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Old 12-16-2018, 06:55 PM   #1
hb32
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Default Reproduction Houdaille shocks

I bought 4 used reproduction shocks that are available at places like Macs. There was not much friction and leakage issues so I took them apart to inspect. These are the ones with no adjustment and they are a sealed unit meaning the reservoir is only cosmetic. All look good internally and managed to source the proper o rings. Any idea what fluid to refill them with ? Read lots on different specs and 50 weight oil is not thick enough. Hoping to find something local at a auto parts store.
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Old 12-16-2018, 07:09 PM   #2
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

Not sure but the original shocks used caster oil (not sure of spelling)
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Old 12-16-2018, 07:22 PM   #3
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

The originals used glycerine
The only repo worth having are Stipe
Imho
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Old 12-16-2018, 10:17 PM   #4
Mike V. Florida
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

There are three manufacturers of the shocks. Two are re designs of the original that are sealed units. The last one (the most expensive) are made exactly like the original ones. You can even change out the covers for original covers to make them look like originals.


How about Hydraulic Jack Oil,
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Last edited by Mike V. Florida; 01-04-2019 at 01:40 AM. Reason: spelling
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Old 12-16-2018, 11:38 PM   #5
hb32
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

The ones I have are sealed.
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Old 12-17-2018, 11:20 AM   #6
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

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If you have already asked Macs, and the rebuilder, You could try the people listed in the " Model A/AA Ford Websites...Can YOU add to the list?" on this forum.


SHOCKS
1. www.applehydraulics.com Apple Hydraulics (New York)
2. http://antiqueshockabsorbers.com/ M & S Hydraulics (Oregon)
3. www.specialtymotorcams.com Specialty Motor Cams (Wisconsin)
4. No known website: Robert Paul (719-478-5102) (Colorado)
5. No known website: John Holland (330-483-3896) (Ohio)
6. www.stipemachine.com Bill Stipe (920-467-2895) (Wisconsin)
7. www.classicautoshocks.com (Five Points) (California)
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Old 12-17-2018, 12:33 PM   #7
Benson
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks-Stipe shocks oil used in them

The data sheet that came with Stipe shocks says to use:

Full Synthetic Hydraulic oil 30 to 40 weight.

Only fill to within 1/16th inch of bottom of filler hole ...

Leave air to allow for expansion.

Reseal plug with SMALL amount of sealer.

Last edited by Benson; 01-04-2019 at 11:13 AM. Reason: updates added
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Old 12-17-2018, 12:47 PM   #8
hb32
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

Quote:
Originally Posted by Benson View Post
THe data sheet that came with Stipe shocks says to use:

Full Synthetic Hydraulic oil 30 to 40 weight.

Only fill to within 1/16th inch of bottom of filler hole ...

Leave air to allow for expansion.

Reseal plug with SMALL amount of sealer.
Thanks for the info and now need to source locally.
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Old 01-02-2019, 04:35 PM   #9
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

I just ordered 4 new shocks from stipemachine.com (Wis) and now looking forward to their arrival. I used the Forum search to help figure out what best suits me although after a lot of discussion back in 2017 the topic fell to the side. After all the reading it appeared that Stipes may have quit making their quality (albeit expensive) shocks. So when I called and the phone was answered I got a little anxious. When she told me they indeed had a set ready to go I was quite happy, and ordered a set straightaway. I guess the purpose of this post is to let people like me know the Stipes shocks are still available.
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Old 01-03-2019, 10:58 AM   #10
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

Quote:
Originally Posted by hb32 View Post
The ones I have are sealed.
If'n they're sealed, how does one put fluid in?
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Old 01-03-2019, 11:03 AM   #11
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

you have to fill the chamber while assembling. I too use synthetic. if they start leaking they will be dry in no time.
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Old 01-03-2019, 11:42 AM   #12
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Default Re: Reproduction Houdaille shocks

Prior owner installed the repro's like yours with sealed chamber; leaked and couldn't adjust them. Sorry but not worth the money. As stated, though $$$$, go with the Stipe shocks or oil filled (not gas charged ) tube shock kits. Shock absorber fluids available from Penrite for vane type shocks.
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