my 1983 300SD (190K miles) has a rusted trailing arm where the coil spring and shock mount, if it keeps rusting shock will fall through. looking at service manual alot of special tools (spring comprssor, pullers, ect.) are called for! is this a diy job or not?

James,
If you do decide to do it yourself be sure to be VERY careful when using the spring compresser. The amount of force contained in a compressed spring can be deadly!

It could be done on the garage floor by a very resourceful person. If so, just take your time and be careful.

------------------
Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

This was (is) kind of a common problem in my part of the country on both 123 and 126 chassis cars. You can find good used arms if you look. Call Potomac. I usually install a new bearing kit and rear parking brake shoes, when doing this.
Also this is a good time to check the condition of the rear shocks & parking brake cables.

------------------