Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Just changed out rear shocks on my 110 and noticed the old ones had a spiral pattern on the inner housing. What purpose did that serve? From a quick google looks like they may be 1960's era AC delco? I think they were a *bit* overdue for a swap 😁

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As far as I know there is no functionality associated with the spiral pattern, just a visual design feature. If I'm wrong I'm sure corrections will be forthcoming.

I was told that the spiral accomplished the same deal as the spring found in many older shocks, it was to help prevent the formation of bubbles or foaming of the oil under heavy use.
This was Delco's hallmark.
Plausible?

From a Delco engineer, the spiral is in the outer tube which is the reservoir for the fluid. The inner tube contains the shock piston. The spiral was used to prevent the fluid from becoming aerated from sloshing around. Previously there was a baffle in the middle of the reservoir to accomplish this. The spiral was easier than the baffle to build into the shock.

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Thanks guys for the enlightenment, it's a dull day in Packard Land when you don't learn something new.