Build Thread: 1937 LaSalle / Family Hot Rod

[Itoldyouso]

So this is what the whole '37 LaSalle looks like?? I've only previously seen the transmissions.......usually behind an Olds or Caddy engine.

Don't worry about one too many build threads, these are our lifeblood on here. Love peeking into another rodders garage and seeing stuff go together. Please keep it coming.

Looking great so far, and you sure won't be seeing too many copies of your car at any rod run. I like it.

Don

[bluestang67]

Bob now that i am thinking harder your right some type of stabilizer was only used on coil type rearends . I'm learning all the time here , if i would have thought the Stang has none with the leafs either.

[Bob Parmenter]

I'm learning all the time here ,...........

And teaching.............

If there was anyone not fully following these few comments you just completed the concept.

[37 Caddy]

I went to NAPA today, but came home empty handed because I was unsure of my math. However, I now have more knowledge than when I came. Here is my thoughts on shocks.

The length of my shocks at ride height will need to be approximately 19in, most shocks I saw had travel of about 8in. If I assume that the shock is compressed 30%-40% of travel at ride height (approx 3in) then I need a shock with an extended length of 22in.

Does this sound right????

[bluestang67]

That would be a close guessement . Do you know them well enough to let you bring home a tester . My local old time parts store is letting me borrow some belts to get correct fit when im ready.

[Itoldyouso]

Monroe Shocks has an online application chart listing various lengths and eye configurations. Here it is:


http://www.monroe.com/catalog_lookup...iscappinfo.asp


You might consider air shocks too. I put a set from a Ford station wagon on my Jeep truck to handle extra weight. With a big sedan like yours you will be hauling lots of people sometimes.

Don

[37 Caddy]

Thank you. The dimensions chart you sent me looked very familiar as that is what I was looking through at NAPA this morning. I did buy some shocks with stud mounts on both ends. The measure 22.125in extended and should fit perfectly. I will have to wait and see how they perform. I think their actual application is a Ford F-150.

If I can get out to the garage tonight I will post some pictures of my progress on fabricating upper mounts and installing the shocks.