PFADT Racing is well known in the performance automotive world for producing high-quality suspension components. Their parts are engineered for track and street use, with a focus on precision, durability, and handling improvement. Whether you drive a Corvette, Camaro, or another GM platform, PFADT offers a range of suspension upgrades that can transform how your car behaves.
This guide covers the main PFADT suspension parts, what they do, and how to decide which ones fit your goals. Keep reading for a practical breakdown.
Understanding PFADT's Product Line
PFADT designs suspension parts for specific driving applications. Their components generally fall into a few categories: coilover systems, sway bars, control arms, and accessory hardware. Each piece is built to address particular handling characteristics, from reducing body roll to improving tire contact.
PFADT Coilover Systems
Coilovers are a popular upgrade for enthusiasts who want adjustable ride height and damping. PFADT offers several coilover kits, including the Adjustable Ride Height (ARH) coilovers and the Featherlight coilovers.
- ARH Coilovers: These are designed for street and track use. They feature adjustable spring perches for ride height, and many kits include adjustable damping. The shock bodies are constructed from lightweight aluminum to reduce unsprung weight.
- Featherlight Coilovers: A lighter, more track-focused option. They use a monotube design and offer high adjustability. These are suited for cars that see frequent track days.
When choosing coilovers, consider your primary use. If you drive mostly on the street, the ARH series provides a good balance of comfort and performance. For dedicated track cars, Featherlight coilovers can offer more precise control.
Sway Bars and End Links
Sway bars (anti-roll bars) reduce body roll during cornering. PFADT manufactures hollow and solid sway bars in various diameters. They also include stronger end links that eliminate slop from the factory rubber bushings.
- Hollow Sway Bars: Lighter than solid bars, yet still stiff. They reduce weight while providing similar roll resistance.
- Solid Sway Bars: Heavier but offer maximum stiffness. Best for serious track use where weight isn't as critical.
Upgrading sway bars is a relatively easy suspension mod that noticeably flattens cornering. PFADT typically offers front and rear sets, allowing you to tune balance. For a street car, a hollow front bar with a matching rear bar is a good starting point. Track users may prefer solid bars for maximum control.
Control Arms and Bushings
Control arms connect the chassis to the wheel assembly. PFADT makes adjustable control arms that allow you to alter camber, caster, and toe settings. This is crucial for aligning the suspension after lowering or for track alignment. Their arms often use spherical bearings (heim joints) instead of rubber bushings, reducing deflection and improving steering response.
- Upper Control Arms: Typically adjustable for camber. Important for correcting geometry on lowered cars.
- Lower Control Arms: Less common, but PFADT offers upgraded lower arms with stiffer bushings.
If you plan to lower your car or need more alignment range for the track, PFADT control arms are a direct upgrade. They are built from steel or aluminum, with the aluminum arms being lighter.
Differential Mounts and Bushing Kits
PFADT also produces differential mounts and bushing kits to reduce drivetrain slop. These parts are less glamorous but help with power delivery and wheel hop. The differential mount bushings replace the soft rubber ones with polyurethane or solid aluminum, keeping the differential in place under hard acceleration. A two-piece differential mount can tighten the whole rear cradle.
These upgrades are especially useful for cars with increased power or sticky tires. They can make the car feel more responsive when launching or cornering.
Choosing the Right Suspension Parts for Your Build
Selecting PFADT parts depends on your vehicle, budget, and intended use. Here’s a practical approach:
For Street Performance
If you want a car that handles well on back roads but is still comfortable daily, start with:
- Adjustable coilovers (ARH series) for ride height and damping.
- Sway bars (hollow front and rear) to reduce roll without harshness.
- Upgraded end links to remove deflection.
You can skip control arms unless your alignment is out of spec after lowering. Differential bushings are optional but recommended if you have a manual transmission and notice wheel hop.
For Track or Autocross
Competitive driving demands more. Consider:
- Featherlight coilovers for weight savings and high adjustability.
- Solid sway bars for maximum roll control.
- Adjustable upper control arms to dial in camber.
- Differential mount kit to minimize wheel hop on corner exit.
Be prepared for a stiffer ride; track-focused parts trade comfort for performance.
For Drag Racing
Drag racing requires launch stability. Key parts:
- Lowering coilovers to transfer weight.
- Solid differential mounts to prevent axle tramp.
- Bushing kits for the cradle and control arms.
Sway bars are often removed or disconnected at the drag strip, so you might skip those initially.
Installation Considerations
PFADT parts are designed as bolt-on upgrades, but some require moderate mechanical skill. Coilovers and sway bars are relatively straightforward with basic hand tools. Control arms and differential mounts may need a lift or specialty tools. If you’re not comfortable, a professional installation is wise. Alignment is critical after any suspension work; plan for a visit to a shop that can handle performance alignments.
Warranty and support: PFADT offers limited warranties on defects, but performance parts are often used hard. Keep original parts if you may revert to stock.
Final Recommendation
For most drivers seeking a balanced street and track setup, start with PFADT ARH coilovers and a set of hollow sway bars. This combination delivers noticeable handling improvements without ruining daily comfort. If your car sees heavy track use, step up to Featherlight coilovers, solid sway bars, and adjustable control arms. Always pair suspension upgrades with proper tires and alignment to maximize the benefits.
PFADT suspension parts are proven components that can elevate your car’s performance. Choose based on your driving goals, and enjoy the precision they bring to the road or track.