Do friction shocks really work or are they just for looks

When I first built my T Bucket, I used friction shocks. Honestly, I couldn't tell if it was the shocks working or just the front spring. They did bounce the tires, but I tightened them up and that was that.

I have short tube shocks now and I can tell they are working and working great. If you can do tube shocks, do it. You'll feel the difference.

 

I've been wondering if brakeshoe/clutchplate type friction material would work and hold up better than leather?
The brass/wood combination is interesting too though.

 

I've got to believe the key is what kind of wood they use.

 

Try the teflon,,,,, WORLD OF DIFFERENCE. When I bought my first set from TP years ago, they had some type of impregnated rubber, after a few years it was gone. I put the teflon ones in my t I drive daily 4 years ago, took the shocks off to get to a clamp that broke (electric wire clamp) ad those things looks as good as they did 4 years ago.

 

First picture is of my home made friction with UHMW used as friction material, no spring, steel plate welded to chassis UHMW, the arm and another UHMW and a aluminum plate with a 3/8" bolt with a nylock nut. Second picture is of original Hartford friction shocks. It does not ride like a new car but rides fair.

 

Flathead Vicky every one is giving good information to you but just check your king pins inclination they should be laying back a minimum of 7 degrees or more, I built a T that had the same wobble and that was my problem..

 

Fitted Hartford shocks on the front of mine. Persuaded as to how well they worked after a ride in a Buggatti. Look the nuts, well I think so ! Got a load of pics from a vintage hill climb if anyone wants more .
They were pricey and need some attention to make them work well. I soaked the wooden discs in trans fluid ( tip from an old guy with a bentley )and used a torque wrench to get equal pressure on each side, too little pressuer and no control at all, too much and very harsh ride, you need a big bump to make them move.
At some point I will move the mounting points closer to the wheels to make them work better, need to find a way without welding the chromed axle.

 

Pics didnt attatch first go !!

 

I agree, "they look the nuts".

I notice you have the large 506M style made for cars up to 4400 pounds with the two blades into three and the four 4 1/2" diameter discs. Also a rather healthy spring showing in the photo.

You're not hiding a Rolls Royce Merlin in there are you?

LOL

 

Merlin, I wish !!
Pontiac 400, soon to be blown (up says my son )

 

Do you have/ need a panhard bar. Just making sure it was not death wobble. That too can be scary.

 

Here we go again! Death wobble on the HAMB.

Balance the front tires (on a machine!) 'Kin Pin Inclination' mentioned is actually caster, and YES! Lean that front axle back 7 degrees.