1965-66 Strut Rod Orientation

[SFM66H]

It's astonishing to me that this Mustang strut rod information is not included in the 1965 or 1966 Ford SHOP Manual, so I'm coming here for confirmation, and to share the word of what (to me) is a rather important piece of install information. The flattened end of the strut rod is at a different angle on each side, depending on whether the reference mark faces up or down. This applies to only the 65-66 strut rods, as '67 and up are a completely different design and can only be installed one way.

Marcus Anghel's excellent suspension guide shows/states that the cast "slash mark" on the strut rod faces down when installed (I say correct). But next month's Hemmings Motor News shows/states just the opposite (I say wrong).

Responses from the experts here on the SAAC Forum should make this an important future reference for all strut rod servicers/installers.

Thanks,
Kieth 


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[J_Speegle]

Looking at a couple of unrestored cars quickly the cast mark was installed facing downward on those examples
Would post a few pictures but can't at the moment

[Bob Gaines]

Casting detail placed facing down unless you want a point deduction in concours venues that use informed judges.

[CharlesTurner]

The strut rods have a slight curve, which is why the notch should be on the bottom... I believe this is noted in the Ford assembly manual and is what the small yellow paint daub is there for.

[anghelrestorations]

So...Im just curious what's the context of the Hemmings article.  I have not seen that one. 

[SFM66H]

It's a four page article about the rebuilding of the front suspension on a 1965 Mustang.

[anghelrestorations]

Ok I will check it out.  I need all the advice I can get!!

[SFM66H]

I'd say you don't need that advice though!

[silverton_ford]

A link to the article.  - https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/sure-footed-stallion?fbclid=IwAR0lg2KiuZWLgkEFZAZEkwzF-uTL7SmhxDlchHBuMC119nMSfSwKqCAVRUA


Using a crescent wrench in one of the photos....     

[CharlesTurner]

In one of the pics, the strut rod mark can be seen in the correct orientation.  Guess maybe a typo in the article or someone got their notes wrong.

[98SVT - was 06GT]

I worry they think it's a cast part.