126 guide rod bushings - conflicting info

[chetwesley]

1983 300SD

Ok, I have done a bit of research on this (ie: read every post about it). Can someone explain to me why some people say you need to compress the spring, and other people say you don't?

When I look at this DIY article:
http://www.peachparts.com/Wikka/W126GuideRodMount

The word "spring" is not even mentioned in the whole article.

Also, is removing the Suspension Bearing Bracket absolutely necessary to get the guide rod mount out? I remember seeing someone mentioning that they did it without removing the bracket, not knowing you were supposed to remove the bracket.

Last thing -- I have asked about this in another post, but only got one opinion about it (no offense to the one opinion giver, thanks). I am relatively new to DIY -- just a few simple things - alternator, oil pan gasket, oil changes, fuel filters, glow plugs. Is this something out of my reach?

The article by whunter says even he doesn't like doing the job with a full shop (and obviously a lot of experience).

Can anyone who's had a shop do it tell me what it cost you?

Thanks