How to Build a Fox Body Drift Car
Introduction
The Ford Mustang Fox Body is a popular choice for drift cars due to its lightweight, rear-wheel-drive platform and availability of aftermarket parts. With the right modifications, a Fox Body Mustang can be transformed into a capable drift machine.
Chassis Modifications
The first step in building a Fox Body drift car is to stiffen the chassis. This can be done by installing a roll cage, strut tower brace, and subframe connectors. These modifications will reduce body flex and improve handling.
Suspension Modifications
The suspension is one of the most critical components of a drift car. It must be able to handle the high lateral loads and impact forces that occur during drifting. For a Fox Body Mustang, a coilover suspension system is a good choice. Coilovers allow you to adjust the ride height and spring rate, which is essential for tuning the car’s handling.
You will also need to install aftermarket control arms and sway bars. These components will help to keep the wheels planted on the ground and reduce body roll.
Braking System
The braking system is another important part of a drift car. It must be able to withstand the repeated hard braking that occurs during drifting. For a Fox Body Mustang, you will need to install upgraded brake pads, rotors, and calipers. You may also want to consider installing a brake bias adjuster, which will allow you to adjust the front-to-rear brake balance.
Engine and Transmission
The engine and transmission are also important components of a drift car. The engine must be powerful enough to slide the car, and the transmission must be able to handle the high torque loads that occur during drifting.
For a Fox Body Mustang, a V8 engine is a good choice. The 5.0L engine is a popular choice, but you may also want to consider a larger engine, such as a 351 Windsor or a 429 Cobra Jet.
The transmission should be a manual transmission. A five-speed or six-speed transmission is a good choice. You may also want to consider installing a limited-slip differential, which will help to put the power down to the ground.
Body Modifications
The body of a drift car is often modified to improve aerodynamics and reduce weight. For a Fox Body Mustang, you may want to install a front spoiler, rear wing, and side skirts. You may also want to remove the rear seats and spare tire to reduce weight.
Wheels and Tires
The wheels and tires are also important components of a drift car. The wheels should be lightweight and strong. The tires should be wide and have a soft compound. This will help to provide grip and reduce rolling resistance.
Tuning
Once you have made all of the necessary modifications, you will need to tune the car. This includes adjusting the suspension, brakes, engine, and transmission. The goal is to find a setup that allows you to drift the car smoothly and controllably.
Practice
Drifting is a skill that takes practice. The best way to learn is to find a safe place to practice, such as an empty parking lot or track. Start by practicing slow, controlled slides. As you become more comfortable, you can start to practice faster slides and different techniques.
Conclusion
Building a Fox Body drift car is a challenging but rewarding project. With the right modifications and tuning, you can create a car that is capable of performing high-speed drifts. However, it is important to remember that drifting is a dangerous sport. Always practice in a safe environment and never drift on public roads.
