1984 300D: rebuildlng front suspension question. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

merc lover · #1 10-01-2019, 09:27 AM

I'm thinking I am going to use the original springs, however in order to rebuild the suspension (shocks, tie rods, etc.) I believe I need to remove the springs. Question: Should I replace the coil spring pads and/or rubber coil spring bushings with new parts?

ROLLGUY · #2 10-01-2019, 11:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by merc lover

I'm thinking I am going to use the original springs, however in order to rebuild the suspension (shocks, tie rods, etc.) I believe I need to remove the springs. Question: Should I replace the coil spring pads and/or rubber coil spring bushings with new parts?

I have done several suspension rebuilds, and have never replaced springs or spring pads. That does not mean you shouldn't, do so. Unless the spring pads or other rubber parts are worn through (never seen it happen), then no need to replace IMO.

jay_bob · #3 10-01-2019, 12:54 PM

And make sure you use the proper spring compressor! The ones for Japanese cars/McPherson Struts are totally inappropriate for the MB springs and are dangerous to use on them.

Squiggle Dog · #4 10-01-2019, 01:37 PM

Spring pads can crush down, harden, and crack over time. Renewing them can restore a minute amount of ride height (2-3 mm) and soften bumps slightly. Hardened spring pad rubber is also more likely to wear away the metal of the springs. They can be inexpensive, depending on the part number.

You can tell how thick yours are by the number of nubs on one side. I replaced mine with like, but wish I would have installed the thickest pad available on the rear so the car would have a slight stance to it.

I used a $50 Chinese spring compressor from eBay (which was intended for Mercedes coil springs) but after doing one car, I feel that the worm gear is too worn to risk using it again (even though I greased the threads). Extreme caution must be used and definitely don't aim the compressed spring at yourself.

Unfortunately, on the W116 (which I have) the hole through which the front spring compressor must fit needs to be made larger.

CDTurbo001 · #5 10-01-2019, 02:14 PM

Personally: replace pads, leave springs.

Sugar Bear · #6 10-01-2019, 02:47 PM

I'd leave the springs replace pads too. That is if the springs look excellent, not corroded. Do use extra caution with any springs. Be assured they are waaaay faster than any of us.

Good luck!!!

Squiggle Dog · #7 10-01-2019, 02:57 PM

Mercedes springs typically last forever unless they get too rusty--but some models have weak springs which sag after a lot of use; I think this is some W126 rear springs.

vwnate1 · #8 10-01-2019, 11:13 PM

As mentioned, replace all things rubber / elastic, this includes the spring pads .

Please let us know how it went, I've done the entire front end on two of my W123's and love how they drive

.

BE CAREFUL WITH THE SPRING COMPRESSOR ! the spring will go right through you and splatter your spine against the shop wall if it gets the chance .

merc lover · #9 10-02-2019, 10:16 AM

Thank you for all the replies, I believe I will go ahead and replace the spring pads while I am in there. I bought a spring compressor from amazon that had good reviews for mercedes work. I wish I had the money for a Klan brand spring compressor but I believe this one will perform adequately.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00H99582U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

In addition, I'm thinking of buying a full face coverage bell brand motorcycle helmet along with a chest and groin protector used by hockey goalies from a local sporting goods store to protect my vital body parts while compressing the springs. To some, this might appear to be excessive, but let's face it, a spring launching through the air has the potential to do great bodily harm!

In addition, I've read that some people physically tie the spring to the body of the car using rope or chain while compressing the spring using the spring compressor. That way, if the spring launches unexpectedly the tie down will at least slow it down if not stop it.

Junkman · #10 10-02-2019, 11:57 AM

That looks like the compressor I used. Destructions caution against using an impact on it. Be sure to grease the threads. I used wheel bearing grease which worked fine.

Have on hand at least 1 bolt each that holds the upper and lower control arms to the body. If they don't come out easily, grab the sawzall immediately and don't waste time thinking something is wrong. Just cut the bolt and replace it. You may not need the bolts bot won't want the project held up if they're rusty.

Threaded rod and washers pressed the bushings into the LCA. Again, use grease on the rod and get fine thread if you can.

barry12345 · #11 10-02-2019, 11:59 AM

The body and face protection would be a waste of money. A 123 front spring getting loose has far too much power for them to deflect. Or deal with. So far to the best of my knowledge we have never had a member have this issue.

merc lover · #12 10-02-2019, 03:14 PM

I'd like to figure out a way to tie the spring to the body/frame using a strong steel cable. I figure if you tie it off using 4 - 6 steel cables, it won't be going anywhere.

ROLLGUY · #13 10-02-2019, 04:17 PM

The problem is when one removes the spring/compressor assembly from the car to place it somewhere safe. It is like carrying a handful of sweaty dynamite wearing static charged clothing. I have done it many times, but I will be honest in saying it always got my heart beating heavier while removing it from the car.

merc lover · #14 10-02-2019, 09:46 PM

I'm wondering if you took the spring while compressed and placed it into a smallish safe, shut the door, spun the dial and take a deep sigh of relief.

After you complete the work on one side of the car, open the safe and carefully remove the compressed spring and place it back in the car.

This idea wouldn't totally remove the danger but if something gave out at least the safe should contain that demon possessed mother.

ROLLGUY · #15 10-02-2019, 09:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by merc lover

I'm wondering if you took the spring while compressed and placed it into a smallish safe, shut the door, spun the dial and take a deep sigh of relief.

After you complete the work on one side of the car, open the safe and carefully remove the compressed spring and place it back in the car.

This idea wouldn't totally remove the danger but if something gave out at least the safe should contain that demon possessed mother.

Again, it is the time between the removal of the compressed spring and insertion into the safe that is scary. It is even more scary muscling the compressed spring back into the upper spring pocket (especially with new rubber parts)........Rich

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