MTFCA Forum

Can anyone identify this odd spring setup?

One of several makes of aftermarket cantilever shocks.

I had a similar set of shocks embossed "Lake Mfg." that were installed on a front axle that I picked up years ago.

When I took them apart, they were completely worn out. They had no bushings - just iron against iron. The non-Ford parts had no provisions for lubrication other than just squirting them with oil.

Personally, I'm not a fan of aftermarket shocks. Unless they have been rebuilt, I think they are dangerous. Also, I think they are incredibly ugly and detract from the looks of the car.

Duncan and Fraser offered English Richards Willcox brand shocks like those. These too have no bushings. If you can find some that are not too worn, they can be drilled out to take a bronze bushing. They do make a noticeable difference to the ride, especially on heavier cars. The design is much more stable than the tower type which have been blamed for some serious accidents.
My Duncan and Fraser wide body roadster has them, as does my Henrietta, a legacy of her early days as a tourer before conversion to a buckboard. The lack of appreciable wear in her set is further evidence of her gentle life.

Allan from down under.

Thank you much for the info y’all. They will be coming off, but I had no idea who made them.

Should be an easy sale - folks who have them really do like them

I have a set of those I would like to sell. Darryl