1965-1970 Classic Mustang Strut Tower Brace Install

Adding a strut tower brace should be at the top of the mod list for your Classic Mustang. They're essential because they stiffen up the front end of your chassis and reduce chassis flex. Also known as a Mustang Monte Carlo bar, a strut tower brace helps improve handling. Strut tower braces can be considered cosmetic mods too, as they improve the look of your engine bay. If you're looking to add one to another Mustang, we have strut tower brace installation guides for S197 and Fox Body as well.

Check out the video below for a step-by-step video guide to go along with this article.

How to Install a Strut Tower Brace on a Classic Mustang

In this article, we're going to install an adjustable aluminum strut tower brace from Total Control Products. This brace is designed for use on a 1965-1970 Mustang and works with stock or aftermarket suspension setups.

Parts and Tools Needed:

• 3/8" Ratchet
• 7/32" Allen Key
• 5/16" Allen Key
• 3/4" Wrench
• 9/16" Wrench
• Tape Measure
• Marker
• Drill
• 1/8" Pilot Bit
• 3/8" Drill Bit
• Safety Glasses

Tip: If your apron is damaged, warped, or otherwise not flat where you're going to be installing the strut tower brace, hammer it flat so the brackets included in the strut tower brace kit are relatively flat. You can have a bit of play, but too much is not good. Also, be sure to use something to protect your paint when hammering.

Step 1: Measure to Ensure Clearance

Before drilling any holes, use the tape measure to ensure that both brackets and strut tower bar properly clear anything in the way such as a distributor. Then, mark where you're going to drill the holes with a marker. Repeat this step on the other side.

Step 2: Drill Holes

Using the 1/8" pilot bit, drill two holes for the bracket on the inside of the engine bay. Then, take the additional support bracket and ensure it lines up with the pilot holes inside the fender. Then, widen the holes to fit the hardware that comes with the kit. Repeat this step on the other side.

Step 3: Bolt the Brackets Into Place

Bolt the brackets securely in place using the hardware supplied by the kit. Repeat this step on the other side.

Step 4: Drill More Holes

After you've secured the two brackets on either side into place, drill two more holes on the underside of the apron that line up with your additional bracket. Drill from the bottom of the apron up into the engine bay. Repeat this process on the other side.

Tip: Use a piece of painter's tape in the engine bay where you'll be drilling the holes to protect your paint.

Step 5: Bolt Additional Bracket Into Place

Bolt the additional bracket into place using the hardware supplied with the kit. Repeat this process on the other side.

Step 6: Assemble the Strut Tower Brace

Thread the lock nut onto the end link. Then, screw the end link into place on the strut tower bar. Repeat this process on the other side.

Tip: Put a small dab of anti-seize on the threads to prevent seizing if you need to remove the bar later.

Step 7: Put the Strut Tower Brace Into Place

Drop the strut tower bar into place on the mounting brackets and ensure everything fits properly.

Step 8: Bolt the Strut Tower Brace Into Place

Bolt the strut tower bar into place using the supplied hardware in the kit.

Step 9: Adjust the Strut Tower Brace

Ensure that both lock nuts have the same threads showing on either side. Tighten them down to properly adjust the strut tower bar.

Congratulations, you're all done!

Improved Chassis Rigidity and Handling

A strut tower brace is a great mod to install on any Classic Mustang. They greatly improve chassis rigidity. Drilling holes in your precious ride can scare many enthusiasts but the results are well worth it. If you're looking to improve handling even more, check out our Mustang suspension upgrades to tear up the backroads with ease.