Thanks Brian. Seems like everyday I find myself being thankful that I found this forum and all it's helpful people - especially when i learn new ways not to kill myself while working on my cars!

Let's just say that the Klann clone that I have still gives me pause when the spring is fully compressed. Due to the design of the coils and the tilt in the compression plates, the compression is not perfectly straight............the spring is somewhat curved in the process.

The rear springs are no issue...........the front springs are a completely different story.

i have successfully used this style on the front end a few times. now on the rear end i made my own using 3/8'' plate notched in the right places and a 5/8 allthread.

It's possible with that clamp...but I wouldn't try it again
 

See this thread for fitment issues with the outside-the-spring tool. http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/258115-new-83-300cd-i-think-needs-alignment.html?highlight=alignment

You can't get symmetrical loading due to the wheel well wall to the front and the brake support arm to the rear.

Selecting and fitting the clamps to a specific coil is also a hassle. The upper clamp can't be too high on the spring since you need to slide the threaded rod through the upper clamp prior to threading it into the lower clamp.

And yes -- I realized I could have been killed when it slid and went "sproing" my re-install. The adrenaline dump wasn't fun, and the resulting stress of trying to safely decompress a loaded unstable spring wasn't fun. I had my wife on standby with the phone for a 911 call.

Baum Tools 924-0231 spring compressor is the domestic version of the Klann tool for much less $$. Its the same one on eBay.

http://www.baumtools.com/pdf/MB_Suspension.pdf
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Mercedes-Benz-Coil-Spring-Compressor-Suspension-Tools_W0QQitemZ110417664554QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMotors_Automotive_Tools?hash=item19b567da2a&_trksid=p4 506.c0.m245

I saw those. How about this one?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/INTERNAL-COIL-SPRING-COMPRESSOR-LIFETIME-WARRANTY-f_W0QQitemZ120460505151QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMotors_Automotive_Tools?hash=item1c0c01703f&_trksid=p4506. c0.m245

I wouldn't if you still like to have you body intact. The pivot pins are a weak point in these compressors. That is why the MB types are a thick flat plate.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/...1&d=1250826334

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/...1&d=1250826438

Here is my Stahlwille spring compressor that the PO had purchased from a MB Dealership. Has a different MB part number on each of the pieces.


http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/...1&d=1250827915


Incidentally, I still need to widen the spring pad hole to get the compressor through, along with popping out the UCA and loosen the shock to get the stock w123 617 turbo spring out with this tool.



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If you have the Baum Tool Coil Sring Compressor can you verify that it is actually made in the USA or is it something that the Bought a put the Baum name on?

For a job so dangerous I'd not settle for anything less than the best tool possible....

I reserved the right one today. Thanks everyone.

The drivers side LCA bushing has no more visible rubber. So it eats tires, according to the PO. I did replace the driveshafts and have driven it around the neighborhood. I like driving this TD. Although my foot it too big for the go pedal, I am going to remove a panel and see if that helps.

When I spoke with Baum this year when I bought their sway bar repair kit, they said they made the tool and also el paso in ebay. I sked because I was considering getting the tool. However, I have no real need for it so I have not purchased it yet. But as long as it works and does the job properly and safely, I guess it does not matter where it's made.