The electrical system in a first-generation Mustang is one of the areas that needs to be upgraded in a high-performance car. The original systems were very basic with little capacity for extra equipment. This isn’t surprising when you consider there was little more than a very simple radio, some lights, a horn, and only some […]

The inclusion of a chapter covering the vehicle interior may, at first blush, seem out of place in a book discussing performance upgrades. That is, of course, until you consider the single most important factor in the performance of the vehicle is the performance of the “nut behind the wheel,” otherwise known as the driver. […]

When it comes to overall vehicle performance potential the tire is the most important single component. The tires, with help from the wheels and suspension, are responsible for putting the power to the ground, cornering, stopping, ride quality, and even less obvious things such as fuel economy and interior noise.   This Tech Tip is […]

Because power is useless without control you need to understand how the suspension helps the force at the tires be transformed into motion while the steering (for the most part) determines what direction the motion is in. This chapter concentrates on street and highway (including high-speed events) use and covers some road course applications. A […]

A high-performance Mustang needs high-performance brakes. Better stopping capability allows you to travel at a higher speed for a longer distance and/or period of time because you can quickly slow the car enough to negotiate a turn without spinning out. On the street, brakes are used very often even though they may not be used […]

Although the engine and transmission usually get the most attention the driveshaft and rear axle assembly are two essential parts of the equation. In this chapter I address the necessary compromises to be made when vehicles are used in different operating modes, under changing conditions, and with differing budgets. I concentrate primarily on the driveshaft, […]

After determining your engine package the next logical step is to choose what type of transmission you’re going to use. The transmission is the next component in the flow of power from the engine and, combined with the rear axle ratio, it determines your overall drive ratio (ODR). It’s also appropriate to note the ODR […]

Taking the time to evaluate your oiling system and make improvements where necessary not only protects your engine by preventing problems but it can also be a source of even more performance gains. The cooling system of a vehicle is critical in removing the additional heat created as you increase engine output to improve vehicle […]

As you pack more air and fuel into the cylinders, you significantly increase the cylinder pressure and the charge motion within the cylinder prior to ignition. This can make it less likely for the spark to occur with enough energy for combustion, or to occur at all. Even for a mild-performance car, minor upgrading of […]