simrek1

Hi, Has anyone put rear coil-over shocks on a '66? Mine has them but they need replacing. Does anyone know of an "off the shelf" shock that will fit?
Thanks,
Paul

simrek1

I found a coil-over that is almost identical to the OEMs, it's the Gabriel 43140 Rear Load Carrier Shock.

They worked great and the ride height is perfect. $85. The alternative was custom built shocks for $250.

Olds64

I'm glad you found a suitable shock. I was going to mention it might be worthwhile to check out Kanter or Fusick.

bluecab

Sporty!

As far as I know, the stock configuration just used single leaf springs.

Is this a helper for worn leafs (leaves) ?

Might be a nice addition to help handling..

simrek1

Yep, original leaf that's a bit tired.

DocRocket68

Pardon my confusion but how does a Camero shock fit a Toronado?
The mounts are different. The Toro uses a stud on both ends and the ACDelco 519-8 has an "eye" with 2 bolts. Please explain how you installed these.

Thanks
Brian

simrek1

Sorry, wrong shock. I ended up using Gabriel 43140 Rear Load Carrier my shocks. If memory serves me the ACDelco equilateral is 519-34. I research the compressed length and the shock travel to get as close as possible to my OEM shocks. The mounting configuration of my shocks were as pictured below:


Are you sure that you don't have the front shocks pictured?
Good Luck,
Paul

DocRocket68

Thanks for the clarification. Apparently the early 66's used a different rear vertical shock than the late 66 to 70 Toronados. Loop verses stud is the difference. As I have a 68, the search continues...

simrek1

Lookup the extended and compressed lengths of you OEM shocks, then compare that to the off the shelf shocks and see if you can find a close match. Start with the Gabrielle, ACDelco and Monroe lines of specialty coil over shocks.
Good luck,
Paul

EightballZ

this is really interesting. how would it affect handling and drivability i you have both leaf springs AND coil over springs on the rear axle? would'nt things get too stiff maybe ?

simrek1

My car had rear coil-overs in it already and the shocks themselves needed replacing. I replaced all seven shocks. I needed it more for ride height than stability. If you looking for more stability, check out replacing your horizontal rear shocks and or your steering Stabilizer shock.

66toro_mn

Good information - just looked and my 66 must be an "early model" since I have the loop at the bottom of my rear vertical shocks