Avanti shocks

[vaaraz]

[N8N]

have a look here (page 9)

http://members.cox.net/njnagel/files/Interchange.pdf

I would be tempted to go with one of the Koni or Bilstein interchanges listed, but be aware that nothing fits directly. You'll need to save some of the mounting pieces from your old shocks to make them work. Gabriel (what SI sells) and AC/Delco are the only shocks I'm aware of that actually are a bolt in direct fit. I believe that Dave Thibeault sells the correct AC/Delco shocks.

I think that the front HD coils are a good idea, and I would also consider adding HD rear leaf springs. I don't know that you will get enough benefit to make it worthwhile by converting to coil-overs, esp. since you would have to then fabricate some kind of three-link or four-link setup to locate the rear axle. You should have radius rods already which will do a lot to mitigate the drawbacks of a live axle/leaf spring setup.

How firm is "firm" depends on your perspective, really. My '55 coupe had HD suspension from stock, and I think it rides well. But my daily drivers have been a succession of VWs with modified suspension (usually with Konis) and most recently a Porsche 944, also with Konis, so I may be used to a little more harshness than your average driver. Normally I'd suggest that you try to find a car set up like your proposed setup to ride in as a baseline but that may be difficult in France

good luck

nate

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55 Commander Starlight
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