Topic: Spring Saddle Replacement Bushing Color

[OldGuy]

Guys, I'm in the process of rebuilding my original spring saddles and would like to know if the outer bushing sleeve was originally bare (like the sheet metal portion of the saddle) or black oxide treated (plated?). If the bushing sleeve was treated, how dark should it be? Can you also verify if the bushing shaft ends (the area that the attaching bolts go through) was black oxide treated also?

Thanks for your input in advance.

Frank

[J_Speegle]

If I understand the question as asked the body - all the formed sheet metal that makes up the spring saddle would be bare unplated steel - so nice smooth like new sheet stell

The shaft would be darker since it was likely heat treated when formed. How every you choose to obtain an original looking final finish is up to you but would not have originally been plated IMHO

[OldGuy]

Thanks Jeff. I figured that the bushing shaft had an oxide-like finish as evidenced by what remained in one area that was likely protected from rust by oil from a leaky shock absorber. Unfortunately, said oil didn't protect the bushing sleeve but did ruin the rubber bushing.

Thanks you again.

Frank