I received my K member brace with torque limiters today. I will be installing them tomarrow. Ill post some pics of how it goes and a quick review of them once installed in the comming days. Below are some out of the box pictures.

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Here are the pics of the K member brace installed... This is before the torque limiters go in.


Installing the brace was very easy but took alot longer that I expected because I didnt not own a 21mm or 22mm wrench. So A trip to Sears got that fixed.

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Pic with the Torque Limiters installed...


They were also very easy to install.

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I took the car out after the install and I was very pleased.


There is no noticible shaking inside the car NONE. It actually seems smoother now. I know this is going to sounds kinda strange but When shifting the car used to buck slightly if the clutch/gas wasnt managed correctly. Now I could not make the car buck no matter what I did. When I was teaching my wife to drive a standard, it was very hard for her to prevent the mustang from bucking while shifting. Now I dont beleive she would have those problems at all. (I cant say for sure because now she knows how to drive and it is hard to unlearn something.) I was not expecting this to be affected but it definatly is smoother between gears and taking off.


Now the WHOLE reason I bought this in the first place was to prevent the engine from torqueing over to far and binding the shift linkage. I was having some issues while shifting from 2nd to 3rd in a drag race situation. I did not take it to the track or anything yet but I did take it out and shift from 2-3 at WOT 3 or 4 times. The problem seems to be completly fixed. Now when I shift at WOT 3rd is in the exact same place it is when cruising at 2k RPM and I had 0 issues getting it into 3rd moveing it as fast as my hand can go.


So in conclusion =) I am very happy with my shifting now and am VERY pleased to find that drivability and comfort did not diminish in the least.


And a BIG thank you to 1QuickShortBus for pointing me in this direction.

does this attach to the kmember where the a-arm support would attach?

is it compatible with the bmr kmember by chance?

nice review!

ORIGINAL: Sleeper05

does this attach to the kmember where the a-arm support would attach?

is it compatible with the bmr kmember by chance?

nice review!


It attaches to the same location as the A-Arm support pictured below. The One I installed attaches with the same bolt + another bolt threw the K member/A arm support.

local://upfiles/20416/4ED1418FC53E4EBCB7AB8A825ABCDC90.jpg


I really dont know if it would be compatible with the BMR K member.

LOL I was just looking back over the pics and I realized my dogs are in the background of the 1st one and my wife in the 2nd. The wife is great at handing me tools so I dont have to crawl out from under the car :D


I like to jokingly call her my "Tool B#*ch" [sm=happybounce.gif]

forgive my ignorance, but what exactly does this setup do for you? Is it for Suspension or Drivetrain?

The main reason I installed it was for the torque limiting effect. I was having some issueing shifting fast into 3rd at WOT. I could have gained the same torque limiting capability with new motor mounts. However this is much easier to install and I get the added benefit of an A-arm\K member support at about the same price as motor mounts.

Glad you liked them, I knew you would.

As promised I will be running my car harder than normal this week to test the K member so that by the end of the week I will be able to say YES this will 100% fix the 2-3 shift problem. Due to this problem not occuring every time I shifted I wanted to get a broad range of shifts so I know it is not a fluke and this has really fixed my problem.



Day 2

I had around 5 hard 2-3 shifts and still no issues. It is looking better and better each day. Untill today I had not done a WOT powershift (Not letting off the gas at all) due to being afraid it would not go into gear. It went in perfectly. 3rd will spin pretty damn good when powershifted aswell.

ORIGINAL: Riven02

As promised I will be running my car harder than normal this week to test the K member so that by the end of the week I will be able to say YES this will 100% fix the 2-3 shift problem. Due to this problem not occuring every time I shifted I wanted to get a broad range of shifts so I know it is not a fluke and this has really fixed my problem.



Day 2

I had around 5 hard 2-3 shifts and still no issues. It is looking better and better each day. Untill today I had not done a WOT powershift (Not letting off the gas at all) due to being afraid it would not go into gear. It went in perfectly. 3rd will spin pretty damn good when powershifted aswell. It is not something I will do to my car often or maybe even again as it is hard on clutches but it was somthing I wanted to test.



Sounds good man. You may have talked me into doing this mod. I have been having the same issues with my 2-3 gear shift at higher throttle since my Saleen blower went on. This may be a good fix if I come to the conclusion I don't wanna mess with new motor mounts. Thanks for the input Riv[sm=smiley20.gif]

Looks great and not too difficult. If it proves to work, may do it myself. Do these components replace anything currently on the car or do they just bolt into pre-existing places that may or may not already be utilized?

It bolts to the K member/a arm supports using existing holes. The only thing replaced is a few bolts. (It requires longer bolts)

noob question but what exactly does it do

Alot of people are having issues shifting from 2-3 at WOT.


Now the WHOLE reason I bought this in the first place was to prevent the engine from torqueing over to far and binding the shift linkage. I was having some issues while shifting from 2nd to 3rd in a drag race situation.

The Brace also adds A arm support.

did it come with 2 torque limiters or 1? The picture on their site shows 2

http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/images/large/CHE7L.jpg

It comes with 2. One of the pics only shows 1 because I was just showing how it went together and what it looked like apart. If you look at the installed pics both are installed.

local://upfiles/20416/44FA0A29A14B496893717AA73B88355D.jpg

Looks like that will be another high-priority on the mod list. I had already looked at them but was not sure that they actually did their job correctly.

do they need to be adjusted once on the car? It seems like the links attached to the tranny bolt would make noise, is there some kind of urethane isolator in the end links or is it metal to metal?

You just adjust them so that the bolts will go through it. On the transmission end it has a spherical joint. On the other it has Poly bushings. I have noticed no noise or vibration. They do sell one that does not have the poly ends and I was suspect it would make some noise.

After a week of testing and averaging 14 mpg. I give this mod a [sm=smiley20.gif]


I was extra hard on my car this week to test my 2-3 shift after installing the torque limiters and I had no issues. While the problem was intermitten, I have tested it enough now that I can say this has completly fixed my 2-3 shfting problem.






[sm=americanasmiley.gif][sm=patriot.gif][sm=usa.gif]

Once I learned what this does for you, it went to the top of the list of mods for my care (well right after LCA and UCA) for the package I'm getting. Kudos to 1QB again, cuz he's the one that pointed me in the right direction on this one. I'm looking forward to early October like nobody's business!! (that's when the mods ALL go on, wheeee!!)

Yeah I owe 1QuickShortBus a couple beers. :D

Riven - I am just glad you like it, everyone is installing shifters and many are finding that they still can't hit 3rd because of binding in the drivetrain. This kills 3 birds with one stone, k-member support, more solid engine mounting and being able to hit 3rd at WOT. I have been talking about this mod for months now and most have ignored my comments, maybe now people will start taking notice.

So would you guys recommend this mod?

how much did it cost and was it worth it?

I think is was completly worth it. I dont have to worry about missing 3rd at all now. It was 159$ Shipped.

besides the 2-3 smooth shifting, did you feel the car accelerate faster? (transfer the power better, instead of losing it through flexing) after I installed the LCA, it felt like I added 25HP.

It definatly seems the initial jolt of power feels stronger.

I am not sure about faster aceleration. I thought it did feel better in aceleration but the butt dyno can be misleading. It might be accelerating faster due to the extra lightness in my wallet :)

OK - So what would you say the final verdict is ? Did it fix the 2-3 shift. I am about to order the parts jsut want to be sure the immediate reaction was not some placebo effect.

He has posted that it totally fixed his 2-3 shift problem. And while getting 14mpg he must really be testing it.

Yeah it fixed it as stated above. I got the terrible gas mileage because every chance I got i took 3rd hard and I didnt do hardly any highway driving that week.

can I use this support with lower control arms?

Att. Andrew

This attaches to the A Arm support not to the actual A arm. So I THINK they would work fine. I would send mike@powerhouse an email and ask him.

ORIGINAL: androdz

can I use this support with lower control arms?

Att. Andrew


You are thinking of the wrong arms, this is at the front of the car on the A-arms not the rear lower control arms. I only know of a couple aftermarket a-arms and they are a pretty rare mod. Bus even with aftermarket A-arms they should work.

ORIGINAL: 1QuickShortBus

Riven - I am just glad you like it, everyone is installing shifters and many are finding that they still can't hit 3rd because of binding in the drivetrain. This kills 3 birds with one stone, k-member support, more solid engine mounting and being able to hit 3rd at WOT. I have been talking about this mod for months now and most have ignored my comments, maybe now people will start taking notice.


Where did you get it from?

So does this take the place of the BMR support and i am guessing does a better job...?

So $159..Awsome...where did you get it..?




ORIGINAL: Riven02

ORIGINAL: Sleeper05

does this attach to the kmember where the a-arm support would attach?

is it compatible with the bmr kmember by chance?

nice review!


It attaches to the same location as the A-Arm support pictured below. The One I installed attaches with the same bolt + another bolt threw the K member/A arm support.

local://upfiles/20416/4ED1418FC53E4EBCB7AB8A825ABCDC90.jpg


I really dont know if it would be compatible with the BMR K member.

Have mine on order! Expect them by weeks end!:D

I bought mine directly from PowerHouse but if anyone is interested email me at kkintner@carolina.rr.com and I will tell you where to get a good deal on one.

ORIGINAL: 1QuickShortBus

I bought mine directly from PowerHouse but if anyone is interested email me at kkintner@carolina.rr.com and I will tell you where to get a good deal on one.

He hooked me up! Sweet deal too. ;)

ORIGINAL: MusiccityGT

Have mine on order! Expect them by weeks end!:D


And I bet I know where you are getting it from :D

ORIGINAL: 1QuickShortBus

ORIGINAL: MusiccityGT

Have mine on order! Expect them by weeks end!:D


And I bet I know where you are getting it from :D


You da man!!!!

Yeah I should have waited and got them from 1QuickShortBus but I am a very impatient guy [:@]

One order of K-member Brace W/ Torque Limiters on their way. Thanks for the research and info.

ORIGINAL: 1QuickShortBus

I bought mine directly from PowerHouse but if anyone is interested email me at kkintner@carolina.rr.com and I will tell you where to get a good deal on one.


I have emailed you 3x still no response, does any1 know where I can get a good deal on one?

Att. Andrew

Andrew, I have responded to each of your emails, make sure your junk filter isn't filtering my email out.

Oh I am sorry then, please resend to my email I just added you to my safe list. Sorry for that.

Att. andrew

Email sent Andrew.

got it thanks!

After all the great things I have said about these torque limiters I have to say something negative.

We just got finished installing our shaker hood but the torque limiters have made the shaker hood not shake!!!!!!! LOL When I get on it, it doesnt move. The whole cars torques with the shaker.... I say this with a smile as it is a good thing for the shifter that the shaker doesnt torque over, but I do miss out on a little of the cool factor now.

ORIGINAL: androdz


ORIGINAL: 1QuickShortBus

I bought mine directly from PowerHouse but if anyone is interested email me at kkintner@carolina.rr.com and I will tell you where to get a good deal on one.


I have emailed you 3x still no response, does any1 know where I can get a good deal on one?

Att. Andrew


Powerhouse is only a reseller. You can also get them directly from the manufacturer, Carriage House Engineering here:

http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/prodInfo.asp?pid=208&cid=15

You can also get them in custom colors from CHE for 174.99

You can get the custom colors from sellers like Powerhouse as well for the same 25 bucks extra.

Lets see which has free shipping to PR!

Andrew, you aren't going to find anyone with free shipping to PR even at retail the shipping and duties will actually result in a loss to the seller.

rpmoutlet has free ups ground shipping to PR, mustangsuspension has free ups shipping to PR. I have bought almost everything from RPM Outlet since their prices are really low and they offer free shipping. If only I can find someone that ships Redline Oils To PR Free. They are no duties if you ship to PR via UPS ground and USPS Priority Mail, after all it is a U.S. Terroritory. The item never leaves the U.S.A.

Small update:

It has been a while and still no issues with the torque limiters. I have crawled under there and the bushings still look great and all the fasteners are still nice and tight. Everything looks to be in great condition and showing no visible wear. It has been put through the paces MANY MANY times and the shifts are smooth and crisp. This has turned out to be a great buy.


I notice many other poeple buying this product. Has everyone else had similar results?

I read in this thread that you need longer bolts where this thing attaches. Are the bolts provided? If not, what kind do I need and where can I get some?

Everything is included.

The kit should come with longer bolts. I just ordered mine today along with a few other goodies from CHE. Can't wait as these will be the last parts I need before I tear into my suspension. Next weekend could be a big mod weekend for the GT. I would try to sell my G-Trac but who would buy it with this product on the market.

1QSB, I know I've asked you this before but I just can't find where. But can you give me the info again on where to get one of these locally (at a good price)? BTW, I haven't forgotten your offer for a ride in a turboed S197 GT.;)

www.pmpparts.com is local to you.

Does it come with new bolts for the torque limiters to bolt to the transmission? Or do you use the existing ones?

It is an all inclusive setup. The proper bolts are supplied. Everyone that has had a chance to drive my car, a select few, has ordered a set for themselves. They are the bomb!

Wow, I may just ditch the shifter idea. My 2-3 WOT shifts suck and i'm afraid I'm going to f-up the linkage. Great find and great write up! Thanks for pioneering!

I just got mine and was all set to install it....I even have the 21 mm Socket..but working under the car and with no leverage and little room i could not get that nut loose...
Any tips...I would hate to pay someone to install it as it is pretty simple DIY..but..i mihgt have to...

The kit comes with everything you need and pretty good instructions as well...

Try a breaker bar?

There is a little tab on the factory bolt on the bottom. You can break that off and then put a socket on it and not really have to worry about getting a wrench on the top.

1quick, you've been e-mailed and PM'd. And no i'm not anxious :D

Thats a pretty good idea..Since i dont reuse that TAB..Whats the best way to snap that off...



ORIGINAL: jay00f4

There is a little tab on the factory bolt on the bottom. You can break that off and then put a socket on it and not really have to worry about getting a wrench on the top.

Just hook another boxed in wrench to the open end of the 21MM works like a charm.

$160 that is a great price...I'm all for mods that smoothen out the the shifting and rides...and I love installs that are fairly easy (I am dreading the header install when it is time)

So how long would you say the whole install took???

Also, does it come with instructions??? Are they good???

Another happy install, my car really does have a third gear where it's suppose to be. 6300 power shift and a hard scatch .

I now have mine also. Was going to do it myself but needed an inspection so I figured while they had it on the lift... Anyway, This is well worth the money. You may not see it, but when you no longer have to poke around for third gear, you know it is there. Chalk up another one for the stuff you can learn about in this forum.

Group buy...$145 shipped...See post #7

http://www.modularfords.com/forums/2005-mustang/che-k-memeber-brace-with-engine-torque-limiters-64078.html

Group Buy (http://www.modularfords.com/forums/2005-mustang/che-k-memeber-brace-with-engine-torque-limiters-64078.html)

Edit:

Guess lateral communication is not condoned around here. PM me if you want in...

You can see censored posts by selecting the quote button on that post. That said it appears to only be 10$ off.

$10 off with free shipping so you save about $18

Ohh I thought powerhouse had free shipping. They did when I ordered it.

Not normally also their normal price is $160 so that is still a $15 savings which is better than nothing IMO.

I recall my previous statements. I didnt connect the dots between sites. I didnt realize who Kevin@PMP was. As long as I read between the lines correctly hes the way to go. :D

EDIT: My original reluctance was because I didnt think I had dealt with PMP and I had very good luck with powerhouse, After reading things a little closer I know PMP would be a great vendor to deal with.

My buddy put these on and it feels like he is putting more torque to the wheels

It definatly has more of a jerk to it when you first hit the pedal. It makes that initial snap noticibly more agressive.

Man, I swap between Bama's Racer Tune and Brenspeed's 93 tune and 1st - 2nd/2nd - 3rd are monsters. I can just imagine what it's going to feel like when I get this installed. Gotta get some slicks for the track!!!

I feel the same thing. It feels tighter when the car is started and that initial snap in first gear feels like a harder pull. Even if this is some placebo effect, between this mod and the CAI with a tune, really great $$$$ to performance gains. The next logical thing would be a SC, and that is getting harder and harder to resist as the days go on.

I feel the same thing. It feels tighter when the car is started and that initial snap in first gear feels like a harder pull. Even if this is some placebo effect, between this mod and the CAI with a tune, really great $$$$ to performance gains. The next logical thing would be a SC, and that is getting harder and harder to resist as the days go on.

ORIGINAL: cyberjock4hire

I feel the same thing. It feels tighter when the car is started and that initial snap in first gear feels like a harder pull. Even if this is some placebo effect, between this mod and the CAI with a tune, really great $$$$ to performance gains. The next logical thing would be a SC, and that is getting harder and harder to resist as the days go on.


so your saying, when you start the car up you can feel the car shake aggressively for a quick 1/2 a second?

my only concern about this mod is that over time, the bolts on the tranny where the torque limiters are connected to will eventually fail. that is alot of torque for those tranny bolts to take imo. don't get me wrong, I like the che k-member and I'm not knocking it, just worried about those bolts holding up after hard launches.

Those bolts aren't taking anymore load than they are supposed to, they are already there to connect the motor to the trans and that takes a lot of torque as is.

Thanks 1QuickShortBus for hooking me on good deal on the brace!

05Hotrod, I know what you are saying but it seems as if the design will prevent that. With the way the torque limiters are connected to the k-member with the bushings and the way that the bell housing bolts can pivot, it looks as if the design was well engineered. If it was a more rigid structure, I probably would not have installed them.
These have been used by drag racers initially and then caught on to the rest of the world, probably because of this thread.
I intend to keep an eye on this setup as part of routine maintanance. I do have confidence and the original parts as well.
As far as what I am saying about the start, upon startup there is less of a shake but a more solid feeling. Someone here posted that a side effect of this install was the fact that his shaker hood stopped shaking.

That would be me with the shaker...


I also bave been checking these regularly and have seen no issues. I just do not see the block or A Arm bolt failing before the bushings or the torque limiters themselves. The toque limiters use a fairly small bolt for adjustment. I beleive this or the bushings would failt far before the block. I have not made a FEM model or anything to prove that, but that is my initial opinion.

I'm still curious as to how long the install took?????

The install shouldn't take more than an hour or so.

what tools do you need? I know one of the tools is a 21mm or 22mm wrench....right?

OK ..i installed it over this last weekend...i am not a Pro...took my time underneath a jacked up car with little room to work....

I would say it took about a good hour to install....My problem was getting a open end wrench that would fit the 21 mm Nut..but once i got one from a nieghbor it was pretty much straight foward...Directions are pretty good but could be a little more clear...

Test drove it for the first time and i felt a immediate improvement across the board...i know this was designed with WOT shifts but even with regular driving the shifting is 100% better, feels like i have a after market shifter, whch it is not..... its Stock...

I totally recommend this MOD...I am 100% satisfied...highly recommend...

Its the little MODS that no one sees are usually the ones that really stand out..

Does anyone have any updates? I just ordered mine from powerhouse411.com yesterday.

Make sure you specify which one you need. They sent me one for a V-6 but I need one for a V-8. I'll have to call them tomorrow.

ORIGINAL: Timmay!!!

The kit should come with longer bolts. I just ordered mine today along with a few other goodies from CHE. Can't wait as these will be the last parts I need before I tear into my suspension. Next weekend could be a big mod weekend for the GT. I would try to sell my G-Trac but who would buy it with this product on the market.


So this CHE K Member Brace w/ Torque Limiters does the same thing (does it better) than the Steeda G-Trac? Just want to make sure before I order all my Steeda Suspension parts....this thread has convinced me to pick this CHE piece up...don't want to waste money on the same thing (G Trac) if it isn't as good.

They do the same thing except this piece adds the torque limiters aswell, and for most the torque limiting is a major bonus. I would not have bought either for handling. I was looking for the torque limiting ability.

would this have an affect on an automatic

It would still limit the torque, but I dont see a hude advantage to that since you dont have to worry about finding gears.

I just looked at a buddies GT with Kooks catted LTs. They definately sit below the frame rail, by 1/2 to 3/4". Still wondering if this piece will clear the Kooks since Che states they won't clear the SLPs. I've sent them an email, so we'll see.

ORIGINAL: scramblr

I just looked at a buddies GT with Kooks catted LTs. They definately sit below the frame rail, by 1/2 to 3/4". Still wondering if this piece will clear the Kooks since Che states they won't clear the SLPs. I've sent them an email, so we'll see.


What is an SLP? Would like to know what potential future mod I'm trading away in favor of the Che piece.

Also...specifically....what does the K Member Brace/G-Trac do?

What specifically does the Torque limiter do?

Is the torque limiter the piece that allows you to shift without issue?

ORIGINAL: Redleg

ORIGINAL: scramblr

I just looked at a buddies GT with Kooks catted LTs. They definately sit below the frame rail, by 1/2 to 3/4". Still wondering if this piece will clear the Kooks since Che states they won't clear the SLPs. I've sent them an email, so we'll see.


What is an SLP? Would like to know what potential future mod I'm trading away in favor of the Che piece.

Also...specifically....what does the K Member Brace/G-Trac do?

What specifically does the Torque limiter do?

Is the torque limiter the piece that allows you to shift without issue?


SLPs make long tube headers, which the CHE K member brace will not clear without a fabrication mod. I understand you have to move one of the torque limiter brackets about 1/5/8 inches for it to clear the headers. Any good metal shop can do this, and can most likely be done through the performance shop that you work with. I have the SLP headers and I have the CHE K member brace coming in Tuesay, and I plan on having it modified to fit. There was a tread that contained this info.

ORIGINAL: Sherwood06GT


ORIGINAL: Redleg

ORIGINAL: scramblr

I just looked at a buddies GT with Kooks catted LTs. They definately sit below the frame rail, by 1/2 to 3/4". Still wondering if this piece will clear the Kooks since Che states they won't clear the SLPs. I've sent them an email, so we'll see.


What is an SLP? Would like to know what potential future mod I'm trading away in favor of the Che piece.

Also...specifically....what does the K Member Brace/G-Trac do?

What specifically does the Torque limiter do?

Is the torque limiter the piece that allows you to shift without issue?


SLPs make long tube headers, which the CHE K member brace will not clear without a fabrication mod. I understand you have to move one of the torque limiter brackets about 1/5/8 inches for it to clear the headers. Any good metal shop can do this, and can most likely be done through the performance shop that you work with. I have the SLP headers and I have the CHE K member brace coming in Tuesay, and I plan on having it modified to fit. There was a tread that contained this info.


Are SLPs better than other Long Tube Headers? Can I assume that if SLPs won't clear then other brands will have the same problem? Thanks.

SLP Is the only brand I have heard will not fit. I know of members with the Dynatech and the kooks headers that have no issues with the brace.

I will be ordering one of those shortly.

Dynatech and Kooks are known to be some of the top headers avalible. Not that there is anything wrong with the SLP, just there is nothing that I am aware of that would make them better.

How are they holding up? I just recieved mine, but have yet to install it. Can anyone clear up some issues that I have heard about? I am actually getting nervous for some reason.
1. they tell you to torque the bell housing bolt to tight

2. alignment of front suspension can be moved

3. are the instruction clear on which whole to put the drivers side bolt into the bell housing

1. yup do not torque it to the 85 they have in the instructions. Ford says 33 I beleive.

2. Never heard anyone talk about this and dont see why it would change the aligment. It didnt on mine.

3. when u get under there you will know where the bolts go. The instructions say just above the starter if I remember right but it is acutally below the starter. But as stated before you will know. It is almost imposible to put in the wrong one.

Mine is holding up perfect I have been under the car many times since the install. It is a very easy install.

Funny this gets brought up. Here's a pic of what happens when you torque to 85 ft-lbs. Set the wrench to 85 start going then bam…broken bolt in your bell housing. Thankfully the other end was sticking out from the back and with a small vice grip I was able to remove the small piece. Though it took 25 minutes. Now I have a grade 8 bolt from the hardware store and I’m looking for a grade 10, which seems impossible to find. I imagine I got a bad bolt because a grade 10 should hold easy at 85.

local://upfiles/27146/7655358D9AC7482B8DF95591D5C7D808.jpg

A person on another site had thier bolt break also. It seems to me the aluminum block should strip before the grade 10 bolt.

it should not break if it is torqed to the correct number:: 35 ft/lbs right?

Hey guys, go careful here. There is another post about the 85 ft/lbs being incorrect since Ford calls for 33 ft/lbs. Perhaps that is why the bolts are snapping. [:@] Apparently, CHE is being notified about this issue but I have not seen confirmation that CHE has replied. Since so many members are finding out about the advantages to installing the k member with torque limiters, can anyone check on this issue and confirm whether the bolts should be torqued to 85 ft/lbs or 33 ft/lbs.[:-]

I have the brace and limiters installed on my car....

I think the problem is that CHE used a V-6 model for the instructions...
that's why the torque specs and instructions are wrong...

it's obvious you cant use the bolt above the starter on the rt side of the engine to install the limiter because it just wont reach that lcoation....however the torque spec according to the ford manual is 33lb-ft....

I dont know where they got 85lb-ft...
I believe it's possible that CHE, because they used the V6 (which i think is an iron block), read the ford specs for that block and assumed it would be the same for the GT which is an aluminum block, but never checked it against a V8 aluminum block for the actual torque specs and the install location on the GT....

BOTTOM LINE:

Do not tigthen then to 85lb-ft or you are likely to break the bolt, or given the amount of stress that the bolt absorbs during corners likely to strip the block or break it durning cornering...
Tight it to b/n 33lb-ft to 40lb-ft or so and you should be ok..
ORIGINAL: sport55

Hey guys, go careful here. There is another post about the 85 ft/lbs being incorrect since Ford calls for 33 ft/lbs. Perhaps that is why the bolts are snapping. [:@] Apparently, CHE is being notified about this issue but I have not seen confirmation that CHE has replied. Since so many members are finding out about the advantages to installing the k member with torque limiters, can anyone check on this issue and confirm whether the bolts should be torqued to 85 ft/lbs or 33 ft/lbs.[:-]

IF YOU HAVE: BMR K-Member and want to put the CHE brace with the torque limiters on, here's what I did:

I put the CHE bar with the torque braces on my car. I have the BMR K-Member and I suggest you cut 1 1/4" off of the top of the tube to make it clear the ground better, AVOID having to get longer bolts. As you can see in this picture it is above the K-Member. Had I not cut 1 3/8" off of it it would have been the lowest thing under my car. With the 1 3/8" cut off I only had 1 1/2 turns left in the turnbuckle adjustment, so you may want to try a 1 1/4" cut first.

local://upfiles/33274/A2EB377ACD014E6298E97B29F999B3D4.jpg

I know that no body here has had problems, but dosn't anyone think that this part puts a lot of stress on the bolts especially under hard launches.

Not really I dont have the specs at home but the sheer strength of a bolt that large is going to be very high and the boss it mounts to in the block is quite a chunk of aluminum.

I looked in my Ford manual to verify and it says 33ft/lbs for the torque limiter bolts. If anyone needs I can send the pdf.

Just installed mine. There is definently a little more kick when you hit the gas. One thing that seems wierd is that it actually seems more notchy shifting through gears. It feels like it is stiffer getting in to each gear. I am thinking that maybe I need to put some grease on my Saleen shifter and loosen up the bolt on it.

Did you adjust the limiters after they were installed and maybe angle the trans over a little? Just a shot in the dark as to why it might get more notchy.

ORIGINAL: 4wheelkillr

I have the brace and limiters installed on my car....

I think the problem is that CHE used a V-6 model for the instructions...
that's why the torque specs and instructions are wrong...

I dont know where they got 85lb-ft...
I believe it's possible that CHE, because they used the V6 (which i think is an iron block), read the ford specs for that block and assumed it would be the same for the GT which is an aluminum block, but never checked it against a V8 aluminum block for the actual torque specs and the install location on the GT....SO, if I decide to get this mod for my V6 manual (would like smoother 2-3 shifting and a tighter car), I would guess the torque specs would be 85 lbs-ft as in the instructions? Any help here?

This thread has been very imformative from all involved. I just don't happen to have a GT. ;) Thanks.

V6 appears to have to same torque spec as the GT. See image below. If it were me I would go a hair more. 40 or so.

local://upfiles/20416/E22C0AF237C14AB68305F0E0C89197C7.jpg

For reference here is the GT spec incase anyone doesnt trust the net.

local://upfiles/20416/774903C832044C5EB651B6AB9B8991EB.jpg

After reading this thread, I ordered my K-member brace and torque limiters tonight. Thanks for all the good info Riven.

Np man

I got the shipping info from Powerhouse today, my new K-mamber brace and torque limiters will be here Fri. I'm like a little kid eagerly awaiting Christmas morning.

A quick question about the install Riven: you said it wasn't hard to install, but it sounds like you have quite a bit of experience working on cars. How difficult would it be for a layman? I'm fine with basic tools and installed my own CAI, but haven't had a lot of exp. working on cars in general. What are your thoughts about install?

Paint me a bit confused still.

If I were to buy the K Member Brace alone (no Torque limiters)....what would the ride effect be like? Does it stiffen the chassis and improve handling? Will the K Member Brace alone help me with the shift to 3rd gear? Or is it the addition of the Torque limiters that do that?

You will definitly need the Torque limiteres...thats really were this part shines....The K-member alone wont do much of anything..

ORIGINAL: superiormirage

I got the shipping info from Powerhouse today, my new K-mamber brace and torque limiters will be here Fri. I'm like a little kid eagerly awaiting Christmas morning.

A quick question about the install Riven: you said it wasn't hard to install, but it sounds like you have quite a bit of experience working on cars. How difficult would it be for a layman? I'm fine with basic tools and installed my own CAI, but haven't had a lot of exp. working on cars in general. What are your thoughts about install?


It is very simple to install. You will need a couple real large metric wrenches. (21mm and 22mm) I had to go buy those. Other than that it is just 6 bolts 8 if you include the torque limiter adjustment. The large bolts will take some elbow grease to break loose, but if you hook a couple open end box end wenches together youll get it. Be sure not to torque to the spec in the install sheet. I would go 40 ft lbs. Ford says 33 but I gave it a little more since I was going though the TLs.


And of course you will need a jack and stands.

Sounds simply enough. I just spent the last 3 hours under my car installing new axle-backs, so I think I can handle it. Thanks again, Riven

I have my car jacked up right now, waiting for my exhaust to cool down so I can install my K-member brace and limiters. I am pumped. I'll post pics once I finish.

ORIGINAL: Riven02

I looked in my Ford manual to verify and it says 33ft/lbs for the torque limiter bolts. If anyone needs I can send the pdf.

I wish I had got the memo...I just snapped one of the bolts off following CHE's instructions [sm=boohoo.gif] [sm=headbang.gif] I can't be certain of the torque wrenches accuracy but the shop I use takes pretty good care of their equipment. In any case 85 ft-lbs was just too much. Hopefully I can get into a machine shop Monday and have them drill out the rest of the bolt. And I couldn't find an exact replacement bolt so if this one doesn't thread hopefully they can tap a new hole or I can find some washers and use the 100mm bolt.

But even with only one torque limiter installed there was still an improvement. While I by no means got on it even a little a lot of the slack and slop in the tranny while shifting is gone. And they are no issues driving(limping) around like I thought there might be with only one T-limiter. Only reason I didn't take the other out is for fear of snapping it on the way out. I do feel more vibes on start-up but I can deal with that. Can't wait till I get the other limiter installed.

Question for all you guys that have the K-member brace and limiters installed:

The first few days were fine, my smoother shifts and much less bucking when shifiting. After taking my 'stang to the track Thurs. night, I notice now a slight vibration in the shifter (which wasn't there before), and a slight vibration in the floorboards where my feet are. Again, nothing major, but definately new. Any thoughts on what it could be? Would you think this has anything to do with the limiter/brace? Or am I on the wrong track?

Well all the vibes that used to get soaked up by the motor mounts had to go somewhere. Maybe you should check the torque on everything and make sure nothing has come loose. I already feel more vibes in the shifter but like in you case nothing major. I kinda welcome it, makes me feel like I'm driving a car with some power behind it.

I never noticed any more vibrations. However, I am not sure I would notice if they were small. I drive a 65 mustang with a fairly rough idle due to the cam, so I am used to alot of vibration. :D

Update on the vibration: climbed under my car today and figured out the reason I was getting such bad vibrations was the driverside torque limiter had come loose. I tightened it down REAL well and problem solved.

ORIGINAL: superiormirage

Update on the vibration: climbed under my car today and figured out the reason I was getting such bad vibrations was the driverside torque limiter had come loose. I tightened it down REAL well and problem solved.


Funny how sometimes it is the little stuff that causes the biggest headaches and pains.[sm=signs007.gif]

This thread persuaded me to go with the Che K-Member and torque limiters so I thought I'd contribute a quick report after they were installed today.

My overall impresion is definitely positive. The stubborn second-to-third shift at >4k is now much better but still not as great as I had hoped. It's now perfectly manageable but I'm finding there to be no alternative than to learn the Mustang two-step, i.e. push the shifter fast out of second, ease the pressure momentarily then notch it into third. It's not the buttery-smooth, continuous action that I had on my last stick, a Lotus Elan Turbo, but the Mustang GT has a much more powerful engine so perhaps I should expect the shift to be a little harsher...

I think part of the problem of less-than-optimal shifting is with the stock tune's throttle lag, so I'm about to address that (somewhat expensively) via an aftermarket tune. However, I'm glad I did the K-member and torque limiters, as, while it has not completely removed the stubbornness of the second-to-third shift, it has improved it. Certain mechanical sounds on start-up and at idle are louder and there is somewhat more vibration; both of these things would bother me in a BMW, but not in a Mustang V8. Finally, I'm pretty sure I'm getting a bit more torque delivered to the wheels.

Those of you who have tested the mod at WOT: By WOT do you mean foot-to-the-floor shifting at red-line? When do you get the chance to do that from second to third in street driving? 4k-5k shifts feel pretty aggressive to me; does that make me a girly man?

I think u are right about some of the shifting problems are due to the stock tune. The hanging revs and throttle lag were a pain in the ass. A good tune is priceless.

WOT means wide open throttle. So yes pedal on the floor. As far as where to get on it. On ramps and rural roads are always fun. Track is always the best place.

And YES!!! shifting at 4-5k means you wear a dress. [sm=burnout.gif]

[sm=icon_cheers.gif]

ORIGINAL: Riven02

I think u are right about some of the shifting problems are due to the stock tune. The hanging revs and throttle lag were a pain in the ass. A good tune is priceless.

WOT means wide open throttle. So yes pedal on the floor. As far as where to get on it. On ramps and rural roads are always fun. Track is always the best place.

And YES!!! shifting at 4-5k means you wear a dress. [sm=burnout.gif]

[sm=icon_cheers.gif]






DEFINITELY not trying to take this string off track, but has anybody that has made this mod found that it also fixed the dredded front end clunking sound so many have complained of? [not the one fixed by the '05 tsb, but the one that Ford is allegedly trying to discover a fix for].

thanks!

Hello, i am just getting ready to buy the K-Member Brace W/Torque Limiters (http://www.mustangforums.com/m_1832846/tm.htm), what one do I get, they have two on there site, i have a GT. Thanks for everyones help

ORIGINAL: wentw1tj5773

Hello, i am just getting ready to buy the K-Member Brace W/Torque Limiters (http://www.mustangforums.com/m_1832846/tm.htm), what one do I get, they have two on there site, i have a GT. Thanks for everyones help


Wherever you order it, get the one listed as "4.6L V8". That's how CHE has it listed.

http://www.cheperformance.com/cartgenie/prodInfo.asp?pid=208&cid=15

ORIGINAL: Riven02

It comes with 2. One of the pics only shows 1 because I was just showing how it went together and what it looked like apart. If you look at the installed pics both are installed.

local://upfiles/20416/44FA0A29A14B496893717AA73B88355D.jpg


So does this fit with your LT's? Someone else said that their LT's were hitting them[&:]