You are referring to the REAR shocks?
ALL shocks installed from the Dodge, Plymouth and Chrysler factories were oil filled tubular design WITHOUT helper coils. Like many other "wear" items, they were replaced when they went bad. These non-stock shocks were a popular aftermarket item to boost sagging springs. The reason that you may have seen them so often is because it WAS popular to lift the rear end of hot rods to fit larger tires.
ALSO... welcome to the wild and wacky website!