Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

[Michael H.]

I always try to research the Archives here before posting what would seem to be obvious "repeat questions." However, although this is certainly a question that has come up in years past, I wasn't able to find quickly any recent responses.

I'd simply like to know what everyone currently recommends for replacement shocks for a '65 small block. This is assuming that I can't find originals and do not wish to pay $850 for restamped non-originals. I understand that some of the older available replacements were closer in configuration to the originals than the current GM replacements. So are there any newer available replacement shocks that stand a better chance of receiving minimal judging deductions (assuming one went to the trouble of re-painting using the correct Quanta blue-gray paint and also of affixing the appropriate sticker)?

Thanks as always in advance for your input.

Mike H.

[Edward J.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Mike, I think the truth is that there is nothing made today that has the same configuration. So my two cents is just buy the replacement set of Delco shocks (Made in Mexico) they are a good all around street shock and have the a good ride, Just paint them gray and install the stickers also find yourself a used set of upper washers they are totally different. I had my C3 judged with them, I don't have my sheet in front of me but its a small deduct. For the dollar amount you'll spent buying the repro ones or a set of 50 year old originals that you won't want to drive around on any way. Ebay sometimes has a deal on 4 Delco shocks around a 100 bucks.

[Jim C.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Mike, I did the same as Ed and made National Top Flight. I used Bilsteins and am very happy with the handling.

[John D.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Mike, Ten years ago I bought a set of reportedly Delco shocks on ebay that were replacement for midyears. The only thing Delco on the shocks was the decal.
So they are not even service replacements unless the currently available ones are stamped Delco. Deduct should be full tilt. John

[Michael H.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

John,

"Deduct full tilt"--meaning no credit at all? Do you think I should just spring for the restamped non-originals? Does anyone know how those typically fare in judging? Thanks again to everyone for responding.

Mike

[Richard M.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Mike,
Like Ed and Jim recommended go with the ACdelco's and repaint them, The gas shocks are part number 530-315 for the fronts
and 530-4 for the rears.

Richard

[William F.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Why buy a set of old upper washers? Can't you use the ones you take off when you remove the old shocks?

[Donald O.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

I always try to research the Archives here before posting what would seem to be obvious "repeat questions." However, although this is certainly a question that has come up in years past, I wasn't able to find quickly any recent responses.

I'd simply like to know what everyone currently recommends for replacement shocks for a '65 small block. This is assuming that I can't find originals and do not wish to pay $850 for restamped non-originals. I understand that some of the older available replacements were closer in configuration to the originals than the current GM replacements. So are there any newer available replacement shocks that stand a better chance of receiving minimal judging deductions (assuming one went to the trouble of re-painting using the correct Quanta blue-gray paint and also of affixing the appropriate sticker)?

Thanks as always in advance for your input.

Mike H.

I use Koni shocks, love them. Painted them a blue-gray primer and sealed with clear. Would it fool a judge, nope and I don't worry about it.

[Claus S.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Any here that know the paint code for the gray painted shocks on a 64?

[Ron R.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Anyone know if Z06 shocks were painted?

[Joe L.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Anyone know if Z06 shocks were painted?

Ron------


I don't know of ANY original Delco shocks that were unpainted.

[John D.]

Re: Recommendations for C2 Replacement Shocks

Mike, I was waiting for an experienced judge to chirp in.
Refer to the Judging Reference manual for standard deductions on replacement parts. John