Topic: Shock Absorber bushing replacement

[RoyceP]

Here's the OEM Autolite shock and all the parts. I pressed it back together using the hydraulic press, with the larger diameter socket supporting the shock while the smaller socket was used to press on the rubber bushing.

[RoyceP]

The results - not too good, but with a better bushing to start with the technique may work.

The Monroe bushing sheared off a little at the bottom, cut by the socket.

[RoyceP]

Also, it is just too narrow to ever look right. with the axle centered there is an appropriate amount of rubber on one side but not enough on the other.

[RoyceP]

Here is one of my NOS front shocks for comparison.

[67350#1242]

I have been successful swapping these out with either vintage or newer Gabriel bushings and crossbar.  As shown, the Monroe is too narrow and wrong profile.

Didn't need to use a press at all - just spray the donor bushing good with silicone spray,  put one end of the crossbar in a vise, then twist and pull it off.  The bushing and cross come out together.

Reverse process to install on the old shock - twist and push after soak with silicone.  Really easy peasy.

Kurt

[Bob Gaines]

I agree that the real trick is first finding a acceptable bushing.

[RoyceP]

I ordered a set. More to follow. Thanks!

I have been successful swapping these out with either vintage or newer Gabriel bushings and crossbar.  As shown, the Monroe is too narrow and wrong profile.

Didn't need to use a press at all - just spray the donor bushing good with silicone spray,  put one end of the crossbar in a vise, then twist and pull it off.  The bushing and cross come out together.

Reverse process to install on the old shock - twist and push after soak with silicone.  Really easy peasy.

Kurt

[tobkob]

Be sure to grease well before pressing the bushing in...

TOB

[jwc66k]

Be sure to grease well before pressing the bushing in...

Don't use a silicon based anything, easy in - easy out. In the past (for different slide in applications) liquid dish soap was "recommended".
Jim

[tobkob]

Don't use a silicon based anything,

+1... I just used grease from the grease gun so it would clean off...

TOB

[RoyceP]

Well the Gabriel shocks from Auto Zone arrived at my door about 1 hour ago.

Comparing the axle the Gabriel ones are probably the same material as the Monroe shocks. Thinner wall thickness compared to the original Autolite shocks. The shape was spot on compared to the originals though. Gabriel on the left, Autolite on the right.

[RoyceP]

I used WD40 as recommended. Within 10 minutes both shocks are done! I just need to finish stripping the old paint so they can be restored to original appearance.

One other observation, the Gabriel shocks have about 1" less travel than the Autolite shocks.

Thanks to all for the helpful suggestions!

[specialed]

i got bushings that work if needed

[69GT350H]

If someone has a pair of bushings for the 69 Autolite shocks, I'd like to replace the innertube rubber someone used on mine. Else if the Gabriel shocks are more reasonably priced and readily available, I'll go that route. What is the Gabriel shock part #?

[RoyceP]

The Gabriel part number is  82104 and they cost $19.99 each at Auto Zone.

If someone has a pair of bushings for the 69 Autolite shocks, I'd like to replace the innertube rubber someone used on mine. Else if the Gabriel shocks are more reasonably priced and readily available, I'll go that route. What is the Gabriel shock part #?