Introduction to Control Freak Upgrades for S197

Kamhi responded by sending us a variety of Control Freak products for the S197 platform. These parts included a tubular-steel strut tower brace that installs in under 5 minutes, yet reinforces the Mustang’s body structure to prevent unwanted torsional twist (flex) that will literally pull your tires out of alignment, thus reducing traction. This installation would hardly be exhausting, so the company also sent along an adjustable Panhard bar and matching lower control arms.

Benefits of Adjustable Arms and Panhard Bar

Adjustable arms aren’t new for the S197, but what we really like about the Control Freak design is that both the arms and the Panhard bar feature adjustable turnbuckles that make tuning them a snap. Just loosen the jam nuts on each component, then twist the turnbuckle to alter the part length, and retighten the jam nut—it couldn’t be easier.

Practical Applications and Adjustability

The adjustability built into the Panhard bar makes it easy to re-center the axle under a lowered car (lowering springs will pull the axle to one side, underneath the vehicle), while the control arms allow the user to change pinion angle in order to pick up a bit more traction at the track.

Installation Experience at G&S Custom Fabrication & Suspension

Since no one on the staff presently owns an S197, we went to G&S Custom Fabrication & Suspension, where Greg Blaydes found us a good candidate—a 2008 Mustang GT. As expected, the installation was as simple as Control Freak said it would be—the car was back on the ground in no time, and everything fit with no problems. You should be able to do this same work at home in under two hours, and when you do, drive the car after you’ve completed the installation; you’ll be glad you did—it makes that much difference.

Conclusion: Why It’s Worth Your Time

So, if it’s time you enjoyed working on your car again, and you want to make a difference with time well spent, here’s a great and worthwhile place to start.