Some advice from a (former. as in 2 weeks) suspension noob if you will. Before you buy anything, get un-noobed. I just dropped major bucks to correct a bad choice because I did not know enough before I started. If I would have had a bit more knowledge I would have the cash for my wheels. Nuthin like doing the job twice and paying through the nose for the pleasure. I got educated real fast though!
Here is my education for your benefit. Free even!
Do not drop more than 1.5". If you do your getting into some very edgy front end geometry.
Do use the stock Ford upper strut mounts. They have a good full ball (maybe needle) bearing (Your prob not aware, the front struts rotate on the upper strut mount when you turn the wheels. I would have paid money for that tidbit of info). Do NOT use the SPF camber/caster units as they have a cheap, easily damaged plastic sleeve bearing prone to binding. If you want to drop more than 1.5" then your going to need some pricey aftermarket parts to get your wheels aligned.
IMO > Do spend the money on the SPF adjustable upper rear arms. There solid units. The camber bolts are a cheaper way to go. I tried cheap and it cost me double! If you go for a radical drop your going to need the HPC tubular lower arms for the rear toe and the Capaldi adjustable front upper strut bearings probably. Major dosh! But replacing tires every 6 months is also pricey. Stay at the 1.5" limit and you won't have those worries.
Have your alignment checked before you drop (get a printout). Nice to know where ya been so you can figure out where your going.
Do insure that when you (or a shop) install your springs, that the fronts but up against the end stops on the lower strut spring base. The rears must have the drainage hole clear (not blocked by the spring). Also be sure you know which end of the spring is 'up' before you install.
If you have a shop do the install, be aware that on 05-07 (not sure about 08-09), there going to use an airgun and will over tighten the rear upper shock mounts. Plan on getting back there and loosening them up (and hope they did not destroy them). Also, your going to have to explain to the tech who is doing the alignment about how to adjust any hardware than is not stock. Do NOT assume they know, Or even if they say they do, that they really DO. I caught a tech who 'said' he read the adjustment instructions for my SPF rear upper arms, trying to 'adjust' them with a crowbar. (I am not making this up). Make sure you understand it thoroughly so you can do a 'show and tell'.
If after your new struts, springs and shocks are installed, and your getting some loud creaky or popping noises (especially from the front end), then somethings wrong. Period! But! Do not confuse with some more subdued noises as those will be there for a couple weeks as your suspension bushings work themselves into there new ride height.
I love my FR springs and struts. Car looks better and mucho Weeee factor on the corners. But it got expensive fast. Lack of personal knowledge in this regard can kill you budget, your car and maybe you?. Caveat Emptor. Make sure you post something when your all done! [8D]
