1965 Delco Front Shocks ID

[William O.]

I have a pair of Delco Shocks Dated 8-28-65 with a part number of 5557395. Question: Are they orginal or replacment shocks and what car were they made for?

Thanks.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1965 Delco Front Shocks ID

William----

The part number is not a part number originally used for any C2 or C3 Corvette. If the shocks are configured in all ways like a C2-C3 Corvette, then they MAY be a Delco replacement shock. However, I can find no reference for that part number.

[Loren L.]

Bill, first realize that the shocks were

"julian" dated, not the system that you recite.
Here are the markings on my 2 shocks, off of Vin #23561 - all of the stampings are on the BOTTOM portion of the shock:

"PLIACELL

3186906 34-65

DELCO PRODUCTS DAYTON OHIO U.S.A."

The other shock is maked identically, except that the date is "98-64"

[Rob M.]

What about judging points

I just pick up a pair of the same shocks (#5557395) dated 288-65. They are stamped SUPERIDE where the Corvette shocks are stamped PLIACELL. I have compared the SUPRERIDE to original PLIACELL shocks and can’t find any difference except the name and paint color – light green. The “DELCO PRODUCTS DAYTON OHIO U.S.A.” is there too.
So how would these judge? If you look at configuration, they are identical. Would the PN and name override the config? Seems like these should judge better than the late model Delco replacement shocks. Any comments on point deductions?

[John H.]

Re: What about judging points

Rob -

You'd lose 20% for the date, and 20% for configuration; assuming installation, completeness, and finish were correct, that 40% would be two points. Front shocks and bushings only carry five originality points.

[Patrick H.]

Re: What about judging points

You're assuming that the chassis judge can even SEE the name and the date. If it were me I'd paint them the correct gray, attach labels and install them so the name is "less obvious." Then hope you have a "less than lean" chassis judge who can't see the writing and gives you full credit.

Yes, it happens.

Patrick