In reagrds to the lower control arms. They are steel & rust out over time due to the amount of road salt & grime, etc..... that build up and cause them to rust out. The only way to correct it is to swap the control arm out complete, but only after installing new bushings. (if used) Again, the W123/126 and other chassis share the same lower control arm (rear) and we sell a few a day for the reason I had mentioned. Just a thought, check it out & keep us posted.