Bumper shock question

[ddax]

Someone have a good guess how hard an impact it would take to compress the front bumper shocks about 3"?
Could someone parallel parking do it?

Thanks

[TommySS]

A lot. If you hit it too hard, it'll stay compressed and release when you least expect it.

Could parallel parking do it? Absolutely.

If you're trying to free up a compressed bumper shock (isolator), I used a propane torch (and was EXTREMELY careful) and a hammer to get it released

[ddax]

'83 Caprice

I don't know what happened. It obviously got bumped fairly hard. No way you could do this much damage and not know you hit it. My son doesn't know what happened, but he had it parked on the street while at school last week. All the kids park around there and I suppose someone hit it trying to squeeze in! First week after he gets his license - damn shame!

The hood latches but both front corners are up about 3/8" above the fenders - they don't rest on the rubber bumpers underneath anymone. You see it wobble a bit driving because it is only supported in the center by the latch. The grill is cracked a couple places in the middle (you can only see it from behind) and there is a gap of about 1/4" right in the center where it should be up against the piece that is right in front of the hood. On the sides, the trim just in front of each quarter panel is pushed out about 1/4 to 3/8". Looking down at the bumper shocks you can see where about 3" on each is has had the crude wiped off from the compression of the shocks. They bounced back, but must not have all the way. And I assume they bottomed out or there would not have been any other damage.

Can I get it out more, and would that help any with the hood and sides?
Damn!

[Blue Bowtie]

If you have the fluid type energy absobers, I would avoid any kind of torch heat at all.

[ddax]

I got a quote today from a very good local body shop. He thinks he can put it right for $112. I was very pleased!

My son's taking it in for the school car show tomorrow. The car looks great. He and I have been washing/waxing(love that Zymol) and shining it up. '83 4-door, black, sitting on Cragar S/S with 235/60 and 275/60. Just got the Flowmaster 50 Delta on today. Looks and sounds really sweet!

[kahjdh]

Nice ride, lets see some pics of it.