Model A shocks

There are a couple of rebuilders other than BB. They all have the specialized tools to "take apart" the shock (i.e. typically a 4' specialized wrench which "encircles" the cover.)

And even so, the interior condition of the shock frequently doesn't warrant anything other than bushing out and re-building.

There has been some information about rebuilding shocks published. There are plugs to be driven out and replaced, holes to be sure they are "clear", and internal parts which are not by themselves "rebuildable" and have to be replaced wholesale with new oversized components. "Billet" is frequently mentioned for these parts.

One rebuilder will take on shocks but will not guarantee 60-40 action (which is correct) and the shocks frequently end up 50-50. (or 100-0)

So it's not really a task for the home-rebuilder - even though the parts houses frequently sell the entire "gasket set" to those in learning mode. A good write-up of the challenge is shown at https://files.secure.website/wscfus/10576359/26724601/model-a-shocks.pdf

There have been houdaillie type shocks "recreated" by various makers. I believe it was M&S who were less successful, but another whose name escapes me was highly thought of.

And - an alternative might be "friction shocks" which served well as replacement units in the 40's and 50's. Friction shocks MIGHT be considered inferior substitutes, but they actually have some theoretical recommendation if one considers them in "optimal vibrating system" terms.

AND - there are the various Fiat and other shocks (mostly European lever shocks) which can be used, sometimes without modification.

Or even Tubular Monroes - with all the modifications required to your chassis/running gear.

If you decide to go without shocks - DON'T lubricate your leaf springs.

Joe K
 
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I had them years ago, and got rid of them. Got a set of oil filled tubular shocks from the late RainMaker Ron. Since I drive my car it was the way to go! Oh, I might add, I have also replaced my front spring.

However, if a person is going after a "100 point car" I understand the desire to use the knee-action shocks.

I think Joe is right, from what I have heard over the years this is not a project for the average person.
 
Shock rebuilder: John Holland 330-483-3896
7208 West Law Rd.
Valley City, OH 44280
(Holland also rebuilds vacuum wiper motors)

John is quite competent and reasonably priced.
 
Dick M said:
Shock rebuilder: John Holland 330-483-3896
7208 West Law Rd.
Valley City, OH 44280
(Holland also rebuilds vacuum wiper motors)

John is quite competent and reasonably priced.
Click to expand...

I second John Holland, he did a set for me I sent him 4 from my 29 tudor, but only two were rebuildable. but he had a couple of good cores on hand which were suitable for rebuilding.
 
Mentioned above about “re-bushing” shocks…that doesn’t solve much. A shock has 13 wear surface all interdependent on each other. I am a former rebuilder and quit because about 1 in 10 had a fighting chance…..but I’d disassembled 10!
Don’t expect 60-40 action unless starting with a really good shock (near impossible).
A lot of rebuilders get better pressure by raising viscosity of fluid…all way to all STP!
Band aid that fails quickly!
Stipe or torsion shocks is about it. Stipe pretty $$$ but very nice.
Are they out of stock these days?
 
Oldbluoval said:
Mentioned above about “re-bushing” shocks…that doesn’t solve much. A shock has 13 wear surface all interdependent on each other. I am a former rebuilder and quit because about 1 in 10 had a fighting chance…..but I’d disassembled 10!
Don’t expect 60-40 action unless starting with a really good shock (near impossible).
A lot of rebuilders get better pressure by raising viscosity of fluid…all way to all STP!
Band aid that fails quickly!
Stipe or torsion shocks is about it. Stipe pretty $$$ but very nice.
Are they out of stock these days?
Click to expand...

That's what I've read. I have not contacted to find out. Hopefully another batch will be made...
 
As Dick M said, John Holland in Ohio is the way to go.
Had him do my shocks in 2017 and 3000 miles later they are still doing their job. Before having them done, my Town Sedan was a real handful as far as handling. Now I feel confident cruising at 45 mph plus. Before that, anything over 35 could be scary depending on the road conditions.
 
Oldbluoval said:
Stipe or torsion shocks is about it. Stipe pretty $$$ but very nice.
Are they out of stock these days?
Click to expand...

I’m not sure that anyone has heard a peep from Stipe re: shocks for well over a year. I’ve had a request/order in since early 2022. No responses to multiple emails and phone calls.
 
October post says they are/were relocating. Relocating a machine shop sounds like more than I’d want to do!
 
I had a set of original Houdaille shocks rebuilt in 2016 and since have run them on my Victoria for 1455 miles. Two of the four leak and at best the shock action is barely adequate. I use my Model A's for touring, so I ditto GeneF's comment in Post #5. A conversion to tubular shocks is in the future for my Victoria and my Coupe.
 
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