Strut Installation on '82 TD Wagon: Help
 

I am in the middle of trying to install spring struts on an 82 300TD. The problem I am facing is that the installation procedure is different for the '82 wagons (and earlier models-pre 8/82 production) than it is for the later models due to a change made in the cross frame and hence the bushing kit to install the upper strut. Has any one ever done this job on an '82 or earlier wagon and if so can you offer any suggestions as to the proper way to do this job? Also I am curious about the procedure for replacing the ball joint at the base of the strut. One of the struts I am using needs a new one and it seems that special tools are involved. Is there any way it can be done with conventional tools?? Any and all assistance would be greatly appreciated.

peace,
woody

Last request on this subject
 

Since no one seems to know the answer to this question does anyone know someone who might know that i can call or another web site where i might be able to find the answer to my elusive question. i have been searching for the answer for two weeks with no luck.

see my other thread for more in depth discussion of this dilema.
123 Wagon Spring Struts-2 Versions-Interchangeable?

Update
 

the saga continues. I received from Star TEK today file 40-0310 which just furthers the confusion as it shows some sort of "pulling device" and "mounting pins" which are supposed to "pull down the vehicle to the specified control point (simulating load condition)" by hooking these devices into the rear mount of the rear axle carrier on the frame floor and then "locking" them. Anyone ever heard of these devices or used them? didn't think so.

At this point, now that I have all the parts, my plan is to install the lower suspension of the strut and tighten it, then loosely assemble the upper bushing kit, lower the car on the ground, and get it to the proper ride height by loading the rear end before I tighten down the upper suspension of the strut. If this doesn't work i give up.

I wish I had the knowledge on this to pass along, but then again, I'm kinda glad I never had to do it on the long lost '80 wagon. I did the accumulators on it, but never had to mess with the struts.
It sounds like what you are proposing is sound. Take some pics along the way. You may become our first expert on the subject. ;)

Hey Woody,
I asked somebody on a French MB board, and they sent me a link to an owners manual for 1978. It's still hard to work out, but it basically says that when you're replacing the version 1 rear struts you need a full tank of fuel (or extra weight 1 liter= 1 kilo) and a weight of approx 150 kilos on the rear floor. If your wagon has uprated suspension (??) you need 400 kilos on the rear floor. Voila!
Don't ask me what a kilo weights in groats, or pebbles or whatever you guys still use.
Take care
Giles

Proper Measurements
 

for the benefit of anyone needing this infor in the future along with the weight requirements posted by Giles (150 kilos = 330 Lbs) I found out that the proper height is 12.75" measured from the center of the star on the hubcap to the top point of the wheel well. hope this helps someone someday.

peace,
woody