How To: Restoring a 10 Cwt trailer

[Robert Bergeron]

Q : Is there someone who overhauls original WW2 Gabriel shock absorbers ? Q : Anybody got NOS 485 chocks ?

[Bob Carriere]

I am not aware of anyone rebuilding these sealed units.

First option is to clean them up externally and re install.....for the amount of driving you will do they will be fine.

Second option....cleanup/wirebrush the shock body...... you may find the Gabriel part number........ Gabriel still makes shocks very similar to yours. You will need to match the eye piece size and the length compressed and fully extended..........

Good luck

Bob C

[Bob Carriere]

part number 81676......fits jeep 1945 front or rear......... what are the chances they are the same???????

Extended Length 17.73"
Collapsed Length 11.12"
Stroke 6.61"


Bonne chance.

[Robert Bergeron]

Thanks Bob for the tip i will look it up . The Ford truck master cylinder installed on these trailers ( previous picture with the shocks ) is still available brand new : Here is the part number . It is a perfect fit !

[Robert Bergeron]

Hi all . I was missing a tow hook for the new trailer . Not finding any i took the one off the trailer i already had . Then i got a call over the week end from my good friend Michel who knew i was on the hunt for a Canadian hook . After work today i turned right when leaving CFB Valcartier and ventured into Shannon and called on my buddy . This is what he had in store for me .... Brand new NOS CMP hook . Original grease nipple , same as found on my MKII Carrier . He had more if anyone is interested . Next the wiring harness and the lights .

[Robert Bergeron]

Speaking of lights ... my friend helped me take a head start on that chapter . . NOS Standard CMP stop/parking lights . Just what the doctor ordered. Great guy that Michel . Your 1156 LED bulbs suggestion might get tried here Bob Carriere .

[Robert Bergeron]

I am happy to report that both trailers now have a tow hook and a “T” plate . Notice the little hook above the licence plate . I found it on the latest trailer and made a copy for this one . It’s for holding the following trailer’s pigtail cable when the plug is attached in the trailer socket of the preceding trailer .