Question about strut tower braces

[chuckstang]

Why do some 2011/12's have them and so do not?

Also, why are there so many different ones offered by Ford...I have seen multiple different pieces at different car shows.

Are any one better than the other and what purpose do they serve if any?

I feel like the front end on my car could use a bit stiffening up but don't wana drop $180 for nothing.

I thought maybe it was the Brembo cars that only got one but Ive seen some like mine that came with them on the lots :shrug:

Also, maybe someone on here put a blower or boss intake on and wants to sell me theres ;-)

 

[Skrapmetal]

I know for sure that it is included with the Brembo package, but perhaps it is a part of another package as well... or just an available option on its own?

 

[PhantomX]

The premium cars get them as well. The base ones or strippers, don't. They all function the same, stiffen the front and tie the unibody together to prevent flex just pick one you like the looks of. Do take into account any other changes you may want to make later like adding a supercharger or boss intake, some will fit and some won't. Better to spend the $$ once...

 

[chuckstang]

they really look nice IMO compared to what they used to put on the Mustangs like for instance the one that came on my gt500 looks like junk and not even worthy of test fitting on the new 5.0 lol

I just dont think they look $180 nice if it doesnt add any rigidity or stiffness etc

 

[Torch10th]

Any car that leaves the factory with 19" wheels comes with the brace. This is the brembo cars and premiums. I suppose if you option a delux with 19" wheels (even possible?) you'd get one too.

Whether or not there's any benefit is debatable. The chassis is fairly stiff on these cars to begin with. Not to mention the way the brace mounts doesn't really transfer much load at all. My guess is that it's more of a style thing. A true brace would mount to all of the strut bolts and likely include firewall mounts to curb any cowl shake that might be occurring.

However, if all you're doing with this car is driving around town, or going to the drag strip, it's just a bit of added weight. You'll see zero benefit from it in those situations.

 

[chuckstang]

Any car that leaves the factory with 19" wheels comes with the brace. This is the brembo cars and premiums. I suppose if you option a delux with 19" wheels (even possible?) you'd get one too.

Whether or not there's any benefit is debatable. The chassis is fairly stiff on these cars to begin with. Not to mention the way the brace mounts doesn't really transfer much load at all. My guess is that it's more of a style thing. A true brace would mount to all of the strut bolts and likely include firewall mounts to curb any cowl shake that might be occurring.

However, if all you're doing with this car is driving around town, or going to the drag strip, it's just a bit of added weight. You'll see zero benefit from it in those situations.

Interesting. Yeah there is definite cowl shake at times, although had it with my gt500 as well but cant really remember if the brace helped or not on or off.

Im checking the market place for a used one, I figure whats 50-100 bucks, if it doesnt help or dont like it, sell it or toss it in the basement lol

Ive got a steeda panhard rod and brace waiting to go in...hoping that will stiffen up the rear a bit

 

[Strpperpolef150]

The premium cars get them as well. The base ones or strippers, don't. They all function the same, stiffen the front and tie the unibody together to prevent flex just pick one you like the looks of. Do take into account any other changes you may want to make later like adding a supercharger or boss intake, some will fit and some won't. Better to spend the $$ once...

My base model brembo car came with it.

 

[hand-filer]

This guy has one for sale for $90:
Factory Strut tower brace for sale

 

[2011redcandy]

Any car with 19" wheels got them...think ill be taking mine off and selling it

 

[TBuick87]

My Vert Came with it stock, but now that I have the Roushcharger it's a Paperweight...so it's for sale..

 

[Entrenched]

19" wheels or vert and you get the brace on the 5.0

I'm running the v6/boss brace and had it powdercoated to match.

 

[grnenvy]

Hmm

That looks very nice!
I have a factory ST Brace 4 sale if anyone wants one.

19" wheels or vert and you get the brace on the 5.0

I'm running the v6/boss brace and had it powdercoated to match.

 

[chuckstang]

Anyone looking to sell theirs pm me details!

 

[Erich]

It may also help over time to keep things from loosening up.
Erich

 

[Don's Bolt]

Anyone looking to sell theirs pm me details!

Chuck where in New England are you
I am getting a Roush blower installed at the end of the month, will be selling mine then
I am in Chestnut Hill Ma

my e-mail is [email protected]

 

[SID297]

19" wheels or vert and you get the brace on the 5.0

I'm running the v6/boss brace and had it powdercoated to match.

That's a good looking setup.

 

[ViciousJay]

The premium cars get them as well. The base ones or strippers, don't. They all function the same, stiffen the front and tie the unibody together to prevent flex just pick one you like the looks of. Do take into account any other changes you may want to make later like adding a supercharger or boss intake, some will fit and some won't. Better to spend the $$ once...

mine didnt :cuss: