Factors to consider when modifying suspension, brakes and steering?

[meeksie]

Hi,
I have a 1964 Ford Consul Capri (116e) and am interested in fitting either a 2.0l duratec or zetec and a type 9 gearbox. As part of the mods I would also like to modify the steering to rack and pinion and also the suspension struts and brakes to provide better handling and stopping power. Much of the original components are similar if not the same as 105e Anglia bits.
Firstly please excuse my mechanical ignorance. At the most basic level, I am not sure on what factors I should be considering when selecting new steering, suspension and braking components. I'm also unsure of the importance of steering geometry, caster and camber angles and whether adjustable struts and coil over would be benificial. I would appreciate any information, links or advise on what I should be doing to select a good steering, suspension and braking setup for my project.
For information the car shall be road registered in WA when completed.
Thanks in advance for your assistance.

[jon rothwell]

The major factors you will need to consider will be the implications for road registration, insurance and resale value.

Some of the mods you want to do may require certification by an engineer and/or the dept of transport, and there are legislative requirements for fitting a different engine that you will have to comply with.

There are no real problems for example when fitting a slightly larger engine from the same year/model vehicle, or fitting disc brakes from an upmarket version of your car which is contemporary with your vehicle. But fitting different steering and suspension types is a lot trickier, and can get very complex. You can upgrade springs and shocks with aftermarket parts to a certain extent, but once you get into changing core components and modifying the chassis/subframe to suit you are getting into engineering territory.

The WA dept of Transport has an engineering section who can advise you on what you need to do, and my advice would be to contact them and get copies of relavent legislatory requirements for what you want to do.

My advice would be to keep it all as simple as possible, start with some simple and sensible upgrades that won't requre too much paperwork and then drive the car for a while to work out what you want to do next.
Perhaps rebuild your motor with a better head and carby etc, disc brakes on the front, and upgraded springs and shocks.

Bear in mind also that your insurance company will have a lot to say about any mods (especially if you are under 25), and if you get too carried away you may end up with a car that is very difficult to insure.

Needless to say if your car is a good stock example you won't add much value by chopping it around.

Hope this helps

Jon.

[eskyvator]

You should remember that good suspension and good brakes go hand in hand, good suspenion helps braking.
I'm not sure about state laws but in nsw any car made before 72 can be modified without the hassle of a engineer inspecting your vehicle i think it's called a owner authorised mod or something similar but check it out anyway.
Rack and pinion is awsome do it for sure.