Shock absorbers

[k. rogers]

Does anybody know if the bushes for the Andre Hartford shocks will fit the original early 'thirties Smith shocks?

[Jeremy]

Are they the type with the narrow drums wrapped with friction material? If so then I'm pretty sure the answer is yes. The inner bush size definitely fits the chassis and axle pins. You just need to check the outer bush diameter. Sports and Vintage in Shrewsbury might be able to help with dimensions they are usually very good like that

[k. rogers]

Thanks for your reply, Jeremy. Yes, they are that type and that sounds promising. I'll measure the diameter and give them a call.

[Tony Fearn]

Hi Ken.
What a stroke of luck that Jeremy knew what you were talking about!
I haven't seen this type of shock absorber, so perhaps a photo for us all would be nice, and perhaps a bit about which Jowetts they were fitted to.
Both 'Mary Ellen' and 'Sarah Jane' have the Luvax hydraulic type.

009.JPG

Regards,
Tony.

[k. rogers]

I will endeavour to post a photo when I've taken it, but in the meantime, the shock was produced by Frank Smith in Helland , Yorkshire. I have 4 fitted to my 1933 Kingfisher which I have been busy finishing the restoration of during lockdown - still not finished quite yet, but getting there!
It is a friction type absorber but works differently to the Hartford type (which uses discs of hardwood) and consists of a drum over which a friction material is sandwiched between the two moving parts. It was introduced in 1928, so I would say that Jowett used them from that time up to the introduction of the Luvax type for the '34 model year.
It would seem from the dimensions that the bushes used in the Hartford type will fit the Smith variety, so have ordered 8.

[k. rogers]

Smith shock.jpg

[Brucegirvan]

Ken - did the Hartford bushes fit? Also, as we’ve just acquired another 1930, Long 2 this time, which has Smiths’ shocks, I was wondering if you had any tips for adjustment, maintenance, dos/don’ts etc.?

[k. rogers]

Hi Bruce. Turns out they are the same as the later Luvax type which I believe are available through Club spares. I've yet to test drive the Kingfisher on the road as I'm still awaiting a new wiring loom. I expect the adjustment will be trial and error!