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09-18-2016, 06:35 PM | #1 |
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Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 293
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Shock Absorbers
I have modern tubular shocks ($325 retro kit) on my sedan. Seems to ride pretty rough. If I spent a grand on the Stipe Or Bratton shocks, would there be a noticeable difference?? Appreciate your feedback.
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09-18-2016, 07:18 PM | #2 |
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Join Date: May 2010
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Re: Shock Absorbers
I'm told there is. We're running originals and they work fine.
Plus, it would 'look better' Model A Times did a story on the new shocks from Bratton's and they gave them a big thumbs up. I'd go with them next time I needed shocks. |
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09-18-2016, 10:38 PM | #3 |
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Location: North Carolina
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Re: Shock Absorbers
I replaced my tubular shocks with Stipe shocks. Yes, there is a noticeable difference. The Stipes are not so stiff. I can't really say I like the ride of one better than the other--they are just different. I was used to a very stiff ride for many years, so the softer ride seems a little odd to me.
However, I could not stand the appearance of those ugly tube shocks on my Model A! Therefore, I had two reasons to change: the different ride quality and the appearance. I am getting used to the softer ride, and the new shocks look like they are supposed to look. I am very happy with my decision. And it's more than a grand, unless you have parts on hand. Shocks, mounting bolts, tube-type links, rubber grease seals, metal caps for the grease seals, arms, bolts for the arms. I'm not putting the prices on these things, because I don't really want to know the total. If you have time to look, good originals may be cheaper than reproduction parts. I would do it again. W. Michael |
09-19-2016, 05:57 PM | #4 |
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Location: new britain,ct 06052
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Re: Shock Absorbers
If you changed your tubular shocks to a different compression ratio and hydraulic and not gas filled you'd probably be happier. Try doing a search here , some have posted the type that worked well for them, instead of being out $325 and at least another grand for the Stipe ones. FWIW
Paul in CT If you paint the tubular ones a dull black they might also become "invisible". |
09-19-2016, 08:30 PM | #5 |
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Location: Anchorage, Alaska
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Re: Shock Absorbers
That's what I did before I ever installed them.
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09-20-2016, 02:38 PM | #6 |
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Re: Shock Absorbers
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Had a 30' Tudor sedan way back when that came equipped with aftermarket tube type shocks. Recall that those other Model A Fords having a solid ride with good handling. The shock absorber action on this current car is mostly is borderline lousy.
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09-20-2016, 03:57 PM | #7 |
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Re: Shock Absorbers
I remember, back in the 60s, J C Whitney selling a type of "Friction Shock" which fit like originals but looked different.
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09-20-2016, 06:09 PM | #8 |
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Location: Anchorage, Alaska
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Re: Shock Absorbers
That's what my truck had on it when I bought it. Only problem was that the "leathers" were either worn out or missing, so none of them worked. I took them off and replaced them with a set of Ken Davis shocks. Gave the friction shocks to a friend who knew how to fix/repair them. Win-Win!
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09-21-2016, 07:53 AM | #9 |
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Location: South East NJ
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Re: Shock Absorbers
Well that depends, Are you springs in good shape and well lubricated?
If they are flat and not springy then you may have a problem there. |
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