shock absorber substitutions-37 sedan

[divyguy]

I recently purchased a 37 silver streak sedan deluxe 8.  I am in the process of rebuilding the brake cylinders, pads, hoses etc.  My next focus is on the suspension.  Does anyone know if I can replace the REAR shocks with a readily available modern shock?  The rear shocks look very similar to todays shocks but maybe they  cannot be upgraded.  Any advice would be appreciated.   Thanks!

[Frosty]

I see no reason why you cannot use a modern shock on a car that old. You simply need to measure the length you need for your ride.

How to Measure Shocks

A shock is measured by its extended and collapsed lengths, and is measured from the center of the loop mount or the base of the stud mount. To get the extended length of a shock, remove it from the vehicle and allow it to expand on its own or pull it to the fully extended position and take a measurement. To get the collapsed length of a shock, compress it by hand or by using a strap and take a measurement. With the expanded and collapsed lengths of your current shocks, you will be able to find a suitable shock for your custom application.

[divyguy]

Thanks for the reply Frosty.  I'll remove the shocks, measure as you suggested, and head to NAPA!

[Frosty]

Happy to help. Let us know what you end up with and why decided on what you bought.

[divyguy]

Frosty

I found a pair of new shocks on ebay that fit my '37 perfectly.  Only $115 a pair.  These were not NOS shocks. I would assume the seller had already done the measurement homework and knew these would fit.  Dormans universal shock bolt pkg completed the job.  NAPA wanted $300 for a pair vehicle specific shocks sold under their vintage line.

Now my next question....Do you know where I can find any info on servicing or refilling the fron knee action shocks on the '37?  I've got a factory manual that briefly describes the shock and just says to refill occassionally.  No details on how to refill, what fluid to use, etc.   Maybe in 1937 it was a no-brainer but now it's a lost art.  Do you know of any internet link that would walk me thru this?  Thanks!

[Frosty]

Congrats on your find!

The procedure is suppose to be described in your owners manual. The question now is, do you still have it? Or find a period correct one? It doesn't need to be  a Pontiac, it needs to be a GM one most likely.

Fluid wise, some of the Buick guys I know that restore 30s era cars use hydraulic jack oil. Mobile 10 or 20 grade is also readily available. Some have even suggested motorcycle fork oil as well. Jack oil or a 20W seems to be the general consensus.

Another name for a knee action suspension is called the Dubonnet suspension. That might also help you with your internet search.

Here is an article from Jalopy Journal about a '41 Olds knee action. Not sure if that helps you or not.

https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/how-do-i-fill-front-shocks-on-a-41-olds.876504/

Edited February 14, 2023 by Frosty