4matic rally modifications

Newbie, here I've done a brief scan and search of previous message topics, but did not see anything on my subject. Please forgive if this has been dealt with before.

I'm planning to get a E320 4matic wagon soon, but wanted to raise it a little (maybe an inch or two at the most) so it would be capable of handling even very bad roads. These and other related mods (larger rolling dia. wheel/tire combos) will entail some real expertise to do right.

I thought maybe someone knew of a resource that has expertise in this sort of conversion, perhaps a MB rally racing shop.

Thanks in advance. Any advice is welcome.

[ss109]

If you want something to go offroading with, get a M-Class (barely off-roadable M55 that is )or a Galendawagon. The statiowagon is not ment to be an off-roading car. However, if you mean 'rough' as just being gravel, dips, holes, etc, you should have no prob with the factory setup.

I did take a close look at the ML series (with its 1-inch greater ground clearance and better approach, departure and breakover angles), but, as you note, I'm not looking for off-road capability (no need for low-range gearbox, etc.) Also, I was much more impressed with E class build quality (I've been driving a '97 E420) and road manners.

It's just that some so-called roads wash out or have deep tarcks and high center ridges. That sort of thing.

By and large I'm very pleased with the E wagon, 'just want to tweak it a bit in the 4matic direction (as others tweak them a bit in the street performance direction).

You could make one badass car with some time and money. I'm picturing you want a slightly taller stance (similar to an Outback or something) right? Throw a small winch on front, thin-tube custom brush guard, rally lights, integrated backing lights (in rear fender), CB, bolt-down second spare in cargo area, skid plates, gas-adjustable shocks, cargo rack up top - ooohhh - that could be a really fun car to go tripping in...

My personal vision is not quite so radical: taller stance, skid plates, adjustable shocks. I have some country property and friends have moutain houses where deeply rutted roads are common. Any ideas for sources of engineering advice for such mods?