I usually do the bounce test. Put weight on car to get it osciallating, if it keeps bouncing when you stop, probably need new shocks. Passes this test great, but man, it looks like it blew it's seal. Ride seems good, but all I have to compare it to is my truck.

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1983 300SD

From the photo, I don't see any fluid loss at the bottom of the shock. There is some moisture on the spring, on the opposite side to the shock. But, I conclude that the shock didn't cause this moisture??

Shocks that pass the bounce test can continue in service. Naturally, a brand new Bilstein is going to perform better...........just a question of time and money.

What I see is a shock with the bottom part covered in thick grime (my asumption is it is oil that cuased the grime) but the top is not. If it were due to just moisture, the top would be all nasty too. But, since the top is not, and only the bottom, I'm thinking maybe the seal blew, spluging oil down the shock, causing the nasty grime on the lower portion only.

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1983 300SD

I want to replace my shocks with the best shocks available thus producing the best ride...What type would you recommend...for a 1993 300D 2.5L L-5

Thanks in Advance

Iceman

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1993 300D 2.5L 240,000+ miles

OK, the uniformity of the color on the lower section threw me off. Yes, it's leaking slightly, but all shocks do this over time. In fact, the literature on the brand new Bilsteins specifically state that slight weeping of oil will NOT be grounds for a replacement under warranty.

Now, how much oil can leak out and still leave the shock with proper function...........that is the question.

As I mentioned, brand new Bilsteins will perform better than these. But, it's not critical if the shock is still performing adequately.

You planning on doing any rally events..............

I can't comment on the W124 but the general consensus for the W126 is the Bilstein "comforts". They are plenty stiff enough. In fact, I find them to be too stiff on poor pavement. But, then again, I don't drive the W126 like a racecar.

Cool, I didn't know about weeping being normal. I'll just watch it and go by the bouce test. Unless I enter the Pikes Peak race

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1983 300SD

experience, you can have a bilstein that passes the bounce test but the ride really sucks. that shock could have been slowly leaking quite a while. when the gas gets away the ride will be bouncy but the shock will still provide control for gross vehicle control. (actually i dont know if the gas is the reason, but i have observed this behaviour characteristic many times)

i have never used the comfort bilstein but the sport and the regular are similar enough that i dont see any dramatic diff.

i drive my benzes hard in corners, if there is a chance to do it safley, so i have had several with the sport shocks. when new, they may seem hard for a few months til the break in.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

If it passes the bounce test it is serviceable but the ride won't be as good as new Bilsteins.

It all comes down to time and money, new Bilsteins will make a difference it depends if it is worth it for you.

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2016 Corvette Stingray 2LT
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200