1975 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu Classic

https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ank/cto/5317560807.html

 

I very much like how on this wagon....lacking a better term for it, seller shoved the front bumper back as flush as it could go, looks way better IMO than the factory job 5MPH bumper.................

 

From what I remember, you drill a hole in the bumper shocks, then put them in a vice and crank it down.

 

Drill a hole in the bottom of the bumper shock(towards the outside of the shaft but still covered when pushed in) Put a pan under it as it will leak out the shock fluid forever if you don't. Then take a 4x4 and a medium to large hammer and mildly tap it back. won't hurt that bumper a bit that way.

 

a medium to large hammer and mildly tap it back.

Would that be one of those BFH's ?

 

Would doing this not mean that the "cushion" effect of the federally-mandated bumpers on shock is lost, and any impact whatsoever would damage the car body? I'm not saying I agree with the federal oversight, but just asking.

 

Yup. Next thing that bends is the frame rail.........

 

You would lose the cushion, as in the impact would be more brunt with the shock collapsed. The impact is direct to the frame though, not the body.
The 5mph shock is nice for light bumps, but the honest answer is that most frames of the GM cars 1973-80's can tolerate a 15mph hit regardless of that shock and for the most part show no sign it occurred. The shock was the early born idea of crumple zones, but these cars just didn't need that shock.