Originally posted by Auto-X Fil:
If you use rod-ends everywhere, there's no way you should get binding.
Obviously, you don't understand how multi link suspension geometry works.
There are 3 different arms of 3 different lengths per side. Each one carves an arc when it moves through it's range of motion. As the wheel/tire assembly moves up and down and the suspension moves away from the neutral point (level), the arc causes the length in reference to the other arms to shorten/lengthen. At the extreme points of compression and/or rebound the arms are pulling against each other. The Ford suspension engineers actually used this characteristic to make the rear suspension toe in when cornering.
Rod ends simply allow a bit of angularity, typically 10-13 degrees. The do absolutely nothing for modifying suspension geometry. The only suspension design which does not have bind is a twin A arm.
You can limit suspension travel (& bind) by using really stiff springs, but the ride will be crap. Now this is unimportant if the car is for track use or your roads are billiard table smooth. But not where winter includes freeze-thaw and the roads are potholed (like here).
If you want to see a good job on the rr suspension, look at the Jag X type. Same chassis, very different rr suspension. We're stuck with what Ford has given us.
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