Re-Build a W123 Front End
 

My cars steering is groaning, stiff, and generally old feeling. First I will check the steering box for fluid and maybe adjust it but I may well be in need for a front end permofix. I have tie-rods, a drag link and ball joints (lower). What else should I buy to do the job right? I'm planning to rent a BJ (oops) tool from performance products to do the lowers. The uppers are new already based on nice soft rubber and shiny control arms. The car's steering is really wierd, pulls a bit left, then pulls right after hard turns in either direction. I'm gonna play around with checking boots etc but need to know is there more I should get, idler arm ???, steering box ??? This is going to be a DIY job so I have to be practical. Since I'm busting my hump anyway, what else should I do while making myself crazy. I'm way too old for this crap, but love it (I think) MANTRA: 30 mpg, 30 mpg, 30 mpg

Replace the track rod mounts on both sides too.

20 & 21 here ??

Item 20. Measure the length of item 21 prior to removal and try to make the length equal the same with the new item 20. This will get it close enough to get it to an alignment shop when you finish the work. You do not need the spring comp to replace item 20 but it is somewhat of a chore to pull the lower control arm forward enough to replace it. I use a come along with the other end fastened to something that will not move and ease the lower control arm forward slowly.

lower control arm is number 8.

Harbor Freight list it as a cable puller. They are pretty cheap. I put one end around the outer part of the lower control arm and the other end into the tow hook on the back of the SD.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=30329

Did the front and rear end complete rebuild. Heres the links

The first post asking for advice.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/57634-car-rebuild-recommendations.html?highlight=front+end+rebuild

Sway bar bushing R+R

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/57538-sway-bar-bushing-replacement-mounting-bushings.html?highlight=front+end+rebuild

More info

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/57454-suspension-rebuild-review-questions.html?highlight=front+end+rebuild

More

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/60560-300td-suspension-rebuild-progress.html?highlight=coil+spring+compressor

The rear end if your so inclined

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/60964-300td-rear-suspension-rebuild.html?highlight=coil+spring+compressor

Dave

Be sure to stay away from generic alignment shops. Only go to Mercedes approved shops because they will have the special tools needed.

There is a general repair place here in Leesburg, Virginia that has the latest Hunter alignment equipment. It seems to be a well-run shop. Since they have the latest high-tech stuff, wouldn't they be able to align my 1985 300D even though they do not specialize in Benz's?