You will need the correct tool to install the bushings if you are going to use the 126 lemforder ones. The caps were really tight and if you force them in, you will destroy them. I had to buy another set, a different brand. Those caps went in ok. The bushings are not a problem.

The original LCA bushings on the 123 were quite beefy also and they were just swaged on one side. I just had them for about two months only so i cant tell if they are going to last.

So what is that tool?? SE I thought the point of the 126 ones was that they were easier to install by design, and beefier too...

The 126 bushing is very finicky to install. I'm REALLY close to having a tool made for the job. The prototype was straight walled and wouldn't fully support the puck.

The 123 design is far simpler to install. The 126 design is far stronger.

I'll wait for the 126 tool to rent both.

Is there a thread on that bush install and making the tool??

It is listed in the FSM, 1265890143. I tried all kinds of tools but nothing worked so i just brought the LCA to an independent mercedes shop. Attached are photos of the LCA bushings, damaged cap and the replacement cap that i used.

Check through chapter 33-520 in the FSM - it shows what to do for the "two part" and "three part" bearing

Just did this job a few months ago.

Used the ktc w124/126 lower control arm bushing press
Kit. http://shop.ktcautotools.com/products/mercedes-w124-w126-lower-control-arm-bushing-press-tool

Installed the three piece heavy duty bushing on my 123

The hardest part is removing the old bushing.

The press makes installation straightforward

If there is a thread or a WIKI it would be for a W126

Repair Links
Fast navigation http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diy-links-parts-category/146034-fast-navigation-do-yourself-links.html

I posted on this thread a few times years ago. I had a shop do my w123 LCA, but today I started on a w126 LCA three piece. So I figured I’d give a bit more info here.

I cut out the old ones and pressed in the new ones with a tool. Getting the old ones out is the hardest part.

https://i.imgur.com/4AJocIJl.jpg

The FSM says to use a counterbore bit to cut through. I didn’t have one that big, but will be buying one because cruising through these things any other way is for the birds.

https://i.imgur.com/EM6YcZHl.jpg

Eventually with enough cutting and beating they come out.

https://i.imgur.com/ooePhBtl.jpg

I used this tool:

https://i.imgur.com/8Ko7Lmml.jpg

It worked good but had some weaknesses.

https://i.imgur.com/YwPmQtIl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xKylY9Vl.jpg

Because of the flats on the bushing, it does bulge up but goes in fine. It did have water based lube.

https://i.imgur.com/Mnq8pZOl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/j3noVLPl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/iJmS9aZl.jpg

It pressed in fine, but the tool’s caps were stuck on. The tool metal is extremely soft and you need to beat the LCA out of the tool ends.

https://i.imgur.com/4MvMpPJl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/yA3wItnl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xeygY5nl.jpg

In the end it’s all good!

https://i.imgur.com/mKsqb0El.jpg