chrome302jr on December 23, 2004, 09:29:22 PM
Eric I am in the process of gathering suspension parts for my project car. Would these be suitable for dedicated drag use? I plan on running a DTS 8.8 33spline rear, PA C4, Procharged Dart blocked Forged Eagle 347 setup. I will spare the details now :evilgrin:  but would seriously consider these control arms. I have money waiting so let me know. Thx

Ronnie
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 24, 2004, 01:13:05 AM
Hey Ronnie, what's up! They can make the bushings to your specs...go for it. I'd say maybe call and explain first, and see what you can both come up with. Since they do this for Mustangs I don't see why it wouldn't apply to our cars as well.

Nice plans you have there too. ;)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: chrome302jr on December 24, 2004, 12:20:51 PM
Thx Eric, I will givem a call after the holidays.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on December 24, 2004, 01:46:27 PM
Holy ...just ordered them yesterday and they got delivered this morning! These pieces are frickin' SWEET man. Can't wait to get them on the car now. Don't even hesitate to order them if you're waiting. W O W.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: TrickFlow347 on December 24, 2004, 02:17:56 PM
Im waiting for your comments on performance and the adjustables! They look nice in the picts!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: V8Demon on December 24, 2004, 05:40:45 PM
Just ordered them this afternoon after reading up on em and hopefully I'll have em in within a week of my receiving them.  Hopefully my wheel hop will disappear.  Hey Eric any idea of the weight difference between these and the stock pieces? I'm sure I'll be shedding a few pounds, but I'd like to know how much if possible
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: CHE Performance on December 25, 2004, 01:12:33 AM
Hey guys. 
Thanks for all of the interest on the control arms.  You all seem like a tremendous group of individuals.

Just wanted to post a few things to give you a little information about us and to answer a couple questions.

I began this company with the intention of providing high quality performance parts to enthusiasts such as yourselves at prices that were affordable.  I was disappointed by the current prices of high quality suspension and performance parts, and even more disappointed at the pieces of  that were affordable.

I have been making Mustang parts for over a year now, but I hold the Thunderbirds and Cougars very dear to my heart.

I was lucky enough to to have open access to my Father's TurboCoupe as soon as I acquired my driver's liscense.  Or maybe I should say that my Father was naive enough to trust me with his car.  Let's just say that I can attest to the fact that there are many back roads near my Parent's place (not far from where EricCoolCats lives) that you can get all 4 wheels off of the ground.

Now that I have matured, I realize that it is quite amazing that the car survived both me and my younger brother.  I will try to submit some photos of it, but right now it is up in Erie buried under a foot of snow.

Anyway, the feedback and support from you guys has be great and much appreciated.  We are commited to providing you guys with the goods that you are going to need to overtake that punk in the Mustang that thinks he is hot shiznit.  Just give us a little bit of time and support.  Hell, you waited 20 years, what's a few more months?

Whoever sent me the email about the adjustable lowers, I have been unable to send your response because it keeps coming back to me.  Just drop me a line and give me a few more details about what kind of adjustment you want, length, spring perch, both or something different.

We will get the sets out to those of you who have already ordered by the middle of next week, so hopefully they will be there in time for you to get them installed next weekend.

Please keep the ideas coming, and try to dream big.

Thanks, and Merry Christmas,
Chuck
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 1FSTCAT on December 27, 2004, 12:51:29 PM
I'm interested in a set with adjustment, as well. It would be awesome if you could make them in stock, up to about  1-1/2" - 2" lift. That would be perfect!

At the very least, I need to have 3/4" spring spacers added, I see Global West sells those, albeit not cheap (at almost $60 a pair!).

I am sure the adjustability would benefit your Mustang arms as well.

Keep us up-to-date on the changes being offered. We appreciate your attention!

 --Ed
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Chuck W on December 27, 2004, 01:06:30 PM
Some sort of height adjustment would probably be a good idea for an option.  Alot of the folks who lower their Fox Tbirds/Cougars use the Mustang stuff, and alot of the times wind up with a dragging ass end depending on what springs they use. Also since most of these cars sit low on one side or another anyway, having some height adjustment can help correct that as well.

They are nice looking pieces and I'd be interested in a set myself if I didn't already have 2 sets I made for myself whan I was at KB's and an IRS I am working on for my '83... 

Chuck....no not that Chuck...this Chuck....
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: CHE Performance on December 27, 2004, 01:10:19 PM
Sounds like most everybody wants ride height adjustment.

It also seems that everybody just wants to raise ride height, not lower.  If that is the case, we can manufacture control arms with an adjustable spring seat that will go from stock height, to about 1-1/2" or so.

Because they will not lower the vehicle, the design will be quite a bit simpler than lowering styles, and therefore cheaper for you all.

Please let me know what you think.  We will work on getting a prototype set done this week so that you have something to look at.

Chuck
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 1FSTCAT on December 27, 2004, 01:19:44 PM
Schweet!!

Looking forward to it, Chuck!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on December 28, 2004, 11:37:37 AM
I'm looking forward to seeing these new pieces. Adjustable up only is fine with me BTW. These will be simpler/lighter and just as strong or stronger than a non-adjustable piece. Put me on the list for these as soon as they are available  :grinno: .

Quote from: CHE Performance
Sounds like most everybody wants ride height adjustment.

It also seems that everybody just wants to raise ride height, not lower.  If that is the case, we can manufacture control arms with an adjustable spring seat that will go from stock height, to about 1-1/2" or so.

Because they will not lower the vehicle, the design will be quite a bit simpler than lowering styles, and therefore cheaper for you all.

Please let me know what you think.  We will work on getting a prototype set done this week so that you have something to look at.

Chuck
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: nirvanagod on December 28, 2004, 11:45:02 AM
Are these able to be powdercoated in black? Checked the site and didn't see it as an option  :dunno: .
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: CHE Performance on December 28, 2004, 11:54:25 AM
The control arms are available in just about any color that you would like.  We could even put an Autobots logo on them for you if you really wanted  :)

We have some of our custom colors listed on our site that you can see if you click on the "Custom Colors" link under the Information header on the left navigation bar.

If you don't see the color that you want there, please let us know what you are looking for, we have access to hundreds of powder colors.

The black is not listed in the custom colors because it is the stock color for the Mustang arms, but it is available.  It is a very high gloss Mirror Black.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Ifixyawata on December 28, 2004, 12:51:50 PM
Am I correct in assuming that the up-adjustment is for allowing easy use of the Mustang rear coils that usually sag the rear end too much (like in Ed 1FSTCAT's car, for example?)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: CHE Performance on December 28, 2004, 01:22:17 PM
That, and they will also allow for putting larger diameter wheels on at the drag strip.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: shame302 on December 28, 2004, 09:08:05 PM
awesome...i just wanted to take a chance here and say thanks. these are just what we needed. as soon as there are rears with adjustable perches im so in...maby in something like a sour apple green?....thanks again...john
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Bird351 on December 28, 2004, 09:41:52 PM
Vote for sticky!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 1FSTCAT on December 29, 2004, 04:19:01 PM
Don't mean to stray too much, but I'd like to correct "Ifixyawater". :)

I have Motorsport Turbocoupe lowering springs in mine. Yes, they sit too low, yes, I need this to correct that. Even in my stock picture below, the car sat lower in the rear than in the front..

In addition, others have mentioned twisting that occurs to a car with way too much power, which these could help with.

Many stock spring'd Cougars and Tbirds suffer from rearward sag. This would be beneficial for those guys, as well.

Ever tow anything with your Cougar/Tbird? There's another reason. :)

 --Ed
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Ifixyawata on December 29, 2004, 04:22:19 PM
Ed, thanks for clarifying.  There's finally an easy way to level the ride height that isn't air shocks.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on December 29, 2004, 04:29:47 PM
Yeah, my cat sags over 5/8" in the rear with essentially no suspension mods in 17 years (just new shocks/struts). I have to wonder how much I'm losing when I launch at the track and I have to look slightly to the left and down to see straight down the track! This is with a locking rear end and 28" drag radials that stick good. Can you say "twistoflex"!

Edit - Oh, and this is with full-length subframe connectors as well!

Quote from: 1FSTCAT
Don't mean to stray too much, but I'd like to correct "Ifixyawater". :)

I have Motorsport Turbocoupe lowering springs in mine. Yes, they sit too low, yes, I need this to correct that. Even in my stock picture below, the car sat lower in the rear than in the front..

In addition, others have mentioned twisting that occurs to a car with way too much power, which these could help with.

Many stock spring'd Cougars and Tbirds suffer from rearward sag. This would be beneficial for those guys, as well.

Ever tow anything with your Cougar/Tbird? There's another reason. :)

 --Ed
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 50tbrd88 on December 31, 2004, 04:26:37 PM
I'm totally in on ordering a set of the adjustable ones once they get going.  This is exciting stuff...finally some suspension pieces for our cars.  I just installed lowering springs with my new 8.8 and man does it sag in the ass end with one side lower than the other.  If I had a set of adjustable control arms it would help me out a ton!  I am wondering what other parts might be in the pipeline for our cars from CHE?
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: crystal on January 01, 2005, 09:19:47 AM
Eric brought his set to the Cleveland area with him when I was in OH this past week and WOW, they're definately nice.

As soon as the adjustables are done, I'm definately in!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Nate on January 02, 2005, 03:35:11 AM
yes, as soon as i see the adjustable height ones, im in to. might even buy 2 sets :p
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: CHE Performance on January 07, 2005, 12:20:04 AM
We have a working model completed for our adjustable perch lower control arms.

CHE Adjustable Ride Height Lower Control Arms (http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/prodList.asp?scat=30)

If anybody has any questions or comments, good or bad, please feel free to drop us an e-mail at info@cheperformance.com (info@cheperformance.com)

Thanks again everyone,
Chuck
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on January 07, 2005, 12:23:45 AM
Check it out! The adjustables are here! http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/prodInfo.asp?pid=103&cid=9

(http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/images/large/CHE1G.gif)

Adjustable uppers too!

(http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/images/large/CHE2B_C.jpg)

I'm excited!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 50tbrd88 on January 08, 2005, 06:51:07 PM
I couldnt take it anymore.  Ordered me a set of adjustable lowers tonight.  Oh yeah...I'm super psyched to finally get my ass-end leveled out.  Can't wait to see what they look like.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on January 09, 2005, 11:42:40 PM
I just got to see the adjustable lowers (prototype) in real life. Wow, those are trick. Not even the Mustang adjustable lowers have a setup like this. CHE even machines the spanner tool too. :) If you think you want adjustable lowers, then you do....don't hesitate. CHE is going the extra yard to make these very special and very durable for our cars.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Tbird232ci on January 10, 2005, 12:53:43 AM
this is freaking awesome, my pants are tight
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Ifixyawata on January 10, 2005, 01:07:35 AM
Ok, not to beat a dead horse, but... let's say I get a set with adjustable lowers.  I could then purchase most any fox mustang coil kit and use the adjustment to make up for the sag that may be caused by the too-soft rear stang spring?
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Bird351 on January 10, 2005, 02:37:54 AM
Quote from: Tbird232ci
this is freaking awesome, my pants are tight


What does your infatuation with Dare have to do with this? :p

Yep, I'd definitely consider getting two sets of the adjustables (one for each Bird) when I can afford it. Might not even be all that long of a wait.. (until I can afford them)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Chuck W on January 10, 2005, 07:02:23 AM
Quote from: Ifixyawata
Ok, not to beat a dead horse, but... let's say I get a set with adjustable lowers.  I could then purchase most any fox mustang coil kit and use the adjustment to make up for the sag that may be caused by the too-soft rear stang spring?



Yes and no.  It might help w/ the ride height issue, but the load rating may still be too soft (as in the C-kits), but you should still be able to make better use of them if you can make adjustments.  It really depends on how much you need to compensate.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on January 10, 2005, 09:29:26 AM
I ordered my set already - can't wait to have a level car! Maybe my car will go straight ahead when I dump the clutch at the track as well :D
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 1FSTCAT on January 10, 2005, 12:56:05 PM
Just ordered mine today. Thanks a bunch, for a great value Eric, and Chuck!

 --Ed
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: foxford on January 10, 2005, 02:33:29 PM
A godsend, as soon as I find some good spring perches to convert to coil springs, I'm getting a set, hopefully by next week. I want to say a special thanks to Eric and Chuck for making these a reallity, now I can stop buying uppers for a Chevelle. Thank you thank you thank you, also for making this post a sticky
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: V8Demon on January 11, 2005, 01:58:59 PM
Just drove the Demon with The control arms installed.  Wheel hop GONE!!!!  Stiffer ride too when going over bumps and minor potholes.  Not too aggresive, just about right.  Behold my old spring seats.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on January 11, 2005, 02:55:20 PM
Quote from: Paul Flockhart
Just drove the Demon with The control arms installed.  Wheel hop GONE!!!!  Stiffer ride too when going over bumps and minor potholes.  Not too aggresive, just about right.  Behold my old spring seats.


Hehe - yeah, I ordered new spring isolators too :D
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: gt40pcat on January 11, 2005, 08:37:08 PM
Man!Those are AWESOME!!! As soon as i finish upgrading my drivetrain i'm starting on my suspension.I will be ordering a set of these.Do they have front suspension components available as well?If so i will also be interested in them.
Thanks for the site and all the hard work involved in this board, 
          Ya'll are all AWESOME!      GT40pCat
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Nate on January 15, 2005, 08:13:43 PM
ok if i order the adjustable lowers? do i get the adjustable uppers with them? or regular uppers? or just lowers? i would like to get both uppers and lowers but i dont know how much it will be
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: David on January 18, 2005, 10:24:52 PM
Any word on shipping?  I ordered mine last week, haven't heard anything...

Just curious
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: TrickFlow347 on January 20, 2005, 10:15:45 AM
My adjustables have been "pending" since the 8th so its been 12 days. It said to allow 2-3 weeks so Im waiting
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on January 20, 2005, 10:39:05 AM
Chuck at CHE told me they're making a run of our parts but that they're busy all around right now. Soon as the run is done, they'll be shipped.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on January 24, 2005, 10:50:22 PM
Yeah, mine have been pending since the 7th - good thing I'm not in a hurry to install them! I do want to look at them - perhaps set them next to me in bed and admire them :D
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: martin0660 on January 26, 2005, 07:05:20 PM
I order the basic upper and lower set on Sunday, and got a e-mail that they shipped today  :grinno:

Thanks to CHE for making these available, and to Eric for helping this along. I cant wait to get them installed.

Bob Myers
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: David on January 27, 2005, 03:41:32 PM
Quote from: martin0660
I order the basic upper and lower set on Sunday, and got a e-mail that they shipped today  :grinno:

Thanks to CHE for making these available, and to Eric for helping this along. I cant wait to get them installed.

Bob Myers


Must be nice, I ordered a set of standard Uppers on the 10th, and I'm still pending...  Nothing adjustable about them...

 :dunno:

He sure did charge my credit card pretty quickly though...
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: martin0660 on January 27, 2005, 05:39:21 PM
Quote from: David
Must be nice, I ordered a set of standard Uppers on the 10th, and I'm still pending...  Nothing adjustable about them...


I dunno, mine came today....Very Nice  :grinno:

I'm hoping to finnally find some traction.

Bob Myers
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: David on January 27, 2005, 09:35:25 PM
:shakehead

Any word on these?  2 weeks is a bit much for the non-adjustable ones... Maybe the adjustable I could understand...

 :sleep:
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Ifixyawata on January 28, 2005, 01:27:28 AM
I was under the assumption these were made to order.  I'm saying maybe they aren't all stocked up on 'em?  I dunno.  I haven't the cash for 'em yet anyway.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: David on January 29, 2005, 09:47:01 PM
Maybe he took all the money and ran with it...
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on January 31, 2005, 12:32:27 AM
Got the drop-ship part of my order - I assume he's making up a batch of arms for us!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: David on February 02, 2005, 08:23:28 AM
Quote from: David
Maybe he took all the money and ran with it...

 Gave him a call and we got everything all worked out...  Apparently my order slipped into the wrong pile. 

Thanks for fixing the problem :)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 1FSTCAT on February 02, 2005, 08:49:47 AM
Haven't heard anything on my order from the 10th. Hopefully they're in process?

 --Ed
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: TrickFlow347 on February 02, 2005, 01:33:18 PM
Mine were shipped out today! :)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Nate on February 03, 2005, 01:29:38 AM
mine shipped today as well... estimated arival date. 2-4-05 payday baby :grinno:  time to kick ass and chew bubble gum, and im all outa gum :2gunsfiri
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 1FSTCAT on February 03, 2005, 08:29:39 AM
LOL. Just got the confirmation on mine, as well. Can't wait to see them!

 --Ed
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: TrickFlow347 on February 04, 2005, 02:58:43 PM
I just got them!! :grinno:  Candy red, I cant wait to get them on my car.

Order a set, you wont be dissapointed! :ies:
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Nate on February 04, 2005, 10:18:31 PM
me to, woooo!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 50tbrd88 on February 08, 2005, 08:49:19 AM
Put mine in last night.  The right side of my car sagged an inch lower than the left and the rear sat an inch lower on both sides in the back.  Sits completely level now.  You have to take your time and do the math when adjusting the stud for the spring perch but other than that it was an easy mod.  Right now I've got a pretty good "rake" on the car but it should be pretty easy to lower it down if I feel like it!  So far I'm impressed. :grinno:
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on February 08, 2005, 10:20:34 AM
Quote from: 50tbrd88
Put mine in last night.  The right side of my car sagged an inch lower than the left and the rear sat an inch lower on both sides in the back.  Sits completely level now.  You have to take your time and do the math when adjusting the stud for the spring perch but other than that it was an easy mod.  Right now I've got a pretty good "rake" on the car but it should be pretty easy to lower it down if I feel like it!  So far I'm impressed. :grinno:


I got mine yesteday too  :banana: I can't wait to put 'em in - no more worrying about sing my expensive drag radials on the fender when I go to the track -  :spit: And my car will sit level again with my normal street radials - WOOHOO!!
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 1FSTCAT on February 14, 2005, 04:24:01 PM
Here's a pic of the arms I received. They look great, I can't thank Chuck enough for his service!!

(http://www.houseofmoser.com/ebay/chearms.jpg)

I'll get them installed eventually, when the car comes back from the body shop! They're the Candy Blue color, BTW!

 --Ed
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: zpyro on February 15, 2005, 03:53:52 AM
Quote from: 1FSTCAT
(http://www.houseofmoser.com/ebay/chearms.jpg)


, that's shagy  :ies:
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: zpyro on March 13, 2005, 04:38:51 PM
Quote from: zpyro
, that's shagy  :ies:

so shagy I just bought some :D
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: zpyro on March 19, 2005, 04:46:18 PM
just wondering, are these specific to the Tbirds/cougars for some reason? or would they fit other fox bodies?
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: CHE Performance on March 19, 2005, 06:55:58 PM
The length of the control arms is specific to the T-Bird & Cougar.  They will only fit Fox Bodies utilizing the same length upper & lower control arms.  If you are looking for this particular design for a Mustang for instance they will be different, however we can make them.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: zpyro on March 20, 2005, 10:31:00 PM
ah I see, I didn't know Tbirds and Stangs had diff. length control arms, I thought they were all the same
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: zpyro on March 28, 2005, 02:47:19 PM
well got em in today. they look really nice, kinda sucks that I'm getting a Mustang and these won't fit it
(http://img181.exs.cx/img181/6305/dsc007251ba.th.jpg) (http://img181.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img181&image=dsc007251ba.jpg)
(http://img181.exs.cx/img181/6554/dsc007271jh.th.jpg) (http://img181.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img181&image=dsc007271jh.jpg)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: V8Demon on March 28, 2005, 02:57:40 PM
I know you got a stang, but does that mean the Coug will be leaving you?
Either way THESE will fit the stang:http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/prodInfo.asp?pid=7&cid=2
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: zpyro on March 28, 2005, 03:02:52 PM
well I don't have the $ to keep both cars running and insure them both
and it's a tbird :p
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: V8Demon on March 28, 2005, 03:22:51 PM
Quote
it's a tbird


 :crazy:  :brick:  :bricks1:  :toilet:

Yup! I'm a DOPE! :D

You could always contact CHE and see if you can swap them with the mustang pieces.....
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: zpyro on March 28, 2005, 03:27:54 PM
yeah but chuck's been such a great guy i don't want to ask too much of em :p if they really won't fit I'll look into it but who knows
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: EricCoolCats on May 02, 2005, 02:26:15 PM
Just an update...I finally installed my CHE arms last week. As you may know I got the very first completed set but am probably the last to install them. :)

Previous rear suspension consisted of stock uppers; Saleen/Racecraft square tube lowers; Moog cargo coils; Tenneco/Monroe quads; and Bilstein T-Bird/Cougar shocks (now discontinued). I kept everything else but changed the uppers and lowers (I am keeping the quad shocks, too, because I need help with torque transfer in this particular car). Oh, I also found that the spring isolators were shot so I got some Energy Suspension ones from Summit.

The CHE arms fit like a dream...zero effort installation. Didn't even use a rubber mallet on them. The bolt kit made everything seem like a factory install too; that's great hardware. On a 50-mile road test the car handled great. Granted, I didn't push it, but I swear it softened up the ride while keeping it very compliant. Impressive, to say the least.

One area that needed addressed was the metal brackets that hold the e-brake cables away from the tires. I'm using stock 1994 Mustang brackets. On those cars the brackets bolted to a sway bar mounting hole...no biggie. On my old setup, the square Saleen lowers were perfect: drill a hole in the side, use a self-tapping screw, it's all good. With the round CHE arms, though, this proved to be a challenge. I'm using prototype spacers that Chuck made on the fly. Passenger side was perfect. Driver's side will require something different. We're working on a more permanent and slicker solution so stay tuned. For those people that have disc brake rear ends, this will become an important issue.

Thanks so much for the hard work Chuck! Your efforts have paid off and you're a class-act guy.

Oh, here's the spacer I'm talking about:
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Cougar5.0 on July 05, 2005, 03:13:43 PM
No, I'm the last person to install them. I got the adjustable lowers & fixed uppers. I still haven't installed the uppers yet but I got the lowers on last night. I don't know why I had so much trouble with the rear-end rotating, but I thought I was going to collapse with exhaustion trying to get the holes to line up - what a painstaking experience it turned out to be for me. That aside, the arms are awsome! The car sits nice & high in the back again and the frickin' annoying canary I heard every time I either pressed or let-off the gas is gone! The car handles real nice - almost seems to spin a little easier in corners now because there is much less slack in the system. The road feel is better with cracks in the pavement a little bit more noticable than before - not bad mind you and I'm a fussy person WRT noise. Adjusting the spring height more than a small amount once they are installed can be quite a c (as described in the CHE instruction sheet). This is because of the 14 threads per inch bolt - I actually like the finer adjustment and effort to turn the adjuster has to be easier this way. Anyway, aside form some issues I had installing them (which has nothing to do with the control arms BTW), I am very happy with these pieces. Now to rotate the one spring I forgot to remember the orientation of before I removed it - it's 180 degrees out of where it should be and is making that side of the car .5" taller than the other side - DOH!!  :rollin:
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Bird351 on September 26, 2005, 02:05:18 PM
Question-slash-thread bump: (since it doesn't show up on the default 1-month search)

Will these also work for A) The Mark VII, and B) a Fairmont/Zephyr?

My Mark's ass end is sagging even with a brand new set of springs. (it has been converted from air suspension)
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Chuck W on September 26, 2005, 02:29:52 PM
The F/Z's have the same rear arms as a Mustang....

If you have nuked the air suspension on the Mk7, then the arm lengths are the same as the T/C's
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Bird351 on September 26, 2005, 03:03:22 PM
I didn't nuke it.. someone did before I bought it.. so I have no idea what's what back there.
Title: Re: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: shame302 on October 04, 2005, 04:40:20 PM
are we still getting a discount on these?
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: motormenace on October 19, 2005, 04:22:14 PM
Quote from: Chuck W
The F/Z's have the same rear arms as a Mustang....

If you have nuked the air suspension on the Mk7, then the arm lengths are the same as the T/C's


same lenth, but not the same thing. there is no mount for the air bag in the tbird/cougar arms. now i know maximum motorsports or HPM does the ones for the mark VII.
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Chuck W on October 19, 2005, 04:52:17 PM
Quote from: motormenace
same lenth, but not the same thing. there is no mount for the air bag in the tbird/cougar arms. now i know maximum motorsports or HPM does the ones for the mark VII.



Thus the "If you've nuked the air suspension" comment ;)

From his previous posts I gathered it was converted to springs....thus saying the TBird control arms would work.  Most aftermarket upper arms don't have a provision for the height sensor either...
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Thunder Chicken on January 07, 2006, 11:35:45 PM
So, to resurrect an old but important thread, a few questions:

1) Are these still available (adjustable lowers, fixed uppers) and
2) How 'bout shipping to Canada?

Having finally gotten my hands on a TC it's time to seriously upgrade the T-Bird's suspension. I'm thinking the adjustable lowers, fixed uppers, and the energy suspension front control arm bushings, rack bushings, and spring isolators.

On a somewhat related note, anyone  got an opinion on boxing the front control arms? Would the added strength be worth the increased weight?
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: JeremyB on January 07, 2006, 11:59:04 PM
Quote from: Thunder Chicken
On a somewhat related note, anyone  got an opinion on boxing the front control arms? Would the added strength be worth the increased weight?

I think it would be a waste of time/money. The front control arms rarely break. The extra stiffness isn't needed.
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: shame302 on January 08, 2006, 01:51:54 AM
and looking at them (the fronts), they are a pretty rugged unit. id stay away from poly in the front arms.
 
 when you order the che arms dont forget too use the coolcats discount ;)
 
if your not in a rush, i may end up having too sell my 03 cobra arms. its going too be awhile though befor i know.
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Thunder Chicken on January 13, 2006, 08:32:58 PM
I'm not in a rush, but what advantage would 03 Cobra arms have over stock T-Bird arms? Would they even work with the stock T-Bird k-member and TC spindles? You'll have to forgive my ignorance - electronics is my specialty, I don't do much suspension work...
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Tbird232ci on January 13, 2006, 08:48:21 PM
the 03 cobra's have more clearance for wider tires, so you can keep your turning radius when using say a 9" front wheel, theyre the same length as the 87-88 thunderbirds, and the only real PITA is the balljoint, unless you go SN95 spindle
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: JeremyB on January 13, 2006, 08:54:07 PM
The high points are pointed out on MM's page (http://"http://www.maximummotorsports.com/fordcontrolarm.asp"), namely:

Stiffer rubber bushings
Improved turning radius from a revised stamping
"low" friction ball joints
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Thunder Chicken on January 13, 2006, 08:57:36 PM
Quote from: Tbird232ci
so you can keep your turning radius when using say a 9" front wheel

Turning radius? What is that? ;) Christ, every time I'm in a parking lot I start thinking of that old country song "Gimme 40 acres and I'll turn this thing around..."

So what is the PITA with the ball joint? Can't be made to work with TC spindles at all?
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: Ether947 on January 14, 2006, 11:07:52 AM
Quote from: Thunder Chicken
So what is the PITA with the ball joint? Can't be made to work with TC spindles at all?

http://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?t=5563
Title: CHE Performance Uppers/Lowers
Post by: 87badbird2613 on January 14, 2006, 01:19:36 PM
a really big help i found is that moog makes a spring for the rear called a cargo coil.  it has really tightly wound coils at the top to help keep the ride height with weight in the car..