Project FD RX7 Restomod: Part 16 – Installing the Ronin Ford 8.8 IRS Mount Kit using DSS Axles

FD RX-7 rear subframe powdercoatingWe had Specialized Coatings mask off the eccentric bolt areas, so there is no binding during the adjustment of the car’s alignment.

FD RX-7 Ronin Ford Explorer 8.8 IRS Rear Subframe Swap KitOverall, we debated whether to powder coat the subframe or paint the welded in pieces with black engine enamel.  After seeing this end result, we are ecstatic that we decided to send the subframe to Specialized Coatings to have it powder coated, and we now want to do the front subframe.

FD RX-7 Ronin Ford Explorer 8.8 IRS Rear Subframe KitWith the differential bolted to our new subframe, the entire assembly was ready to be installed back into the car.

FD RX-7 Ronin Ford 8.8 Swap modifications to tubThe ribs on the thin sheet metal of the rear seat bucket need to be dented in about a quarter of an inch to allow clearance of the rear subframe support bridge.  The mounting tab on the driver’s side also needs to be removed.

FD RX-7 Ronin Ford Explorer 8.8The entire subframe bolted right back up into the chassis with ease.

4 comments

  1. This is vastly superior to any other 8.8 conversion I have seen for this car. Now to convince Jeff to do this to Project V8 FD!

  2. Great write-up and an impressive kit.
    Although, it seems the support bridge could be easily revisioned to be at least half an inch lower so it wouldn’t necessitate beating up your pristine RX-7-s body.

  3. Damn, great progress. 🙂

    still loving the fact that this went from rest-mod to restless-mod.
    been following from the beginning.

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