I've been reading that there are differences in the front susp of 1973 and earlier pintos compared to the 1974 and newer models. I understand that they are not interchangeable but does that mean that the 73 and earlier models are not suitable for use in a street rod?? Could the 73 and earlier components be used with aftermarket crossmembers or are they so different that they are to be avoided?? Some clarification would be appreciated. Thanks.
The early Pintos have clamp-on racks and much smaller brakes. I don't know about the A-frames and lower control arms. These were used in the earliest of conversion using the stock crossmember. The better ones, naturally are the later ones, that is 74-80 Pinto/Bobcat, and 74-78 Mustang II. There still seem to be plenty of these in junkyards even those they've been scrounged heavily since the mid-70s while they were still new cars.
They are completely different. Some drag car companys used 73 and earlier stuff on thier suspensions.
On the 71-73 pintos the upper a-arm is alittle narrower where it bolts to the shock tower, the brake calipers, and spindles are lighter, the tapered hole (in the spindle steering arm) for the outer tie rod end is smaller in dia, the 71-72 rack & pinion is smaller, and mounts are different, the 73 pinto rack & pinion is slightly bigger than the 71-72 rack is but it's smaller than the 74 and up, the 73 rack & pinion mount is weird to it's self. Those are mainly the real big differences from the 74 to 79 pinto / mustang II.
thanks folks....sounds like the earlier ones should be avoided if possible........just talked myself out of what would likely be a $400 mistake.
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