C280 Sport Suspension (Upgrade?) - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Austin814 · #1 04-23-2002, 02:33 PM

I guess I have a few questions. It seems like the ride is getting less the smooth on my C280 recently. Since it’s the sport version it is a little tighter but the bumps and patches on the road I used to hear, I am now feeling. It recently turned over 100K miles and I'm wondering if its time to do some suspension work, or just replace some rubber pieces? I live in Indiana where we have a 5th season: spring, road construction, summer, fall and winter. From what I have read the suspension usually lasts 125K but I think it’s possible that the time is now. If this sounds reasonable should I stick with OE parts or are there aftermarket upgrades worth looking into? I'm not looking for a race setup, just an upgrade if it’s reasonable. If anyone could supply me with a list of what parts would be needed that would be great. Also, does anyone know what the estimated shop time would be to install whatever would be needed?

Thanks,
Brad

E55 KEV · #2 04-23-2002, 04:30 PM

If you have to or want to change the suspension go with the parts from the 1997 C36AMG complete with new rubber bushings.

Austin814 · #3 04-26-2002, 12:02 PM

Would that suspension setup work with 215/60HR/15 tires? The OE tires 195/60/15 and I went to a larger size.

Thanks

-fad · #4 04-26-2002, 12:56 PM

Prior to considering specific suspension upgrades, I'd suggest first determining which items on your suspension/ chassis require attention ....then you can choose what parts to replace with (and/or effects of upgraded parts

If you were happy with the stock Sport suspension set-up, you may wish to bring it back to Sport OEM (its the least trouble free set-up)

If you wish flatter turn feeling or less body roll, larger sway bars can help you achieve that goal (note- generally suspension upgrades come with a trade-off in another area ie tire wear)

Consider which handling characteristics you'd like to change, it'll then be easier to determine the appropriate suspension upgrades

fyi- a tech mentioned to me that larger tire/wheels wear suspension bushings faster and generally increase stress on steering, braking, and chassis systems too; he suggested considering replacing these items too with more robust ones

good luck
-fad

blackmercedes · #5 04-26-2002, 09:55 PM

I have the AMG "medium" suspension on my 1998 C230, and LOVE it. The ride quality is nearly factory "elegance" settings, and with nice turn in, flat cornering, and no brake dive to boot.

It's nothing short of amazing. Call Eddy at AMG in Vancouver, his number is at www.performances.com. He's one of only a few non-MB dealer AMG distributors anywhere, and is VERY knowledgable concerning AMG products.

Just swapping in the C36 bits might work, but AMG sells a suspension kit designed specifically for your C280, and if it works half as well as the set-up on my C230, you'll be VERY happy.