It would be nice if someone could come up with a rear suspension 101 diagram like the front suspension 101 diagram. I am researching all the parts on suspension, steering and chassis that need replacing and am prioritizing what to do and in what order and then pricing out the parts. I have the front end covered quite well.

For the rear end I have identified these parts and the manufactures I am considering:
• Rear Shocks (Bilstein)
• Rear Springs( Moog)
• Sway Bar Bushings and what looks to be Links (Energy Suspension)
• Torque Arm (Edelbrock)
• Panhard Rod (Edelbrock)

I have identified subframe connectors by either Spohn or UMI as the preferred suppliers here; however, there are others to consider.

I have a few questions:
1. Are there any other parts one would consider replacing when you are doing these parts? I have seen something called control bars and trailing arms are they the same thing?
2. I do not want to lower the car so would I necessarily need an adjustable Torque Arm and Panhard Rod? The Edelbrock adjustable Panhard Rod is slightly more than the non-adjustable one so I would buy it; however, the adjustable Torque Arm is considerably more so I would buy the non-adjustable Torque Arm.
3. On Subframe connectors they look quite heavy. I was wondering if there is a tradeoff between the extra weight and the benefits from strengthening the chassis? The weight would also be a factor in shipping. Are subframe connectors something that could easily be fabricated in a machine shop in the city you live in? I suppose you would have to price out the cost to do that over the purchase price and shipping costs of prefabricated ones.
4. Is there anything else I should be considering at this time on the rear end to do with these type of parts?

 

1) You're thinking of lower control arms. They are what prevents the axle from moving forward and backward. I would upgrade them as well because the factory pieces are pretty weak.
2) I'm not entirely sure. I would think the non adjustable models would be good enough for a factory height car, but you would be able to get things better with adjustable parts. It depends on what your plans are for the car.
3) There is not much of a trade off. SFC's make a big difference.
4) I would say you're pretty much set with those parts.