Shock Absorbers

[goodcar]

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.

[Jeff/Illinois]

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.

[w.michael]

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

[1931 flamingo]

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".

[CarlG]

Originally Posted by 1931 flamingo

... If you paint the tubular ones a dull black they might also become "invisible".

That's what I did before I ever installed them.

[Capt Quahog]

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There's s set of "rebuilt" factory type tin can shocks on the 31' tudor sedan we presently have. This is the first Model A Ford in a series of them owned over the decades with functioning originals. If there was more interest and money to toss around, I'd replace those quaint but weak originals with better tubular style shock absorbers.

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.

[Skeezixx]

I remember, back in the 60s, J C Whitney selling a type of "Friction Shock" which fit like originals but looked different.

[CarlG]

Originally Posted by Skeezixx

I remember, back in the 60s, J C Whitney selling a type of "Friction Shock" which fit like originals but looked different.

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!

[Kevin in NJ]

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.