Midyear shocks judging question

[Shane G.]

I bought a set of Reactek shocks for my 64. I am ready to paint them and wondered if it would be a good idea or bad idea to fill the part number and date code stampings before I do. If I remove the markings, will I be forever branded as a "Counterfeiter" and exiled to Ohio?

On one hand, I would never consider removing date stampings from a component such as an engine or transmission, but on the other hand, I have seen the "Gates" or "Goodyear" nomenclature happily wiped off of belts and hoses so that they aren't as obviously incorrect. I have also noticed that lots of "upstanding Corvette citizens" have a radiator made in 2002 stamped with a date code indicating 1967 without losing any sleep at all.

I don't want to start a big dicussion about ethics or fraud, I just want to know if my shocks would be better received on the judging field with the incorrect GM part number and date codes intact as a GM replacement part, or with no visible stampings at all?

Thanks,
Shane

[Robert C.]

Re: Midyear shocks judging question

Shane, You have a very good point! Although I would leave the embossed #s intact and paint the shocks the correct blue/grey color and add the paper broadcast code stickers. If the configuration of the shocks are the same as the Delco's, the finish and color is the same, and they are installed properly, you are talking about a 20% deduction(for the date etc.)I would buy Delco shocks and redo the paint on them.
Again ,you have a valid point. You could write your team leader for your class and ask him.
Remember we are a "restoration" group. One can only judge what one can see.

[Jack H.]

Re: Midyear shocks judging question

In addition to what Bob said, one could argue that a 40% deduction would be in order.... 20% for lack of DATE axis of originality and another 20% on the CONFIGURATION axis (lack of any GM identifying emboss and modest housing packaging differences). If you fill all mfgr ID emboss, it'd be tough to be called a counterfeiter as the identifying marks are gone altogether and that's obvious to one skilled in the art. Now, if you were to fill the identifying marks and attempt to re-stamp the shock case with a replica of the GM original markings, I wouldn't hesitate to call this a case of counterfeit!

[Robert C.]

Re: Midyear shocks judging question *NM*

[Gene M.]

Re: Midyear shocks judging question

I've judged a lot of chassis and the front shocks are a gift in judging. Most times except in the most obvious one can not view the shocks to make a call. Baring wrong collor or way over size. The rears on the other hand are easy. If the markings and dates are not present and correct expect a deduction. Heavy duty suspension is even easier.