rear shocks 1938 cad 60S

[dorrsulee]

Has anyone replaced the original shocks with the modern type on a 1938 cad 60 S??  Would like specs or ideas on such. thanks  Leroy Dorf

[hudson29]

I too would be interested in this if the modification were totally reversible, no cutting or drilling of the car. I have seen this done with Hudsons and the results are impressive.

Vintage Paul

[dorrsulee]

I too would be interested in this if the modification were totally reversible, no cutting or drilling of the car. I have seen this done with Hudsons and the results are impressive.

Vintage Paul

Ive temporarily added modern shocks to the rear of my cad with no drilling or cutting.  They really made a difference as the stock shocks were shot. I have more road testing to do and also will have to make special bolts to finalize the job. The stock shocks do not have to be removed. Will keep you posted after further tests. leroy

[dorrsulee]

Has anyone replaced the original shocks with the modern type on a 1938 cad 60 S??  Would like specs or ideas on such. thanks  Leroy Dorf

Ive temporarily added modern shocks to the rear of my cad with no drilling or cutting.  They really made a difference as the stock shocks were shot. I have more road testing to do and also will have to make special bolts to finalize the job. The stock shocks do not have to be removed. Will keep you posted after further tests. leroy

[Steve Passmore]

Whats the specifications of these shocks and what are they originally made to fit?

[joeceretti]

It would be VERY nice to see some pictures and parts info.   

[dorrsulee]

OK guys. What Ive used is a pair of gabriel shocks 61522 for a dodge van b150 ram.
extended length is 20.49 inches, compressed length is12.63 inches and stroke is 7.86 inches.  I got these on e bay from fruitridge automotive for $39.95.  All Ive done so far is replace the rod that connects the original shock to the *(rear spring) with these shocks.
  I use 1/2 inch bolts temporary as the original bolts are tapered.  I might go to a different shock that has a 5/8 eye (mine are 1/2 ") to machine the taper from 5/8 to 1/2" thread to fit the original equipment properly.  As for now The original shocks arms are still in use.  I plan to secure them rigid which should be better.
     I hope I didnt jump the gun so to speak as Im still experimenting . Another problem is the old axle U bolts have stretch so need tightened to give proper clearance for the shocks.   Will get some pics later. leroy 

*(made correction : spring not frame)
     

[hudson29]

Thanks Leroy, that does give us a little better picture of what you are up to. What sort of Caddie are you working on?

I look forward to hearing and seeing more about this!

Vintage Paul

[Steve Passmore]

What sort of Caddie are you working on?

Vintage Paul

As per the heading on this thread I would think Paul.  1938 Cadillac 60S.

[hudson29]

As per the heading on this thread I would think Paul.  1938 Cadillac 60S.

Thanks Steve, quite right you are!

Vintage Paul

[Paul Phillips]

I'm ok with this if you are going down the slippery slope of the Modified path. Given that there are still rebuilders out there for original shocks (Apple et al) there is not a 'have to' reason for this either. All depends on where you want to end up.

Paul

[joeceretti]

I agree with Paul. My shocks are good and the ride is excellent. I do like that this does not modify... no destructive drilling or welding. So, not quite modified. But also not really necessary.

[Steve Passmore]

Different for those of us who are not in the USA, There are no rebuilders of this type of shock here in the UK that you can trust. I have rebuilt a few myself but getting new shafts  made and modifying the casting for available seals is a time consuming job so as a temporary solution I love the idea its reversible every easily

[las39]

I have these pics lying around. Maybe they can help somebody.

[dorrsulee]

I have these pics lying around. Maybe they can help somebody.

Thanks for the pics. Ive been wondering what is better if any having the shocks at a angle or vertical. I think most vehicles are at a angle such as you have done. I mounted mine vertical and seem to be ok so far. I get some pics soon of my shock installation  leroy