Re: [VAC] newbie

[ECox101466@xxxxxxx]

If you have the same shocks as I have on my 1974 27 ft. International, they 
are probably available only through an Airstream dealer or at the Airstream 
store in Jackson Center.

I have searched all over-NAPA parts and several of the other big auto parts 
and RV places in Florida and have not been able to get a replacement.

The nomenclature on my shock is "Delco 497-5425."  It functions in a nearly 
horizontal position and resists PULLING forces.

The Airstream factory customer rep. Rick March-informed me that Delco is no 
longer the supplier and they use the same shock on the new A/S's but I would 
either have to get them through an authorized A/S dearer or come directly to 
the A/S factory store.  They will NOT ship directly to a customer.

I removed a shock and took it around to several auto parts stores and asked 
them to match it.  They could not.  Either the shock they had were configured 
differently-the opening in the mounting bracket was too large/small or they 
functioned differently-ie. they resisted PUSHING instead of PULLING forces.

Two NAPA stock numbers I looked at were: #20712 a liquid filled shock which 
was designed to mount in a nearly vertical position-IAW the tech.  The other 
was #940005-a gas filled shock.  Both were designed to resist PUSHING forces 
vice PULLING forces.  They tried their Monroe hotline and there were no 
crossover stock #'s that were substitutes.

Ed