Restomodding a 1962 Ford Fairlane is a rewarding way to blend classic style with modern performance. One of the most impactful upgrades you can make is to the suspension. The original components were designed for bias-ply tires and cruising speeds, not today's highway driving or spirited cornering. Upgrading to modern suspension parts transforms the car's handling, ride comfort, and safety without ruining its vintage character. This guide covers the essential suspension parts and upgrades for a 1962 Fairlane restomod, focusing on what works, compatibility, and real-world benefits.
Why Upgrade the Suspension on a 1962 Fairlane?
The stock suspension on a 1962 Fairlane uses a simple coil spring front suspension and leaf springs in the rear. While adequate when new, these parts are now over sixty years old. Bushings are worn, springs sag, and shocks lack damping control. The result is a vague, bouncy ride with excessive body roll and poor braking stability. By upgrading to modern components, you can achieve:
- Better handling: Tighter cornering, reduced understeer, and improved steering response.
- Improved ride quality: Adjustable damping lets you tune for comfort or performance.
- Lower ride height: Many restomod suspension kits allow you to lower the car for a aggressive stance without compromising suspension travel.
- Enhanced safety: Stronger components and better brake compatibility reduce stopping distances.
Key Suspension Components for Restomodding
Coilover Conversion Kits
One of the most popular upgrades is replacing the original front coil springs and shocks with a coilover system. Coilovers combine a spring and shock absorber into a single unit, offering adjustable ride height and damping. For the 1962 Fairlane, several companies offer front coilover conversion kits that bolt directly into the existing shock towers and lower control arms. Look for kits that include threaded shock bodies, coil springs of various rates, and adjustable damping. A good coilover setup can dramatically improve front end control and allow you to dial in the perfect stance. Rear coilover conversions are also available, often using a four-link or triangulated four-link setup to replace the leaf springs. This provides independent rear suspension adjustment for handling and ride height.
Upper and Lower Control Arms
The factory stamped steel control arms are prone to flex and have limited geometry for modern alignment settings. Forged aluminum or tubular steel control arms are stronger and often feature replaceable ball joints and polyurethane bushings. They also allow for increased caster and camber adjustment, which is crucial after lowering the car. Some suppliers offer complete front suspension packages that include control arms, coilovers, and sway bars. When choosing control arms, ensure they are designed specifically for the 1962 Fairlane frame and suspension space.
Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars)
The original sway bars on the 1962 Fairlane are thin and inefficient. Upgrading to thicker, solid or hollow sway bars reduces body roll during cornering without sacrificing ride comfort dramatically. A common upgrade is a 1-inch or 1.125-inch front bar and a matching rear bar. Many aftermarket companies offer sway bar kits with heim-joint end links for precise adjustment. Pairing a front and rear sway bar creates a more balanced handling envelope, reducing understeer and improving turn-in response.
Bushings and Mounts
Rubber bushings degrade over time, introducing slop in the suspension. Replacing all suspension bushings with polyurethane or delrin units firms up the suspension and improves steering accuracy. Polyurethane is a good balance between stiffness and vibration transmission, while delrin is more race-oriented and transmits road noise. Focus on the control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and spring mount insulators. Some restomod enthusiasts also replace body mount bushings for a tighter feel.
Brake and Steering Upgrades
While not strictly suspension, brake and steering upgrades are essential companions. The stock drum brakes are inadequate for even moderately aggressive driving. A disc brake conversion kit is highly recommended; many are designed to work with the original spindles or aftermarket drop spindles. For steering, a rack and pinion conversion replaces the old recirculating ball steering gear, offering more precise steering and often better clearance for headers or exhausts. Lowering spindles can also be used to achieve a lower ride height without altering spring geometry.
Selecting the Right Parts for Your Project
With so many options, choosing the right parts can feel overwhelming. Start by deciding your performance goals. Are you building a street cruiser, a weekend autocrosser, or a pro-touring machine? For a street cruiser, focus on quality coilover kits (like from RideTech or QA1), polyurethane bushings, and a moderate sway bar set. For pro-touring, consider full tubular front suspension with adjustable coilovers, larger sway bars, and a four-link rear suspension system. Compatibility is key: not all parts fit every year Fairlane because of differences between the 1962 model and later years. Confirm that any suspension kit you buy is specifically designed for the 1962 Fairlane's width, bolt patterns, and frame.
Another consideration is whether you want a bolt-in upgrade or are willing to do fabrication. Most restomod parts are designed to be bolt-in for the amateur mechanic, but some require welding or drilling. If you're not comfortable with fabrication, stick with complete bolt-in systems. Also, factor in whether you plan to lower the car. Lowering more than 2 inches may require modifications to the transmission crossmember or oil pan for clearance.
Installation Tips and Common Pitfalls
- Alignment after lowering: After any suspension change, especially coilovers or control arms, you must get a professional alignment. The new parts may allow adjustments the factory didn't, so find a shop experienced with classic cars.
- Check clearance: Lowered cars may have tire interference with the inner fender wells or frame. Measure wheel offset and tire diameter carefully.
- Torque specifications: Use correct torque for all suspension bolts, especially those involving ball joints and control arm pivot points. Safety first.
- Brake line extensions: When lowering, the stock rubber brake lines may be too short. Replace with stainless steel braided lines of appropriate length.
- Shock mounting: Ensure coilover shock mounts are secure and the shock body doesn't contact anything at full compression or extension.
Final Recommendation
For most 1962 Fairlane restomod builders, a complete front suspension kit that includes coilovers, tubular control arms, and a sway bar is the best investment. Paired with a rear four-link conversion (if you want a modern rear end) or a set of rear coilovers with a panhard bar, you'll transform the car's handling without making it too harsh for daily use. Aim for a setup that allows for ride height adjustment and at least single-adjustable damping. Popular brands include RideTech, QA1, Heidts, and Detroit Speed. Check forum feedback for specific compatibility with your car's year. Start with the front suspension first, as it makes the biggest difference in feel, then tackle the rear and brakes. With the right parts and careful installation, your 1962 Fairlane will drive like a modern sports car while retaining its classic soul.