54 Front Shock Absorbers

[Russ U.]

I came across an unopened box of Delco Ride-King shock absorbers. The end of the box says Cat. No. S-105, 49-54 Chevrolet, 53-54 Corvette, 5518018.

I cannot find the part number - 5518018 - in any of the literature I have (part catalogues from 54, 59 and 61). But from what I can tell, 54 Corvettes did not use the same front shocks as passenger cars. Thus, I don't understand why these shocks would work for both passenger cars and Corvettes

Without opening the box, is there any way to tell what these shocks really are and when they were made? If I use these shocks, will I lose points when I have my 54 judged?

Thanks

Russ

[Roy B.]

Re: 54 Front Shock Absorbers

But they will , dont think they judge for the flight award

[Joe L.]

Re: 54 Front Shock Absorbers

Russ------

While the PRODUCTION passenger car and early C1 shock absorbers were, indeed, different, the primary difference was in the internal valving. The basic configuration of the 49-54 passenger car and 53-62 Corvette front shocks was the same.

Once-upon-a-time, in order to obatin a set of shocks with the same internal valving as the originals, one had to obtain the shocks through the GM parts system, not the Delco parts system (even though both shocks were Delco-branded).

The shocks you have are a Delco REPLACEMENT shock of early vintage. These shocks have a "one-size-fits-all" valving and will function more-or-less in a satisfactory manner for both applications. More than likely, they will provide a "softer" ride than the original Corvette shocks, though.

As far as EXTERNAL configuration goes, these shocks may be similar or, even, identical to the originals. The stamped-in part number will be different, though.

[Ron B.]

Re: 54 Front Shock Absorbers

Russ:

The S-105 Delco shock is a Heavy Duty non spiral shock (49-54 Chevrolet) that could be ordered for severe service. It has a large body and piston similar to the 410 Corvette racing shocks. Not originaL EQUIPMENT ON A 1954 Corvette. It will ride very firmly.

[Russ U.]

Thanks Guys - Great Info *NM*