W126 going with H&R springs, what shocks?
 

Well I think I've decided on H&R's over the Eibachs for my 1990 560SEL. My question, however, is about the shocks. Can I use my stock ones? I read previous posts that say that the ride is terrible with the original shocks. I didn't know if the vehicle they were referring to was a 126 chassis or not, and if it was did it have self leveling shocks, or just conventional ones. If I have to change shocks do I just eliminate the self leveling aspect of my suspension? Is there special shocks available for my application? Thanks in advance for your help.

Regards from Colorado,
Dave
jmhenneman@frontier.net

I can only relate the experience with installing H&R lowering springs on my W124 E500....

Rear stock hydropneumatic shocks were retained and the SLS was recalibrated for lower ride height.

Front shocks were replaced with Bilstein Sports, which have physically shorter rods to match lower springs.

koni reds
 

I too, just purchased a set of H&Rs for my126 although they have yet to be installed. I did switch out to koni reds as they are adjustable. They're not cheap but have an excellent reputation for quality and performance.

When I installed my H&R's I got standard oem Bilstein shocks installed on the front at the same time and left the SLS on the rear.

There are only two Bilstein shocks for the W126, standard or comfort and HD. There are two Konis also, the yellow and the red.

Depending on who you talk to you will get answers but I am happy with my stock shock performance.

I also have #1 pads in the front and the original pads in the rear, not sure what they are.

I have just fitted a camber kit to the rear so I can now adjust the SLS lower without having to worry about negative camber. I have 1 degree negative in the front which is just enough to feather the inside edges and require rotating every 12 months to prevent excessive wear on the inside edge ending tire life.

Matt