Suspension Parts for 1973 Ford Capri: A Complete Guide

Restoring or upgrading a 1973 Ford Capri involves careful attention to its suspension system. The right parts can transform handling, ride quality, and safety. This guide covers the essential suspension components for the Capri, helping you make informed choices whether you're a weekend mechanic or a professional restorer.

Understanding the 1973 Ford Capri Suspension

The 1973 Capri used a MacPherson strut front suspension and a live axle rear with leaf springs. This setup was common for its era but can feel vague by modern standards. Upgrading suspension parts can sharpen response and improve stability. Key components include shocks, struts, springs, bushings, sway bars, and control arms.

Shocks and Struts

Front Struts

The front suspension relies on struts that combine spring and damping. Options include:

• Standard replacement struts: These match factory specifications and are ideal for a stock restoration. Brands like KYB and Monroe offer direct replacements.
• Performance struts: For better handling, consider adjustable or gas-charged struts. They reduce body roll and improve steering feel. Bilstein and Koni provide options for the Capri, though some may require minor modifications.

Rear Shocks

The rear uses separate shocks mounted between the axle and chassis. Replace them in pairs. Options:

• Original-style shocks: Simple and inexpensive, suitable for daily driving.
• Heavy-duty or gas shocks: Better for carrying loads or towing. They resist fade during spirited driving.

Springs

Front Coil Springs

The Capri's front springs are part of the strut assembly. When replacing, consider:

• Stock height springs: Maintain original ride height and comfort.
• Lowering springs: Reduce the center of gravity for better cornering. A 1-inch drop is common without sacrificing too much ride quality. Brands like Eibach or H&R offer Capri-specific lowering springs (be sure to check fitment).

Rear Leaf Springs

The rear axle is supported by leaf springs. Options:

• Standard replacement leaf springs: If your originals are sagging or cracked, replace them with new stock-style leaf springs.
• Upgraded leaf springs: For improved handling, consider heavy-duty or multi-leaf springs. Some aftermarket suppliers offer parabolic springs that reduce weight while maintaining load capacity.

Bushings and Mounts

Worn bushings cause vague steering and clunks. Replacing them with polyurethane or rubber is a cost-effective upgrade.

• Control arm bushings: Front lower control arm bushings directly affect alignment and steering precision. Polyurethane bushings are firmer and last longer than rubber.
• Strut rod bushings: These are often overlooked but critical for front end stability.
• Leaf spring bushings: Replace shackle and eye bushings when replacing leaf springs. Polyurethane versions reduce axle wrap and improve traction.

Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars)

The 1973 Capri came with front and rear sway bars. A thicker sway bar reduces body roll significantly.

• Front sway bar: Original diameter was around 19mm. Upgrading to 22mm or 24mm can tighten the front end. Many aftermarket suppliers offer bars with adjustable end links.
• Rear sway bar: Not all Capris had rear sway bars. Adding one (or upgrading an existing one) helps balance handling and reduces understeer.

Steering Components

While not strictly suspension, steering parts work closely with the suspension.

• Tie rods: Check for play. Replace inner and outer tie rods as a set.
• Idler arm and pitman arm: These wear over time. Replace with quality aftermarket or OEM equivalents.
• Steering rack bushings: If your Capri has rack-and-pinion steering (common in later models but check yours), worn bushings cause slop. Polyurethane replacements tighten the feel.

Control Arms and Links

• Front lower control arms: These can be purchased as complete assemblies with new ball joints and bushings. This simplifies replacement.
• Rear control arms (if applicable): Some Capris have trailing arms. Check for bushing wear.
• Panhard rod: The rear axle is located by a Panhard rod. A stock replacement or an adjustable one allows you to center the axle after lowering.

Compatibility and Interchange

Many suspension parts for the 1973 Capri are shared with other Ford models like the Pinto or Mustang II, but not all. Always verify fitment for your specific year and engine variant. The Capri used metric and inch hardware, so check bolt sizes. Some aftermarket parts require minor fabrication.

Choosing Between OEM and Performance

Decide based on your goals:

• Original restoration: Use OEM-quality replacement parts from brands like Moog, TRW, or Ford. These maintain factory ride and handling.
• Street performance: Select name brand shocks (Bilstein, Koni), polyurethane bushings, and slightly larger sway bars. This improves handling without making the car harsh.
• Track or autocross: Use coilover conversion kits (if available), adjustable sway bars, and spherical bushings. Be aware that such setups can be noisy and stiff for daily driving.

Installation Tips

• Always replace nuts and bolts with new ones, especially on suspension components.
• Use a spring compressor when removing struts or coil springs. Never attempt without proper tools.
• After installation, get a professional wheel alignment. Suspension changes alter camber, caster, and toe.
• Torque all fasteners to factory specifications. Over-tightening can damage bushings.

Recommended Approach

For most owners, a balanced upgrade is ideal: new shocks and struts (gas-charged), polyurethane bushings on the front control arms, and a slightly thicker front sway bar. Replace any worn rubber components. This package retains ride comfort while sharpening response. If you lower the car, combine with adjustable sway bar end links and a Panhard rod correction kit.

Final Recommendation

Focus on the parts that matter most: shocks, bushings, and sway bars. They offer the best improvement per dollar. For a stock restoration, use quality rubber bushings and standard shocks. For a driver's car, invest in polyurethane and performance dampers. Always verify fitment with the supplier before purchasing. With careful selection, your 1973 Ford Capri will handle as good as it looks.

Note: Prices and availability vary. Consult a trusted supplier or Capri specialist for current offerings.