Where to get better shocks?

Old Henry

Old Henry

Well-known member
I just put a pair of Monroe shocks on my 47 front end to replace previous ones that were leaking and not working and, within a month, the new Monroes are leaking. (Got them from NAPA) So, I'd like to get better ones if they're available. Any high quality tube shocks for 47 anyone?
 
Bilstien's are with little doubt the best shock available. A bit pricey but in my opinion well worth the cost.
I am certain your Monroe's are under warranty.
I run them on not only our trucks but the sports cars as well.
 
Go back for the warranty have same shocks on my 48 for 5 year now still good, Friday afternoon ones?? Laurie
 
Measure the distance of the shock mounting points with weight on the suspension. Then measure the extended and collapsed length of the shocks you have. As an example if the collapsed length is 9 inches and the extended length is 15 inches then mid range is 12 inches. Your distance between shock mounting points should also be 12 inches which gives you 3 inches of travel in either direction. If the seals are leaking I suspect that the shocks you have may be too long in the collapsed position and are bottoming out and blowing the seals. You also need to make sure all your "bump stops" are in place as the also limits downward travel of the shocks.
 
Go to Monroe shocks on line for your application. T J has it correct. I would not advise you to buy gas shocks either. Those are what tore the upper frame mount off my frame after I hit the raccoon & twisted the lower shock mount that I did not catch, also a very firm ride.
 
Non gas filled shocks are hard to find. Pete and Jakes make 2 sizes of non gas that are reasonably priced and work well. If you measure your static length ,one size might work.

John
 
I read somewhere that "over-using" shocks causes the oil inside to heat up. This destroys the rubber seals. Could be that your extensive trips on unimproved roads could be a part of your problem.
 
There are different rates on gas shocks. Some give a stiffer ride than others. I 've actually had good luck with the cheaper Napa brand gas shocks.
 
Before you do anything you need to follow TJ's advise and determine the shock travel, if you have developed a leak in your shocks and they are almost new then you are topping or bottoming them out and rupturing the seal. You need to know the operating travel of the shocks, you just cant stick any old part on or the same issue may develop.
 
DICK SPADARO said:
Before you do anything you need to follow TJ's advise and determine the shock travel, if you have developed a leak in your shocks and they are almost new then you are topping or bottoming them out and rupturing the seal. You need to know the operating travel of the shocks, you just cant stick any old part on or the same issue may develop.
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That's great advice. I might also add that as I recall the front end on OldHenry's car is drooping real bad. Most likely a worn out spring. I would think that too may put "undue" stress on a shock. Yes? No?
 
PeteVS said:
I read somewhere that "over-using" shocks causes the oil inside to heat up. This destroys the rubber seals. Could be that your extensive trips on unimproved roads could be a part of your problem.
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In a month from installation?
 
I know this is a few weeks old, but I have Monroe Matics on my '47 with no problems for a few years now. Since my car didn't have them originally I mounted the stud in the front as close to a '48 as I could, but I still measured for total compressed/open length. Which did coincide with the stock number for the front, the rear is an old bolt on kit. I had KYB Gas-a-just on the rear which are great shocks but were way too firm, so the boaty matics fit the bill.
 
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Can,t say what month, but read about a beam axle specific shock that is designed to tolerate the heat generated by our lack of travel length. I know this is a useless reference but hang on 'til tomorrow and I'll find a name.
 
A little while ago in answer to a question about 47 shock mounts, you posted a picture of the shock absorbers on the front of your car at it showed that they are mounted at a fairly wide angle for front shocks which are usually mounted nearly vertical.

Is it possible that the angle they are at is putting to much side loading on the shock absorber shafts as they are forced up and it is chewing the seals out.
 
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