Installing Modern shocks

K

Kentmac

Member
Quick question. When I install modern shocks on the rear of a Model A coupe, would there be any issues if I replace the two rear bolts (crown bolts) with standard bolts and reverse the directions and use lockwasher instead of castle nuts. I am having some problems finding crown bolts.
 
I have recently installed Modern rear shocks were they require using modern bolts in the reverse direction with lock washers. No problems yet. But you do want to check them regularly as you grease to be sure they remain tight.
 
Kentmac said:
Quick question. When I install modern shocks on the rear of a Model A coupe, would there be any issues if I replace the two rear bolts (crown bolts) with standard bolts and reverse the directions and use lockwasher instead of castle nuts. I am having some problems finding crown bolts.
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if you dont mind , what are you using for rear shocks , I have none and wondering where to start? thanks
 
Use either a steel or fibre self locking nut, they work on airplanes so should be OK for our old Fords. Steel is usually use when there is heat involved.
 
I think the bolts from the rear radius rods will work and are available from the suppliers.
That is what I used to attach the brackets for Ken Davis shocks. You can check it out easily.
 
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canadian said:
if you dont mind , what are you using for rear shocks , I have none and wondering where to start? thanks
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Give Monroe 31069 a look.These are the installations I did in both my coupe and Town Sedan. They are a little stiff, but that helps you to corner.
Terry
 

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5lugnuts said:
I think the bolts from the rear radius rods will work and are available from the suppliers.
That is what I used to attach the brackets. You can check it out easily.
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This is what I used on my Ken Davis shocks.
 

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Duplicate please delete
 

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Terry said:
Give Monroe 31069 a look.These are the installations I did in both my coupe and Town Sedan. They are a little stiff, but that helps you to corner.
Terry
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thanks Terry, I have a 29 pickup, no shocks and can get a little unsafe at times.
 
I just installed 4 shocks from a well known Model A enthusiast Dick Pirkl. His shock kits directly install front and rear with no drilling or added brackets. They are very hefty and include lifetime warranty gas shocks.
Dick must keep them in stock as I received next day shipping. 4 shocks with front and rear brackets and shipping are about $350.
I installed these after installing a Mitchell overdrive and it makes the Model A Roadster handle like a modern car. 4 working shocks are a must for touring cars.

You can contact Dick here:
Richard Pirkl email:dmpirkl@charter.net phone: 608-575-7433
 

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bkensinger said:
I just installed 4 shocks from a well known Model A enthusiast Dick Pirkl. His shock kits directly install front and rear with no drilling or added brackets. They are very hefty and include lifetime warranty gas shocks.
Dick must keep them in stock as I received next day shipping. 4 shocks with front and rear brackets and shipping are about $350.
I installed these after installing a Mitchell overdrive and it makes the Model A Roadster handle like a modern car. 4 working shocks are a must for touring cars.

You can contact Dick here:
Richard Pirkl email:dmpirkl@charter.net phone: 608-575-7433
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Not sure about clamping to the radius rods; aren't some hollow ? Do you know the brand of shocks used?
 
I just today finished install the shock kit from ebay mentioned above. I chose it because there was not drilling of the front axle. I have not driven it yet, waiting to get the grease seals for the drums.
The install was pretty straight forward, BUT I would suggest looking at/ printing the user instructions on the internet (search "www.apexinds.com").
The instructions that come with the kit are minimal, both together are pretty good.
There are good tips and the visual helps in determining position of brackets, possible drilling of rear backing plate for new provided bolts.
I found all the fit well, BUT the upper front bracket bolt holes were a little small due to powder coat build up... I just threaded to bolts through the holes to preserve the coating.
Sorry for length of post.
 
I have often wondered why PASSENGER CAR shocks are designed to mount upside down.
It is counter to the laws of physics.
Race car shocks mount properly. (body up)
 
Dick Pirkl shocks are Monroe. Many members of the Model A Club in Madison WI have used these for many years without a problem.
 
Mid 60's VW shocks (pure oil , no gas charge) would fit if you have eyelets on both ends. Some variants have one eyelet and link pin on the other end. The gas charged, Monroe, etc. are usually too stiff for an A.
 
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