The Shock-Mockup tool features...
The Shock-Mockup tool features both 1/2-inch- and 5/8-inch-diameter boltholes at the ends, for builders who prefer either sized bolt.
We like finding out about homemade tools that hot rodders have created to solve some sort of in-shop dilemma. The best of them are simple in design, low in cost, and easy to use-the kind of thing that makes you ask, "Why didn't somebody think of this before?"
Sometimes, these "homemade" tools come out of a pro shop, like these temporary mock-up shock absorbers they use in the shop at Kugel Komponents. The crew at Kugel had been doing what many builders do when setting up a suspension-bolting in a length of flat stock with holes drilled at both ends prior to installing the shocks-when they came up with something better: a two-piece sliding Shock-Mockup consisting of a length of steel sliding inside an outer sleeve. A series of holes allows the part to be installed at various heights for determining the proper shock length.
Now, Kugel is manufacturing the Shock-Mockup for the hot rod market. These are available in three different lengths and can be used on independent or solid-axle suspensions, front or rear, anywhere tubular shocks or coilovers will be used.
 So, why didn't somebody think...  So, why didn't somebody think of this before? The Kugel Komponents Shock-Mockups consist of a 3/8-inch steel strut sliding inside a 1/8-inch steel outer sleeve. Both pieces are laser-cut and silver zinc-plated for durability. The holes in the inner strut are 1/2 inch apart. Two holes in the outer sleeve are 3/4 inch apart. That combination allows for adjustments in 1/4-inch increments. |  Jeff Kugel demonstrated the...  Jeff Kugel demonstrated the simple procedure on this Indy-style frontend. After removing the cotter pin and clevis pin, he lowered the control arms to the shock-absorber "top out" position, replaced the clevis pin, and took a measurement from the upper and lower mounting-hole centers. He raised the arms to "bottom out" position and measured again. He now had the lengths of the shock fully extended and fully compressed. On a traditional frontend, you'd use a jack to raise and lower the upper shock mount bracket. |  He measured a third time with...  He measured a third time with the Shock-Mockup set up at the middle position to determine ride height. |
 Jeff Kugel demonstrated the...  Jeff Kugel demonstrated the simple procedure on this Indy-style frontend. After removing the cotter pin and clevis pin, he lowered the control arms to the shock-absorber "top out" position, replaced the clevis pin, and took a measurement from the upper and lower mounting-hole centers. He raised the arms to "bottom out" position and measured again. He now had the lengths of the shock fully extended and fully compressed. On a traditional frontend, you'd use a jack to raise and lower the upper shock mount bracket. | | |