Hey Mustang enthusiasts! Ever feel like your New Edge Mustang isn't quite handling the way it should? Does the rear end feel a little loose or unpredictable, especially when you're pushing it through corners or accelerating hard? If so, you might want to take a closer look at your rear control arms. These often-overlooked components play a crucial role in your car's suspension system, directly impacting its handling, stability, and overall performance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the world of New Edge Mustang rear control arms, exploring everything from why they matter to how to choose the right ones and install them like a pro. So, buckle up, guys, because we're about to transform your ride!

Understanding Rear Control Arms and Their Importance

Alright, let's start with the basics. What exactly are rear control arms, and why should you care about them? Think of rear control arms as the unsung heroes of your Mustang's suspension. They're the critical links that connect the rear axle to the chassis, controlling the movement of your wheels and tires. They work in tandem with other suspension components like springs, shocks, and sway bars to manage the up-and-down, and fore-and-aft movement of your wheels. In other words, they're responsible for keeping your tires planted firmly on the ground, allowing you to steer, accelerate, and brake effectively.

Now, the stock control arms on your New Edge Mustang are, well, adequate. They get the job done, but they're often made of stamped steel or cast iron and are designed with rubber bushings. These bushings are meant to absorb vibrations and noise, creating a more comfortable ride. However, that comfort comes at a cost. Rubber bushings can be squishy and flexible, which means they can deflect under load, leading to a loss of precision and responsiveness, especially during spirited driving or on the track. When the control arms deflect, it alters the alignment of your rear wheels, causing inconsistent handling and reducing your car's ability to maintain grip. This can result in a vague feeling in the rear end, reduced cornering capabilities, and even wheel hop during hard acceleration. That's where upgraded rear control arms come in. Upgrading to aftermarket rear control arms with stiffer materials and improved bushings can significantly improve your Mustang's handling. These upgraded arms are designed to minimize deflection, allowing for more precise control over your car's suspension geometry. Stiffer arms translate to more predictable handling, reduced wheel hop, and improved overall performance. Essentially, upgrading your control arms is like giving your Mustang a shot of adrenaline, transforming it from a comfortable cruiser into a corner-carving machine.

Types of Rear Control Arms: Choosing the Right Ones

So, you're convinced that upgrading your rear control arms is the way to go. Awesome! But with so many options available, how do you choose the right set for your New Edge Mustang? Let's break down the different types of rear control arms and what to consider when making your decision. First off, you'll generally find two main types of rear control arms: upper and lower. Some kits include both, while others focus on one or the other. Each has its specific function and benefits.

Upper Control Arms

The upper control arms are located above the rear axle, and their primary job is to control the vertical movement of the axle. They play a significant role in maintaining proper pinion angle, which is the angle between your driveshaft and your rear axle's pinion. When you accelerate, your rear axle tends to rotate upward. This can change the pinion angle, leading to vibrations or even damage to your driveshaft or rear end. Upgrading to adjustable upper control arms allows you to fine-tune the pinion angle, optimizing it for your specific setup and driving style. This can lead to smoother acceleration, reduced vibrations, and improved overall performance.

Upper control arms also contribute to the car's anti-squat characteristics, which affects how much the rear of the car squats during acceleration. Some adjustable upper control arms are designed to alter the anti-squat, further fine-tuning the car's launch performance.

Lower Control Arms

The lower control arms are located below the rear axle, and they're primarily responsible for controlling the lateral movement of the axle. They play a critical role in handling and stability, especially during cornering. Upgrading your lower control arms can significantly reduce wheel hop and improve your car's ability to maintain grip. The stock lower control arms are prone to deflection, especially during hard acceleration or cornering. This can cause the rear wheels to lose traction momentarily, resulting in wheel hop or a vague feeling in the rear end. Upgrading to stiffer lower control arms with improved bushings minimizes deflection, allowing the suspension to work more efficiently. This leads to more predictable handling, reduced wheel hop, and improved overall performance. When choosing lower control arms, you'll often encounter different bushing options, such as polyurethane, spherical rod ends, or even a combination of both. Each has its pros and cons, which we will explore further.

Bushing Materials: A Deep Dive

Beyond the type of control arm, the bushing material is another crucial factor to consider. The bushings are the components that connect the control arms to the chassis and the rear axle, and they play a vital role in absorbing vibrations and controlling movement. Different bushing materials offer varying levels of performance and comfort. Let's take a look at the most common options:

• Polyurethane Bushings: These are a popular upgrade over the stock rubber bushings. They're stiffer than rubber, which reduces deflection and improves handling. They also tend to last longer than rubber bushings and are relatively affordable. However, polyurethane bushings can transmit more road noise and vibration than rubber, which may slightly impact ride comfort. They also require periodic lubrication to prevent squeaking.
• Spherical Rod Ends (or Heim Joints): These offer the highest level of performance. They consist of a spherical bearing encased in a metal housing, allowing for a full range of motion with minimal deflection. This translates to incredibly precise handling and a direct feel. Spherical rod ends are a favorite among track enthusiasts. However, they transmit the most road noise and vibration, making them less suitable for daily driving. They also require more frequent maintenance and can be more expensive than polyurethane bushings.
• Hybrid Options: Some manufacturers offer a combination of polyurethane and spherical rod ends, aiming to strike a balance between performance and comfort.

Material Matters

The material of the control arms themselves also plays a significant role. Most aftermarket rear control arms are made from either steel or aluminum.

• Steel Arms: Steel arms are generally stronger and more durable than aluminum arms. They're a good choice for those who want maximum performance and durability. However, they can add more weight to the vehicle.
• Aluminum Arms: Aluminum arms are lighter than steel, which can improve your car's unsprung weight and handling. This means the car reacts quicker and feels more responsive. The lighter weight can also improve acceleration and braking. The downside is that they can be more expensive than steel arms.

When selecting, think about your primary use for the car. If it's a dedicated track car, then you'd likely opt for spherical rod ends and aluminum arms. If it's a daily driver that you take to the track sometimes, then polyurethane bushings and steel arms could be a good compromise.

Installing New Edge Mustang Rear Control Arms: Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, so you've done your research, chosen your rear control arms, and they've arrived at your doorstep. Now comes the fun part: the installation! Don't worry, guys; it's a manageable task that can be accomplished in your garage with the right tools and a little bit of patience. However, this is just a general overview. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific control arm kit. The installation process may vary slightly. Let's get started:

Gathering Your Tools and Supplies

First things first, you'll need to gather the necessary tools and supplies. Here's what you'll typically need:

• New Rear Control Arms: The star of the show!
• Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safely lifting and supporting your car.
• Wheel Chocks: For safety.
• Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
• Socket Set and Wrenches: You'll need a variety of sizes to remove and install the control arms. A metric set is a must!
• Torque Wrench: To ensure you tighten the bolts to the correct specifications (very important!).
• Penetrating Oil: To help loosen any stubborn bolts.
• Hammer: For persuasion, sometimes.
• Pry Bar or Tire Iron: For prying the control arms into place.
• Safety Glasses and Gloves: Always protect yourself!

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Safety First! Park your Mustang on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. This ensures the car won't roll. Put on your safety glasses and gloves.
2. Loosen the Lug Nuts: Loosen the lug nuts on both rear wheels, but don't remove them completely yet.
3. Lift and Secure the Vehicle: Use your jack to lift the rear of the car and place it securely on jack stands. Ensure the car is stable before proceeding.
4. Remove the Wheels: Now, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels. This gives you easy access to the control arms.
5. Locate the Control Arms: Identify the upper and lower control arms. They're usually bolted to the rear axle and the chassis. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions if you're unsure.
6. Remove the Old Control Arms: Start by removing the bolts that secure the control arms. Use penetrating oil if needed to help loosen stubborn bolts. Use your socket set and wrench. Some bolts might be tricky to access, so patience is key!
7. Install the New Control Arms: Install the new control arms, following the manufacturer's instructions. This may involve using a pry bar to align the control arms with the mounting points.
8. Tighten the Bolts: Once the new control arms are in place, tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications. Use your torque wrench for this step; over-tightening can damage the control arms or suspension components.
9. Reinstall the Wheels: Put the wheels back on, and snug the lug nuts.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the car back to the ground.
11. Torque the Lug Nuts: Once the car is on the ground, torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. Consult your owner's manual or a reliable source for the correct torque value.
12. Double-Check Your Work: Before you take your car for a spin, double-check all bolts to make sure they're properly tightened. It's always a good idea to retorque the bolts after driving for a short distance.
13. Alignment: After installing new control arms, it's essential to get a wheel alignment. This ensures that your car's wheels are correctly aligned and that your car handles properly. A proper alignment will maximize the benefits of your new control arms.

Fine-Tuning and Troubleshooting

After installing your rear control arms and getting an alignment, you may need to make some minor adjustments to get the handling just right. For example, if you've installed adjustable upper control arms, you may need to fine-tune the pinion angle to eliminate any vibrations or improve acceleration. If you experience any issues, such as excessive noise, vibrations, or unusual tire wear, it's essential to troubleshoot the problem. Check the torque on all bolts, inspect the bushings for damage, and ensure that all components are properly aligned. If you're unsure about any aspect of the installation or troubleshooting, it's always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion: Unleash Your Mustang's Potential

Upgrading your New Edge Mustang's rear control arms is a fantastic way to improve its handling, stability, and overall performance. By choosing the right type of control arms and following the proper installation procedures, you can transform your ride from a comfortable cruiser into a corner-carving machine. Remember to prioritize safety, take your time, and consult the manufacturer's instructions. With a little effort, you can unlock your Mustang's full potential and enjoy the thrill of a more responsive and capable vehicle. So go out there, hit the road, and experience the difference that upgraded rear control arms can make! Happy motoring, guys!