The rear end, spindles and springs were semi gloss black. When I took my 51 apart there was still original paint on the rear and spindles and the spring leaves still had paint in some places. Very little besides fasteners was left unpainted at the factory. You'll get some disagreement on the tranny but my 4 speed was definitely painted black. Can't help with the shocks but I find it hard to believe they wouldn't throw a quick spray of enamel on them to keep them from rusting before they left the factory. Keep an eye out for NOS ones on E-Bay. You may be able to tell from them.

Bob