Telescopic shock absorbers

[`Gordonhbm]

It seems to be  the accepted position that telescopic shock absorbers are not acceptable on Austin 7 cars.  I think this view is a result of the VSCC position that  telescopic  shock absorbers on vintage cars is not acceptable since they were not used/available in vintage times I.de before the end of 1930.  This of course utter nonsense.  They were  fitted as original equipment in the Lancia Lambda from the first car in 1922 where they were incorporated within the sliding pillars of the front suspension.  They were also fitted to the 3 wheeler Morgan in vintage times.  They were fitted to the Singer and Singer junior from August 1928.  They were advertised as aftermarket items In July 1928 for Austin 7 cars.  I attach example of the Singer models and the aftermarket fittings for Austin 7.
On the basis of this evidence I can see no reason why they should not be used on Austin 7's  from late 1928 as in period modifications.
What are peoples views?

[JohnD]

Looks like a GE Cup model in the advert - i have not seem this before, very interesting.

Does anyone know if any of these advertised systems by Newton to have survied and still in use on a car today?

[Howard Wright]

Hi Gordon

I’m not sure there is an accepted position! I think that what ‘people’ use on their Seven’s is a matter for themselves to decide.  There are purists that will tut tut, special builders that will embrace them and others that may use them if convenient.

I must admit, that personally, I would wince if I saw telescopics fitted to an otherwise standard car but don’t mind them on a Special.

Remember the VSCC is made up of members who ultimately make up the organisation’s rules and if you join an organisation you should accept their rules!

Cheers

Howard

[Steve kay]

Careful now, in case vengeance drones are sent out to chase you, launched  from a car park in Hockley Heath. Remind me of the front suspension on the Crouch Helix just visible in the picture, a car always to be seen as pre 1930 eligible on the VSCC Welsh Trial? Mind you, it is owned by well known and respected Singer specialist Keith Hill.....  PS, a pal who has a very original early Chummy, 6" brakes and no shocks, say only hairdressers have shock absorbers. Or he will when we have pulled him out of the hedge.

[Alan]

Telescopic dampers were available in the vintage years, but very few manufacturers chose to use them. Probably, they understood that with stiff springs and low roll velocities, actually friction disc dampers work somewhat better.

[AustinWood]

As I understand it telescopic shockabsorbers need rather more travel than is readily available on the Austin suspension. To have any chance of a resonable travel they would need to attach as close as possible to the end of the axle.

[Chris KC]

I was taught much the same as Alan & Austin Wood - they are simply unsuitable for the task. They would only actually be beneficial on a special with super stiff frame and very soft springs / IFS.

[Hugh Barnes]

I am away from my books at the moment, but isn't that what Bill Williams recommended in his 'Specials' book?

[Alan]

Yes, but on this point I disagree.

[Hairy]

I had friction shock absorbers on my Model A Special, but changed to the original type Rotoflo hydraulic shock absorbers which resulted in an improved ride.