'62 Shock Absorbers & Tires

[Donald B.]

I'm planning on putting radial tires on my '62 and at the same time I want to replace the Shocks.

Looking for recommendations of specific brands for the tires and shocks. Want to keep the look as close to original as possible. Just tired of the ride of bias ply tires.

The car is driven about 1k a year, 250hp/327

Thanks
Don

[Bruce B.]

Re: '62 Shock Absorbers & Tires

Don, a number of years ago (about 12 years) I replaced the shocks on my 62 with standard Delco shocks and have been happy with them. I believe I have replaced 4 of them under the lifetime warranty which has not been a problem. Note that just about all shocks you buy today are gas over oil type, which are fine.
As far as tires go I put a set of Michlein all weather radials on the 62 many years ago and they are still just fine. No age cracks, lots of tread and they hold air just fine. I believe you will be pleased with any good name brand tire.
Personally I would stay away from Chinese made tires.
When I replaced the bias tires with the radials I was shocked at how much better the radials performed.
You will not regret buying radial tires.
Bruce B.

[Edward S.]

Re: '62 Shock Absorbers & Tires

I have no idea how original you want them to look - don't know what came on a 62, but I am sure that any of the big guys making bias plys would have correct radials available. I am sure you will get plenty of info on what works well with other brands. Good luck.

[John H.]

Re: '62 Shock Absorbers & Tires

There are lots of modern 205/75-15 radials out there (from Goodyear, Firestone, Michelin, etc.), although they won't be speed-rated above "S"; stay away from "reproduction" radials - many of them are hard to balance, aren't round, and are prone to sidewall cracks/separation.

[Terry D.]

Re: '62 Shock Absorbers & Tires

Don
I replaced the shocks on my 62 5 years ago with GM over the counter oil filled shocks, don't think they are still available, but if you search the archives for Joe Lucia and shocks you will find the numbers. I run 215x70x15 Goodrich radial T/A's up front and 225's on the rear on ralley rims and just love them.
Terry