What is the best method for selecting shocks after messing with the stock springs and lowering the vehicle. Measure total possible extension and compression and find something somewhere in the middle so that you don't bottom the shock out or over extend it or? Is there some web site that gives you data with model numbers for the different shock companies out there? What brand do you gents favor? Local parts store carries Gabriel and Monroe and has decent prices but isn't too good at helping with selection if you've modified the vehicle.

Is there any advantage to buying shocks with a "helper" spring - Monroe used to sell shocks called "Loadlevelers" that incorporated a coilover type spring that came into play once the shock was compressed to aid the stock springs. My Dad always put them on his Buicks - he was a rock hound and regularly loaded the trunk with rocks and really gave them a workout - any advantage to using something like that on the rear of our classic trucks?

All help, comments and opinions are appreciated!

Leaks

 

Oil Leaks,

First off, I hope you are weathering the series of hurricanes in Florida well and that you and your loved one's are all safe.

Regarding the shocks, after lowering my '59's (aka, Butch) rear 2.5" by de-arching the springs and the front a good 3-3.5" via the IFS, I went with Monroe SensaTrac shocks all the way around. I did what you first listed (measure the range of travel) for fitment. I guess my local auto supply store guys are more customer service oriented than yours 'cuz they referenced a Monroe catalog and found the right fit.

If all else fails, E-mail Monroe (or whatever brand you chose to go with), give them your range of travel and vehicle suspension info and they should gladly E-mail you back in a day or so. Or, if they have an 800 customer service number, call and ask them directly for a quicker response.

Anyway, good luck with the shocks... but more importantly, hope you fare well through the storms.

Best,
Butch n Me

 

"Measure total possible extension and compression and find something somewhere in the middle so that you don't bottom the shock out or over extend it or?"

Yes, that is a good method. Err slightly on the short side if necessary. If they bottom out on compression they are toast. Full extension usually doesn't break them. Any decent parts store will have a buyers guide with specs listed.

Using a gas shock as Daryl recommends is a good plan IMO. I don't think you will like the ride of a coil over shock at all if we are talking half ton truck that is empty most of the time.

 

Thanks for the feedback gents! I talked with a gearhead buddy from Tampa last night and he steered me to a CarQuest store that has a salesperson who is "Hot Rod" friendly who will work with you - I think they handle Gabriel shocks. I'll probably give my local guys another shot but will do some homework on the Monroe / Gabriel / Bilstein (pricey but good) sites first.

Regards the hurricanes - I work for an electric utility company and I've just about now got over being pooped from the last round of 18 hour days. My wife is REALLY not looking forward to being without power again (it's HOT in Florida right now and the AC is a very good thing) but is a tough lady and will be okay. The house is battened down and we are prepared. God has been good to us as the thing has basically sat off the coast and lost a lot of strength - hope it doesn't get strong again before it comes ashore but...as they say, this too shall pass and it's all just a part of living in Florida. We're just waiting for the storm at this point.

Thanks for the feedback and concerns - nice to know I'm on the right track and I agree with the gas shocks thoughts - the only way to go.

Leaks