Is there any way to re-condition the lever action front shocks on a '54 Olds? I'm assuming they use hydraulic fluid - can they be refilled? I can buy re-manufacturered ones, but they cost a small fortune

 

I am passing on a remedy I heard but have not tried. It came from a pretty good mechanic who has been around awhile. Take STP and heat it where it will pour and fill the shocks with it. It does sound reasonable and you are not spending a lot of money. I would be interested to know if it works. Remember, I have not tried this and am just passing it along.

 

There is. The process, as explained in the '50 and earlier shop manuals, is the same.

They do, and they can. Hydraulic jack fluid is a close, if not exact, example of the original shock fluid. ATF is also an excellent substitute.

I used Jack fluid in several '49s and '50s, and ATF in my '54.

Unless you think STP has the same properties as shock, fluid, jack fluid, ATF, or any other hydraulic fluid, I would not suggest using it.

Norm

 

Grab em while you can. They won't be up long.











Norm

 

Wow! Thanks Norm (and everyone else!)

I really appreciate the info!

 

I like that green/white paint scheme.

 

Thanks. It almost turned into a disaster, as I used s/s acrylic enamel and ended up with orange peel

Since you're not supposed to sand acrylic enamel, I shot it with about 4 coats of clear and wet sanded that.

Didn't turn out too bad considering what could have been!