Low tech tips for mid 50's Buicks Part I: front shocks

As you probably already know front shocks for mid 50's Buicks are not available at the local parts store. Even if you get a knowledgeable parts man to try to match something in stock you will find that the lower mounting foot is too small on the modern replacement. Pairs of the shocks are available from suppliers like those CARS for $60 for plain shocks and $100 for gas shocks vs $51 for Monroe Sensa-Trac Part # 5801, a decent gas shock available locally or from RockAuto (this is the size that fits a 1976 Buick LeSabre). Earlier I had bought a set from CARS and after 30,000 miles they were leaking and the rubber bushing was crumbling. The shocks were made by Gabriel but were smaller than similar heavy duty shocks. One of my Buicks still had the original shocks and hardware which I saved when I replaced the shocks. Okay, here is how I adapted the above Monroe shock to fit a 1955 Buick Century using the original hardware.



Here is an original shock with the original hardware. The rubber bushings and central steel bushing is not used.



Here is the worn replacement from CARS on the left and the Monroe shock on the right showing the difference in the "foot".



First low tech tool: use a hacksaw to cut the feet from the Monroe shock. Be sure your remaining steel bushing is the same length as original steel bushing. You just voided the warranty on the new shock.



The resulting bushing will be deformed, so use a suitable tapered tool to make it round so the cross bolt will fit. Some drilling may be required.



Assembled and ready for installation.



Installed. If you have the original hardware you ready to go, otherwise you now have another excuse to go to the local junkyard.

Coming soon, Part II: rear shocks

Willie