Model A Ford shocks "Made in Chicago" question.
 

I thought I picked up some information on Fordbarn about Ford Script shocks that say Made in Chicago USA or something close to that were poor reproductions made in the seventies or even the sixties? I have seen several pairs now or complete sets that show the Chicago stamping and the name Houdaille not on them but seller or sellers state they are original Ford because of the stamped Ford in oval logo and that Houdaille made shocks in other locations and not just Buffalo. A couple sets are going for or have been sold for half as much as a set of Stipes that are out of stock. So am I correct that even though they say Ford if they also say Chicago Illinois they are the poorest of the shock repos or cou
ld they be Houdailles without their name on them? Thank You.

Re: Model A Ford shocks "Made in Chicago" question.
 

All the “Chicago” shocks I’ve seen over 50 years were made by Pete the Vender not Houdallie. Not a Ford supplier at all….aftermarket…reproduction..knock off what ever you wish to call them.
They were not good…..not functional. But if you want an appearance of shocks, they can act as dummies! Worth whatever scrap iron is going for to me.

Re: Model A Ford shocks "Made in Chicago" question.
 

You are correct. I got rid of the ones on my roadster. The covers are original, but the bases are cast out of bronze and so are the shock arms that came with them as a set. Bronze is worth good scrap money today, that is about the only use they have.