Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

I also don't have any more specifics. I got my shocks from Tucson a few years ago and they are differnt Colors/mfgrs Front and rear. I think you are overanalyzing, but then again if you don't like the kanters you might be more particular than I. For about 120$ a Set I would give them a Try.

Bobby,

As far as I am concerned the only stupid question is the one you don't ask.

My 53 came with a lot of new spare parts (late 60's vintage) including four new AC/Delco shocks in their packaging. I can run over later tomorrow and get the part numbers for you if you would like another reference number.

I have a '54 Convertible (see registry) and I put Kanter shocks on it about 5 years ago; I put their regular shocks on the front and air shocks on the back. The ones that were on it looked decades old and were completely shot. I also replaced the front and rear sway bar bushings as they were all cracked and pounded out of shape. The Kanter shocks seem to be OK to me, I felt a real difference in the ride and handling. But I still wasn't totally happy with the ride, it was harsh in the front over bumps and dips. Just about a year ago, I replaced the front springs (ordered them from Springs 'N Things) and what a difference that made! I'm sure those front springs were original, since they had the Packard part number stamped into them. I guess we can forgive them for wearing out after 57 years of service.

I know you mentioned that the rest of the suspension is up to snuff, but do you know if the front springs have ever been replaced? All I can say is it made a world of difference in my car's ride, and I've even stopped wincing over bumps and dips in the road! I hope this is helpful to you.

Based on the info on the Monroe shocks in this string of discussion, I went to the Monroe website and verified the parts numbers, then clicked on "dealers in your area" and came up with the local O'Riley's here in Billings. Visited them today and they had the parts in the local warehouse. I'll put them on shortly, when we get a bit of a break in the heat. I'll let you know how they perform after installation. Thanks

Thanks, guys..I appreciate it. I am sure I am over thinking this...

There aren't too many choices for shocks out there: Monroe... and a cross reference for Gabriel. Having been disappointed once, I'd like to avoid that again. The Kanters were really bad, the ride was hard and the car crashed over most everything.

The springs are Ok, so i don't think that's the issue..

Just finished putting the Monroe shocks I got from O'Reily. Not a difficult job, and they made a world of difference. The car rides much better now. Not too expensive either.