You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we talk about the use of caster/camber plates and offset steering rack bushings with Fox-body lowering springs

Q: I am installing a set of lowering springs on my Fox Mustang. I have been advised to include adjustable caster/camber plates and offset steering rack bushings with the installation. Is this truly necessary? And if so, why?

G.R.
red ford mustang foxbody convertible 5.0 liter engine
(Image/OnAllCylinders)

A: When you lower a Fox-body Mustang, alignment and bump steer come into play. After lowering your vehicle, you’ll need to reset its alignment to the correct position. This can sometimes be achieved without caster/camber plates, but usually requires substantial grinding of the shock tower to allow the needed movement. Adjustable caster/camber plates allow vehicle alignment to be reset to the correct position without the headache of modifying the factory structure.

The offset steering rack bushings that were recommended are used to eliminate bump steera condition where the vehicle follows the grooves in the road surface. When a Fox-body Mustang’s ride height is reduced by more than one inch, bump steer becomes a problem. By correcting the steering rack geometry with the offset bushings, the car will maintain its factory road manners. Plus, the bushing’s stiffer polyurethane construction helps increase steering response.

Author: David Fuller

David Fuller is OnAllCylinders' managing editor. During his 20-year career in the auto industry, he has covered a variety of races, shows, and industry events and has authored articles for multiple magazines. He has also partnered with mainstream and trade publications on a wide range of editorial projects. In 2012, he helped establish OnAllCylinders, where he enjoys covering all facets of hot rodding and racing.