One of my front susp. springs has broken down near where it mounts into the control arm, so I must replace it (and the other side as well).

I am considering replacing the entire front end myself, as having my good mech just replace both springs would set me back about $500. I've priced out the parts (ball joint, spring, strut mount, bilstein strut, control arm, eccentric bolt kit, control arm bushings, bellows, bump stop, - the whole nine yards).

I am debating whether to replace the control arm completely, or just replace the ball joints and bushings. Considering the paid labor to do the ball joints (I estimate $60 total) and the work to replace the bushings, I am considering spending just a bit more money and getting all new control arms which already come with that stuff.

It would cost a bit more, but would save me a good bit of work and two trips to the machine shop.

Are there OEM control arm manufacturers to seek out? Avoid?

Please advise. (Yes, I know I have to rent the MB spring compressor).

Any thing else to consider - tie rods? what else?

How much extra would going "sportline" add to the total bill. I do plan on replacing the rear end this fall.

(Also am considering rebading my car as a 250D, as that would be the correct euro badge - maybe after I install the Euro lights later this year).

Chris Blanchard
1992 300D 2.5 Turbo 160,002 miles
Cincinnati, OH