New to S197 Mods - Where to Start, Looking for some advice and suggestions!

[marcossandreww]

Hey everyone,

I am new here and just bought my first S197 Mustang GT ('05-'14). I am really excited to start modding it but don't want to dive in without a plan. I have done some reading: but there are so many options out there.., I am feeling a bit overwhelmed.

I am looking for advice on where to start with mods that make a noticeable difference but also keep things reliable. Should I prioritize performance upgrades (like intake and exhaust), suspension or maybe even handling improvements: ?? And if anyone has recommendations for specific brands or products that work well with S197s,,, I would love to hear them.

I am aiming for a nice balance daily driver capable but with a bit of extra punch. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated !! I have also read this thread https://www.s197forum.com/threads/where-to-start.117285rpa/ but need more assistance.

Thanks in advance for helping a newbie out. This community seems awesome...., and I am looking forward to learning from you all !!

With Regards,
Marcos Andrew

 

[Dino Dino Bambino]

I am aiming for a nice balance daily driver capable but with a bit of extra punch.

That's exactly where I am with my 06 GT. Here's a list of my mods:

Parts

You didn't mention if your car has the 4.6 3V engine or the 5.0 Coyote engine but the most popular entry-level performance mod for a N/A set up is a CAI & tune.

 

[JC SSP]

What year mustang did you buy?

 

[07 Boss]

The old tried and true method to building any car is have a comprehensive plan and build from the ground up.

 

[JC SSP]

We still need to know 4.6 or 5.0?

FYI An engine is an "air pump" the more air in and the more air out faster it will generate more power. So simply start on the intake and exhaust with a good tune and you will make power.

 

[DieHarder]

IMHO I'd recommend taming handling first (tires along with better struts/shocks; front & rear LCA's & sway bars). If you can't keep it on the road it doesn't matter how much power you have.

 

[Candy10]

IMHO I'd recommend taming handling first (tires along with better struts/shocks; front & rear LCA's & sway bars). If you can't keep it on the road it doesn't matter how much power you have.

I second this. Shocks and struts, then rear LCAs. UCA may not be that big a deal unless you go lowering springs, but the bushings on it may be shot. Sway bars are gonna come down to driving style and preferred feel, but again, bushings. Id include every bushing under the car while under there. S197s 10 to 20 years old now.

 

[JC SSP]

To quote a great man…

 

[1 Alibi 2]

Welcome to the forum.
Have an end goal for the car & a budget.
If there is local tuning talent, that may a good place to start..

 

[GriffX]

Best mod I did was the noise insulation. LOL

 

[ShelbySteve]

Best mod I did was the noise insulation. LOL

The “raw” if you will sound is why I love my 07 over newer ones.