Front Shocks

adileo

adileo

Well-known member
Hi

I have a 39 coupe that's been converted to tube shocks. I'm looking to replace the fronts.

If anyone can suggest good replacements, I'd appreciate it.

Thanks
 
Flatehead 53 - I already did what you suggested and NAPA was not helpful. When I showed them the old shock - They said they wanted the year and make of car. When I told them what it was - they said sorry can't help you.

Boss1940 - Thanks but the previous owner said "much better ride with tube shocks" and never go backwards with technology. If lever shocks were better we would still be using them")
 
Are there any part numbers on your current shocks? They often have them stamped in during manufacture. You should be able to determine the compressed and extended dimensions fairly easily (travel), so weight would be the unknown. Also believe there are recommend shocks for various modifications. Is everything else basically stock, engine, axles, etc?

Edit:

http://www.shockwarehouse.com/news/pdf/monroe-shock-lengths.pdf

http://www.shockwarehouse.com/news/pdf/kyb-shock-lengths.pdf

Might call one of the shock companies (after you have the shock measurements) and ask for there recommendations.
 
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If your shocks have an "eye' mount on each end measure the center to center "ride height" of the current shock. As an example the measurement may be 12". So now you want a shock with an extended length of 14-15" and a compressed length of around 9". A good auto parts store should be able to use those measurements to find you a shock. My 41 pickup has the old aftermarket brackets for tube shocks on it and I was able to use the shocks from a mid 60's Volkswagen bus. I have an old shock book so I was able to research it myself before I went to the local Napa store.
 
If you like to give me a call / message .i would be happy to give you the proper shock dimensions ,travel ,and type of shock required for your car given the parameters in which you have. However , if the original lever shocks are built properly and functioning as per design they are far more superior . .
 
Boss1940 said:
If you like to give me a call / message .i would be happy to give you the proper shock dimensions ,travel ,and type of shock required for your car given the parameters in which you have. However , if the original lever shocks are built properly and functioning as per design they are far more superior . .
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I agree. I tried tube shocks on my '41 . Went back to stock rotary shocks. Far better ride and they're not even rebuilt. Have to top off the oil once a year but no big deal. Also found hair line cracks in my frame, around the mounting holes, after I installed the mounts for the tube shocks
 
I respectfully disagree. I replaced my lever with tubes and believe the ride is much better. They are also much more economic to replace.

But I guess that's why we all don't drive black Fords and are all not married to the same woman.
 
Were the lever shocks working proper & replaced with new tube shocks or where they indeed worn out and replaced with new tube shocks?

Not trying to start a argument ( I AIN'T GOT TIME FOR THAT ) just curious !!!
 
I posted earlier the NAPA # that I used on my '40 pickup. That is the same set up as the '47-48. I can't think yours is much different. Did you ask NAPA if they could get you the # I use?? If so, you could compare the two!
 
Hi Bill no offense taken. I have three cars 2 with lever one with tube. My humble opinion is the ride is better with tube.
 
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