RE: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
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RE: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
- From: christopher beilby <thelastbestgenius@xxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Mon, 1 Aug 2011 14:33:51 +1000
Someone asked what year the photos and data of the shocks I sent will fit - I do not know, they all were off '57 300C. Likely same size shock fits few years after '57, but this only a personal guess? Last night I also got out a shock I took off a '56 Packard - one with Torsion bar cross linked suspension. Front shock was same ion one respect as 300C, in that way more force needed to extend versuis way less to compress, but both forces were well below those needed for 300C shock. But maybe torsion bar front ends need way different shocks to coil front ends? Final point - one shot I sent showed just mainly top part of shock - this was to show shock sat at about 2 1/2 inches extension when car at normal ride height, not on my Pc for about a day, but can reply after that, Christopher in Australia > CC: thelastbestgenius@xxxxxxxxxxx; spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx; r2gthawk@xxxxxxxxx; chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> To: lettercars@xxxxxxx
> From: mmoore8425@xxxxxxx
> Date: Sun, 31 Jul 2011 15:14:33 -0700
> Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
>
> Gil,-all
> Do we have any way of knowing what all those Koni Shocks fit?
> Front 80C-1229
> Rear 82-1066
> Best,
> Mike Moore
>
> On Jul 31, 2011, at 7:51 AM, lettercars@xxxxxxx wrote:
>
> > To All:
> > I have not been following all the Koni conversations, having been satisfied
> > with the KYBs I installed several years ago on the 300F and 300H converts.
> > However, I just took a look in my 300C folder, suspecting that I might have
> > some original info on the Konis I put on it those many years ago. Of
> > course, there the sales slip was, dated 9-19-67! Never a doubt! Anyway, I
> > don't recall if anyone referenced the original Koni part numbers for those
> > specified for the 300C. (Actually only Plymouth and Dodge, '57 to '61, are
> > mentioned in the Koni spec sheet.) If not, here they are:
> > Front: 80C-1229, $26.00 each.
> > Rear: 82-1066, $25.00 each.
> > With tax, total cost came to $106.08. I don't know what that is in
> > today's $$$.
> > As I think I said in a previous email, I set the resistance at about the
> > mid point, and was very satisfied. I drove the car for about 3 years after
> > the installation, including our wedding trip to New England.
> > Since I also had my XK-E convert at that time, they also sent me those
> > numbers. (price F, $30, R, $32)
> > I didn't bite on those----guess I thought the Jag was good enough with its
> > originals.
> > Anyway, if I duplicated info that has already been stated, sorry. If not,
> > I would think Koni would certainly retain specifications for their
> > previously available products.
> > 300ly, Gil Cunningham
> >
> > ps: Just ck'd all of this LONG email list, and it looks like somebody did
> > mention original Koni pn's, so
> > sorry for the duplication. I'll mail it anyway!
> >
> >
> > I apparently had written Koni to inquire as to where I could obtain the
> > shocks. They responded with lots of info plus the local dealer in the
> > Detroit area. The literature a
> >
> >
> >
> > In a message dated 7/31/2011 8:25:49 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
> > thelastbestgenius@xxxxxxxxxxx writes:
> >
> > Guys the '300ly sun gods' shone today, after maybe the coldest 5 weeks
> > here in many years - and having choice of starting the day outside by removing
> > trans from my 6 Series BM Coupe or taking shots & measurements of original
> > '57 300C shocks, I did the shocks first.
> >
> > Attached are a few shots of fronts and less of rears - my i/net slow, so I
> > will send all other ones taken to Clunb photo man Bob, along with shots of
> > original issue 1960 Chrysler Seat Belts which have been discussed on this
> > site re what were they like. These shots I will send tomorrow or next day,.
> > when more time and my i/net hopefully faster.
> >
> > I put a tape measure in most shots, BUT HERE ARE KEY DIMENSIONS
> > 1) overall length of shock metal case MINUS THE SHAFT PART = 8 1/4 inches
> > 2) length of compressed shock (from centre of mount eye at base to mid
> > point of shaft at top of shock (measured (at top) to mid point of unthreaded
> > protruding shaft) ) = 8 inches (this is the minimum distance the mounted
> > shock could ever compress to).
> > 3) overall length of compressed shock (now including shaft at top) = just
> > under 10 1/4 inches.
> > 4) length of extended shock, measured from centre of lower mount eye, to
> > centre of unthreaded extended shaft at top = 12 1/2inches.
> > 5) outside diameter of the metal case of the shocker is 1 1/2 inches
> > 6) KEY POINT - THE SHOCKS REQUIRE MAYBE DOUBLE THE FORCE TO EXTEND - ie it
> > takes twice the force on the upstroke, versus the force to compress them.
> >
> > THIS IS I BELIEVE A KEY FAILING OF USING KYB and other non genuine shocks
> > - they DO NOT HAVE THIS GREATER RESISTANCE TO THE INITAIL EXTENSION STROKE
> > ??!!
> >
> > Rear shocks - someone asked maximum length - they are outside now and it
> > dark, but I think one of enclosed shots shows the max mounted length.
> >
> > Sorry the Club site will knock off, not include, the shots attached -
> > maybe Bob or other can put them up on Club Tech page somewhere.
> > The shocks are off 2 off my 300Cs, third one had/has same on front, they
> > are dated '56 and 57 issue, have the ORIFLOW made in USA stampings around
> > ring at base on fronts, correct PNs listed for original issue - stampings are
> > on the lower outer sides of the upper shell on the rears.
> >
> > The Ford Tank Fairlane that my mum had, that I fitted Konis to the front
> > of, is maybe a car that Koni still are able to supply shocks for - a good
> > easy start might be ask Koni how close are the outer/length dimension to
> > those of 300C, knowing that the lower eye is different, BUT may be easy for
> > Koni to make/alter Ford shock to 300 lower mount style??! Galaxies into the
> > early 60s may have used same Ford Tank type shocks - and that Tank had same
> > loose uncontrolled initial upward bounce that it looks like Chrysler tried
> > to eliminate on the 300s by having a stronger upstroke than the compression
> > one??
> >
> > Good luck, somebody owes me a red wine/beer, for all this typing etc!!
> >
> > Christopher in Australia
> >
> > > CC: r2gthawk@xxxxxxxxx; chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > To: spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > From: mmoore8425@xxxxxxx
> > > Date: Sat, 30 Jul 2011 19:35:54 -0700
> > > Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > >
> > >
> > > Hey guys-here is the note I had earlier from Koni. If anyone has the
> > dimensional data, perhaps from an old shock, it would sure be a huge help. I
> > just sent him the KYB number we're using for the front, but that must not be
> > enough.
> > >
> > > John Spiers, if we can get the dimensional data do you want to pick up
> > this interface with Lee Grimes before I cause mass confusion?
> > >
> > >
> > > "Michael,
> > >
> > > Since this is a vehicle for which nothing has been made in a very, very
> > long time (I have been here 15+ years and don't recall it), I would not be
> > very optimistic that this is very doable at all regardless of the number of
> > units ordered. It will for sure require a pretty sizable amount of
> > engineering time to effectively make a new part up from scratch (new drawings,
> > R&D, etc.) which is very hard if not impossible to amortize across just 100
> > pieces each of a front and rear part number and still make it market viable.
> > >
> > > Since it will most likely be a relatively basic traditional non-spring
> > perch shock absorber front and rear with either a pin or eye mount at either
> > or both ends, this is potentially more viable than a modern strut damper
> > with more complicated attachments and expensive spring perches, sway bar
> > brackets, etc..
> > >
> > > Although there is far more as yet unknown than known about these
> > dampers, I can only make a WAG at per unit pricing. If they are truly basic units
> > as I am guessing, in that limited volume I am going to guess that a
> > wholesale price would be between $80-120 each. Again, that number could go up or
> > down (but probably not too much lower) once we have more known info.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > Certainly increasing the volume potential would help as well. This is
> > based on it being a traditional KONI rebound damping adjustable twin tube low
> > pressure gas damper. We do have a line of much lower priced non-adjustable
> > products but the minimum numbers may be more like 400-500 of each to work.
> > >
> > > If you could share (fax or email) some dimensional information on a
> > drawing showing max extended and min. compressed lengths along with the
> > attachment types and dimensions, maybe we could get lucky and find that there is
> > something already in the current application list that is close enough to
> > use as-is or as a current manufactured baseline to build from. I guess the
> > first step would be to get dimensions and go from there.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > Unfortunately this is very likely to be a dead end project due to
> > manufacturing issues and costs but it doesn't hurt to look into it given some
> > time. KONI is usually by far the most volume flexible of the major shock
> > absorber manufacturers but as time progresses even we are more and more limited
> > on the custom and low volume projects that are feasible.
> > >
> > > BTW, I actually own an old sports car "special" built on an early '50s
> > Dodge/Chrysler ladder frame that still uses the suspension, axles and drum
> > brakes from the donor car. It was built as a drag car in the early '60s with
> > a Chevy engine and transmission and a Devin fiberglass body on top. It was
> > a regular "junkyard dog" special back in its day. I hope to start the
> > frame up restoration in the next year or two. Are things like suspension
> > bushings and brake parts still around and available for these old cars?
> > >
> > > Best regards,
> > > Lee Grimes
> > > KONI North America
> > >
> > > On Jul 30, 2011, at 6:44 PM, John wrote:
> > >
> > > > John B -
> > > >
> > > > No problem. I have 100% faith in the Koni product, with my personal
> > experience, and especially after reading the various experiences of 300 Club
> > members here with other makes. The KYBs are very good, but the Konis I
> > believe are excellent. Some of us spend $800-$1000 on a set of modern
> > wide-whitewall radial tires, which significantly upgrades the ride comfort and
> > handling of our 300s. Yet they are unlikely spend more than $60 on a set of
> > shock absorbers that will add another quantum leap in improvement in the same
> > criteria. It remains to be seen what the cost would be from Koni, or even if
> > they will manufacture them for us - or even if we get the minimum of 50
> > sets originally stated by US-Koni - I think we're up to about 17-18 sets so
> > far, pretty good considering there is not yet interest from anyone other
> > than Chrysler 300 Club Int'l members.
> > > >
> > > > I think that if Koni cannot or will not re-manufacture the original
> > part numbers, I will see if there is a physical fit, and as with the KYBs,
> > they will not have the blessing of the manufacturer for the Chrysler
> > application. But they are adjustable, so if there is a shock that fits, and it is
> > for a lighter car (and that is probable) we might have to adjust them to a
> > firmer or the firmest setting to get the desired result. Adjusting them is
> > an easy process: Compress the shock until a pair of teeth engage from top to
> > bottom of the shock, and rotate clockwise/counterclockwise to
> > stiffen/soften the action of the unit. And this can be also done to compensate for
> > wear. My long-gone 1962 Morgan still had a 1/2-turn left in adjustment with the
> > 1964-manufactured Konis. If I recall correctly, out of the box, they have
> > 4-5 full turns of adjustment either firmer or softer.
> > > >
> > > > Regards,
> > > >
> > > > John Spiers
> > > >
> > > > ________________________________
> > > > From: john begian <r2gthawk@xxxxxxxxx>
> > > > To: John <spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2011 9:15 PM
> > > > Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > > >
> > > > HI,
> > > >
> > > > I would be interested in a set also, for my G ragtop.
> > > >
> > > > Thanks for your help in moving this project along!
> > > >
> > > > John Begian
> > > > Saline, MI
> > > >
> > > > ________________________________
> > > > From: John <spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > To: Ronald Kurtz <mark6268@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>; Chrysler 300 Club Intl
> > <chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > Sent: Sat, July 30, 2011 11:51:33 AM
> > > > Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > The total count thus far is about 16 sets. Absolutely no hint from
> > US-Koni as to the price has been provided.
> > > >
> > > > A buddy in one of the Christine clubs ('57, '58 Plymouths) send out an
> > email to his club's listserver members, no response so far.
> > > >
> > > > The Koni rep has not said anything, other than a total of 50 sets
> > would be needed to start production, and also that depends upon the
> > availability of component parts. He said some of the components may be out of
> > production, which is the same news received by a club member with a contact inside
> > Koni. Koni has not responded yet to my email late last week about making a
> > run of fewer sets.
> > > >
> > > > John Spiers
> > > >
> > > > ________________________________
> > > > From: Ronald Kurtz <mark6268@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > To: John <spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2011 11:41 AM
> > > > Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > > >
> > > > Hi, John:
> > > >
> > > > I'd like to get front and rear shocks for my E, Please count me in.
> > > >
> > > > Best,
> > > > Ron Kurtz
> > > > E# 292
> > > >
> > > > ________________________________
> > > > From: John <spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > To: Michael Moore <mmoore8425@xxxxxxx>
> > > > Cc: christopher beilby <thelastbestgenius@xxxxxxxxxxx>;
> > alumcantandthd@xxxxxxx; l-forwardlook@xxxxxxxxxxxxx; chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx;
> > 63-64chryslers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > > Sent: Tue, July 26, 2011 12:33:36 PM
> > > > Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > I sure can ask now!
> > > >
> > > > Preferably, I'd rather wait and see if there's some more interest here
> > - and I
> > > > repeat - to anyone who is on the 59SportFury.net board - the Imperial
> > Club - or
> > > > the WPC Club - or any related organization, to see how much interest
> > we can pick
> > > > up. I'd rather approach Koni with "all
> > > > guns blazing" with a significant
> > > > interest, rather than going off half-cocked. Help, please!
> > > >
> > > > At least then, we could see at what price point Koni would be.
> > > >
> > > > John
> > > >
> > > > ________________________________
> > > > From: Michael Moore <mmoore8425@xxxxxxx>
> > > > To: John <spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > Cc: christopher beilby <thelastbestgenius@xxxxxxxxxxx>;
> > alumcantandthd@xxxxxxx;
> > > > l-forwardlook@xxxxxxxxxxxxx; chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx;
> > > > 63-64chryslers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > > Sent: Tue, July 26, 2011 12:13:29 PM
> > > > Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > > >
> > > > Hmm.
> > > > John,
> > > > Do you think its unreasonable to say something to them like
> > > > like:
> > > >
> > > > "It's a little difficult to measure the interest in something people
> > don't know
> > > > the cost of. Could you give me a budgetary price for x pieces (25
> > sets?) of
> > > > front shocks for these cars? Some people may be willing to buy
> > multiple sets to
> > > > make up the volume, but they need to know about a range of how much
> > they cost".
> > > > I certainly understand not wanting to
> > > > exercise Koni, but its a chicken and egg
> > > > sort of thing. If the price of 50 sets was low, you'd sell out
> > immediately. If
> > > > too high---well, we'd know that too pretty soon.
> > > >
> > > > Mike Moore
> > > >
> > > > .
> > > >
> > > > On Jul 26, 2011, at 8:12 AM, John wrote:
> > > >
> > > > There is no price. I wouldn't even ask unless we had enough interest.
> > > > >
> > > > >John
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > ________________________________
> > > > From: Michael Moore <mmoore8425@xxxxxxx>
> > > > >To: christopher beilby <thelastbestgenius@xxxxxxxxxxx>
> > > > >Cc: spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx; alumcantandthd@xxxxxxx;
> > l-forwardlook@xxxxxxxxxxxxx; chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx; 63-64chryslers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > > >
> > > > >Sent: Tue, July 26, 2011 11:07:24 AM
> > > > >Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > > > >
> > > > >Have they said what the price would be in a lot of 50 pieces?
> > > > >Mike Moore
> > > > >300H
> > > > >
> > > > >On Jul 26, 2011, at 7:53 AM, christopher beilby wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > >Can I suggest that for an easier start/option, that you just
> > > > look at getting
> > > > >orders for front shocks - if so I would take two sets if the price
> > not much more
> > > > >than a $100 a shock.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>Konis are brilliant on the front of a car that needs good control. I
> > have maybe
> > > > >>3 good original 300C factory fitted shocks, they currently not on
> > my 300Cs. I
> > > > >>have put a pair of KYBs on my driver 300C, but they still do not
> > feel as good as
> > > > >>they could, nor maybe better than the original 300C front shocks
> > that I
> > > > removed.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>My mother had new a late 50s big block Ford Ranchwagon, and we lived
> > up bush at
> > > > >>the time. The factory shocks lasted only around 15k miles on aussie
> > country bush
> > > > >>bitumen roads/tracks, this in then 70-80 mph everyday cruise speeds.
> > > > >>And the front felt just like 300Cs with KYBS - not out of control,
> > but a bit
> > > > >>sloppy over dips etc. I fitted Konis, and boy what a car it made of
> > it -
> > > > now
> > > > >>cruised everywhere at 80-90 mph on good radials. And so I put them
> > on the rear
> > > > >>of another newer aussie Ford V8, a hotted up one that was good for
> > 125+ mph,
> > > > >>quarter mile in around 14 secs. And in the next few years, I did
> > 180,000 fast
> > > > >>miles in that car, over 120k of those I worked out recently at over
> > 100mph
> > > > >>cruise speeds. (A cop pulled me up once, said he had tailed me from
> > about 1-2
> > > > >>miles behind for last 15 miles - told me he
> > > > clocked my speed never below 108mph,
> > > > >>and up to 115mph, but after bouncing car to check shocks and seeing
> > top quality
> > > > >>high speed radails, said it perfectly safe, just don't do it when
> > cops were
> > > > >>around!!) And when I removed the shocks, they were still like new re
> >
> > > > >>axction/reaction, despite the steel casings near shotblasted/dinted
> > to
> > > > >>hell/nothing, by untold 100+mph stones/grit etc, never mind they
> > > > often buried in
> > > > >>dust/mud.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>Owners of 300s that are trailer queens do not bother with Konis -
> > but everyone
> > > > >>else, if Konis can make a shock to suit our 300s, especially the
> > needy 300
> > > > >>front, it will put the biggest country and town smiles on our/your
> > faces, it
> > > > >>will make the car 30-50% more fun/safer.
> > > > >>I have Konis on my old early 70s Lamborghini, rear of my BM 6 series
> > coupe, and
> > > > >>recently I have discovered '77/78
> > > > TBirds - the ones with 400s and C6 autos - and
> > > > >>all those combo ones lack to be a real fun driver's/punter car is
> > better/right
> > > > >>shocks, and if Koni make a not too dear one for them, at least 2 of
> > the 4 of
> > > > >>them will get them as I can afford. A good driver performance car
> > can be made
> > > > >>into a magic drivers/fun car with Konis - boring, more lackluster
> > cars, will
> > > > >>gain little from them
> > > > though.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>Get those 300 order numbers any way you/we can, you will not be
> > disappointed.
> > > > >>Hemi and crossram 300s were just made for Konis to make them even
> > better fun. Go
> > > > >>for Koni fronts first, this cheaper than all 4 at once, and if we
> > can, then go
> > > > >>for the rears as well later.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>my two bobs worth - backed by owning/driving over 100 cars from many
> > > > >>makers/countries - and my heavy right foot is still younger than my
> > > > >>brain/commonsense.
> > > > >>Christopher in Australia
> > > > >>
> > > > >>
> > > > >>
> > > > ________________________________
> > > > To: mmoore8425@xxxxxxx
> > > > >>CC: alumcantandthd@xxxxxxx; l-forwardlook@xxxxxxxxxxxxx;
> > chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx; 63-64chryslers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > > >>
> > > > >>From: spiers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > > >>Date: Tue, 26 Jul 2011 07:01:30 -0700
> > > > >>Subject: Re: [FWDLK] [Chrysler300] Shocks - Koni
> > > > >>
> > > > >>
> > > > >>Hi Mike -
> > > > >>
> > > > >>I included you and your 300Hs in the "4-1/2" count of possible
> > buyers for
> > > > >these
> > > > >>Koni shocks.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>I think there is not
> > > > enough interest worldwide - so far it's me, you, another
> > > > >>person from the 300 Club Int'l, and possibly Rick from the
> > Forwardlook list
> > > > >>(who
> > > > >>didn't say how many). So, I have not asked the Koni rep anything
> > further than
> > > > >>the initial availability question below - right now, there is no
> > pricing and
> > > > >no
> > > > >>consideration to place these back into production..
> > > > >>
> > > > >>The low interest in these shocks may just be the nature of the owner
> > of these
> > > > >>cars -
> > > > most drivers of these cars take them out on slow Sunday drives, and
> > > > >have
> > > > >>had them for many years, when there were nice runners available for
> > four
> > > > >weeks'
> > > > >>pay. In 2011, for many folks, paying more than a modest dinner for
> > two out on
> > > > >>the town for a set of four shocks is considered excessive - and is
> > reflected
> > > > >by
> > > > >>the near-zero interest this is generating
> > > > here.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>Myself, I get out in the cut & thrust of I-95 in South Florida and
> > have to
> > > > >>out-maneuver the media-estimated 30% of drivers who have NO car
> > insurance at
> > > > >>all. The added control afforded by the $130-$140 KYBs have saved my
> > butt on
> > > > >>many
> > > > >>occasions - but there's room for improvement. I consider the KYBs
> > good
> > > > >>insurance, and for a one-time purchase, an excellent investment. And
> > the car
> > > > >is
> > > > >>more pleasant and fun to drive - I can only
> > > > imagine what the Konis would be
> > > > >>like. I would surely never go back to the stock-type shock absorber,
> > ever.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>I am copying this discussion over onto the Forwardlook list, and I
> > welcome
> > > > >>anyone to bring it to the 1959 Plymouth list, the Christine clubs,
> > or any
> > > > >other
> > > > >>related Mopar auto
> > > > forum.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>John
> > > > >>
> > > > >>________________________________
> > > > >>
> > > > >>John,
> > > > >>I wonder what price range they are considering.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>I paid $800 per car set for my Jaguars (6 shocks) .
> > > > >>They made such a terrific difference that I would be willing to buy
> > 2 sets if
> > > > >>necessary. If they're thinking $100 each, I wonder how it would
> > change if we
> > > > >>thought in terms of $200 each.
> > > > >>
> > > > >>I would gladly pay $800 for a set of Koni shocks designed by Koni
> > for my car.
> > > > >>I also wonder just where all
> > > > the same shocks (as ours) were used originally,
> > > > >>and hopw many of those folks we could interest.
> > > > >>Mike Moore
> > > > >>
> > > > >>On Jul 25, 2011, at 9:13 PM, John wrote:
> > > > >>
> > > > >>> CanMan & All!
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> I sent the email below to see if there is any interest in Koni
> > shocks
> > > > for
> > > > >our
> > > > >>> 1957-1964 Mopars.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> So far, not including ole CanMan, I have heard interest in the
> > Koni shocks
> > > > >>> totaling four and a half car sets. Only 45.5 sets to go!!
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> The Koni US factory representative said fifty CAR SETS would be
> > the minimum
> > > > >>> amount required to have the factory in Holland make a production
> > run.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Konis are an adjustable, super-premium shock at a super-premium
> > price, used
> > > > >>on
> > > > >>
> > > > >>> many expensive high-speed European
> > > > sports cars because of their superior
> > > > >>>control
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> characteristics - a car set of four shocks for many cars often
> > runs $600 or
> > > > >>> more. I know it is nearly impossible to convince someone who is
> > used to
> > > > >>paying
> > > > >>
> > > > >>> $15/each for shocks that one could
> > > > be worth 10x the price. Heck, even the
> > > > >>>KYBs,
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> which I like very much and have on a couple of my early 60s Mopars
> > and
> > > > other
> > > > >>> cars, are beyond the pale for many at $30-$40 each - and they are
> > > > well-worth
> > > > >>>the
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> price in improved handling. I find it a little irritating that the
> > KYBs are
> > > > >>> made in the Far East, though, but they have proven to be a
> > long-lasting,
> > > > >>> well-made product. At least the Konis are made in Holland.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> To tell the story in
> > > > more detail, I've only had Koni shocks on one car, a
> > > > >>1962
> > > > >>
> > > > >>> Morgan Plus/4. When I got the car in 1980, with well over 100,000
> > miles on
> > > > >>it,
> > > > >>>I
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> ordered Konis right away. Much to my surprise, when I cleaned off
> > the
> > > > >surface
> > > > >>> rust on the old shocks, they too were Konis, with a 1964 date of
> > manufacture
> > > > >>>on
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> them! The new ones I installed hardly made a difference, and the
> > old ones
> > > > >>>still
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> had one more "click" of adjustment left on them to stiffen up the
> > rebound
> > > > >>> action, even being 16 years old at the time. I was impressed, and
> > drove
> > > > that
> > > > >>> car 65,000 miles in my ownership, with never a concern about
> > shocks.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> One thing that just came to mind - There are US manufacturers that
> > are
> > > > >making
> > > > >>> high-performance shocks for the likes of Camaros, Mustangs, etc.,
> > - I wonder
> > > > >>>if
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> any of them would take a look at a set of KYBs as an example, and
> > come up
> > > > >>with
> > > > >>>a
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> shock for us? Maybe
> > > > there's a close fit that can be adapted - I'm messing
> > > > >>> around with a '72 Pinto wagon (who knows why?!), and installed
> > KYBs all
> > > > >>around
> > > > >>>-
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> I had read, and since confirmed, that 1980s Camaro rear shocks fit
> > and work
> > > > >>>very
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> well on the rear of the Pinto.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Cheers.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> John Spiers
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> ________________________________
> > > > >>
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> How many do you have signed up, to get a set?
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> How soon is this gonna happen?
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Thanks,,,,,,,,,,,,,
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>----------------------------------------------------------
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> To continue forward with this discussion about shock absorbers at
> > the 300
> > > > >>Club
> > > > >>
> > > > >>> listserver:
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Koni once made front and rear shocks to fit our cars.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> I recall having read a thread on the Imperial Club's website. I
> > found it,
> > > > >and
> > > > >>> here it is, complete with misspellings:
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Tip from Philippe:
> > > > >>> Just a little story about shock absorbers, I think that it could
> > help you
> > > > >and
> > > > >>> the Imperial owners. Last year I bought a 57 wrecked Crown (no
> > glasses,
> > > > rust
> > > > >>> everywhere, transmission « out »). This car was neglected since
> > > > 1966 so all
> > > > >>>the
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> parts on it were never replaced with aftermarket parts ! Except
> > one thing :
> > > > >>>the
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> shock absorbers! Maybe the original « Oriflow » weren't as strong
> > as
> > > > >Chrysler
> > > > >>> said! I was very surprised
> > > > when I removed the shocks : they aren't « made
> > > > in
> > > > >>> Brazil or Mexico » as actual sold by K....R or B......M. There are
> > KONI
> > > > >>>shocks,
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> a very reliable & famous make (more expensive also). But I don't
> > know if
> > > > >Koni
> > > > >>> make them always. Summit has Koni shocks on his catalog. I give
> > you the
> > > > >>> reference (as they are the same from 57 to 65) : Front : 80 C 1229
> > Rear :
> > > > 82
> > > > >>> 1066 Date of manufacturing : 11/64 If they are always
> > manufactured, buy
> > > > them
> > > > >>>and
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> don't buy
> > > > $80.00 for four : I bought 4 gaz charged absorbers (from kanter)
> > > > :
> > > > >>> after one year, one was leaking and one was jamed ! Mexico made
> > ...
> > > > >>> >>Follow-up from Dietmar:
> > > > >>> >>>You are right- KONI is the worlds best qualitiy shock
> > absorbers for
> > > > >street
> > > > >>>and
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> >>>race cars. They will serve You a 100 000 miles without any
> > complain. I
> > > > >use
> > > > >>>them
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> >>>on my IMP 60 so this havy car dont swim nor incline in the
> > curve, I use
> > > > >>>KONI
> > > > >>>an
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> >>>all sports car I have.
> > > > >>> >>>
> > > > >>> >>>
> > > > >>> >>>---
> > > > >>> >>>
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> So I sent an email to Koni North America, inquiring about the
> > above
> > > > >mentioned
> > > > >>>
> > > > part numbers. Here is the reply:
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> From: "Mclaughlin, Paul - ITT Motion Technologies"
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Haven't had those part#'s for years... I think u have to buy 50
> > cars sets
> > > > >>each
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> to get run made in
> > > > Holland.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Paul McLaughlin
> > > > >>> Koni Shock Absorbers
> > > > >>> ITT Corporation
> > > > >>> Racing Technical Sales Rep.
> > > > >>> 1961A International Way
> > > > >>> Hebron, Ky. 41048
> > > > >>> 800-922-2616 option 6
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> ---
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> I checked on prices of Koni shocks. They are much more than the
> > KYBs - for
> > > > >>> example, on Koni's website, a pair of front shocks for a 1970
> > Dodge
> > > > >>Challenger
> > > > >>
> > > > >>> lists for $320/pair (online price, $240) and the rear pair list
> > for $380
> > > > >>>(online
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> price, $285). And they do go for upwards of $500/pair in some
> > cases.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> To make the minimum order, I think it would be difficult to
> > convince a total
> > > > >>>of
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> 50 people worldwide, between both 300
> > > > clubs, the Imperial Club, both
> > > > >>Christine
> > > > >>
> > > > >>> clubs, and all the members of the Forwardlook list, to drop $600
> > on a set
> > > > of
> > > > >>> Koni shocks, when there are discussions of the KYBs being far too
> > expensive
> > > > >>at
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> over $100/set . . . and I wouldn't drive another one of these cars
> > without
> > > > >at
> > > > >>> least KYBs on it. The difference, to you who don't know, is like
> > AM radio
> > > > >>> versus satellite radio.
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> I personally would buy at least 2 sets of the Konis, after
> > experiencing the
> > > > >>> profound
> > > > difference of KYBs, and knowing the Konis are another quantum leap
> > > > >>> forward - I've only run them 65,000 miles on one car I've owned (a
> > '62
> > > > >Morgan
> > > > >>> +4) and was very impressed. One important and interesting feature
> > of the
> > > > >>>Konis,
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> is that they are adjustable for firmness/softness in their
> > rebound action.
> > > > >>> http://www.koni-na.com/comp.cfm
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Cheers,
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> John Spiers
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> ________________________________
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> There are some H.D. choices out there. Not many cheap one though.
> > > > >>>
> > > >
> > >>>http://www.amazon.com/Bilstein-Heavy-Duty-Shock-Absorber/dp/B001HIAMWU/ref=au_pf_pfg_s?ie=UTF8&Model=300%7C2489&n=15684181&s=automotive&Make=Chr
> > ysler%7C39&Year=1970%7C1970&newCar=1&carId=001
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>>1
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> Bill Huff
> > > > >>>
> > > > >>> At 7/21/201111:58 AM, Michael Moore wrote:
> > > > >>> >I installed those on my 300H and was grateful to get them.
> > > > >>> >I wish they were stiffer though.
> > > > >>> >Its almost as though there are no shocks on the car, but insofar
> > as
> > > > >>> >I know, that's all thats available.I wish Koni made a set to fit.
> > > > >>> >Mike
> > > > Moore
> > > > >>> >300H
> > > > >>> >
> > > > >>> >
> > > > >>> >On Jul 21, 2011, at 8:41 AM, Tony Bevacqua wrote:
> > > > >>> >
> > > > >>> > > KYB shocks. KG4507 and KG 5511 are the correct ones.
> > > > I just made a
> > > > >>> > > purchase for my 57 (shocks are correct for 1957 to 1964, I
> > believe).
> > > > >>> > > $116.32 for the 4 shocks, plus handling, etc.
> > > > >>> > > Tony
> > > > >>> > >
> > > > >>> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > > >>> > > From: Chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > [mailto:Chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]
> > > > On
> > > > >>> > > Behalf Of Marshall Larson
> > > > >>> > >
> > > > Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2011 8:26 AM
> > > > >>> > > To: Chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> > > > >>> >
> > > > > Subject: [Chrysler300] Shocks.
> > > > >>> > >
> > > > >>> > > Any suggestions for an appropriate brand and model of shocks
> > for a G. I
> > > > >>> > > don't need anything exotic, just proper ride and to deal with
> > the
> > > > radials
> > > > >>> > > that are on the car. All suggestions appreciated.
> > > > >>> > >
> > > > >>> > > MN Marshall
> > > > >>> > >
> > > > >>
> > > > >>[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > > >>
> > > > >>
> > > > >>
> > > > >>=
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > >
> > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > >
> > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >
> > >
> > >
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> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
> > ------------------------------------
> >
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> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
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>
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