The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks Air Shocks?

I'm changing the rear coil springs on my '64 C10 and figured I may as well change the shocks, too... They look as old as the truck. The majority of the time I won't be hauling anything of substantial weight... But, occasionally, I'll haul my 750cc motorcycle.

Any experience, suggestions, etc. on whether to go with air shocks or standard shocks?

I’ve never been a big fan of air shocks, essentially because of how they were most often used back when they were a must have accessory. These were extremely popular in the late 60’s-early 70’s for jacking up the rear end of many cars and trucks. The problem being the upper shock mount on most vehicles was designed only for the shock to control bouncing, not lift the weight of the car. This frequently resulted in tearing holes in the floor or bending the shock mounts.

I suppose using them only occasionally would be better than trying to lift the car with them, but even infrequent heavy loads would still induce the same type of stresses. I believe a preferred solution would be something like air lift helper springs which lift at the frame, and not at the shock mounting points.

http://www.airliftcompany.com/

Good call... I never thought about that. I know JUST what you're talking about. I had a '78 Camaro, back in high school, that had air shocks... Sure enough, I'd pump them up JUST to get that extra lift on the back end. Definitely something to consider.

Thanks!

Epanding on Mark's post above.... Months ago I checked into the air lift springs for my 1965, but haven't ordered them yet. My '65 has the 5 inch lowering springs from CPP. Here is what I found out from Dan Urdahl of Airlift Company:

From: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Airlift Air bag Kit

I was able to find the perfect bag for you, In any coil sprung suspension we will want to be within ¼ of an inch on each measurement. I have a kit with bag dimensions of 5.5 (diameter) and 6.5 (height). It is kit number 60812 and I have no doubt that it will be compatible with the dimensions of those springs. The kit will also include the airline, fittings and inflation valves; everything you need to make the kit work. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me.

Thank You,

Daniel J. Urdahl

AirLift Company

Alot of after market companies offer stronger shock mounts that bolt in the stock location. Ive seen them in CPP's catalog