Helical spring around fifties shock- purpose?

[Don57]

I asked a few friends recently what they think the purpose of the helically wound spring is that was on OEM Ford rear shocks in the fifties and maybe into the sixties. Friends came up with two possibilities:
1. Reduce the impact of stones hitting the shock and,...
2. By adding the helix coil, it might act as a "heat Sink" and reduce the temperature of the fluid in the shock.
As you know, the fluid gets hot if the car is going over bumpy roads. The heat would be mostly near the bottom where the valving restriction is.
I called Gabriel Tech line and they are trying to go back in history and see if they have any credible information- no response yet. I
Please let me know what you think, and also please send me a note via Email if you have time.
My email is fast427@frontier.com
I've tried to attach a photo but I am not sure it is actually going to attach. If you want to see a photo please send me an email and I'll respond.
Thanks, Don A

[RICH MUISE]

I have no idea, but welcome to the forum.
My only thought is maybe when it is installed, the top of the spring is inside the top/outer part of the shock and helps keep road rash and  mud out.

[thomasso]

number 1

[Don57]

Thanks for the reply (No. 1). I hope a few others will also offer their thoughts. Don A

[suede57ford]

Don,

I bet you are right about it being a heat sink for the shock. 

Pat

[Fabulous50s]

I'd think No1 and/or No2. Depending on what Ford's road course revealed.