I ordered a set of monroe reflex shocks for the ml320. However, the original shock has a ball on one side of the lower mount that fits into a cup on the lower member where the shock connects, opposite the side where the bolt head is. Is there an aftermarket shock with the correct fit to the cup in the suspension member, or is this piece a separate bushing that inserts into the lower ring shaped bolt hole? Any info is greatly appreciated.

THE OE front shocks list 2 different numbers, one for 1998-99 & the other number for 2000+ later..

What year....OE shocks are made by Arvin-Mentor

Bilstiens are available for the front on the 1998-99 trucks...their number is BE-6456-HO

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Sorry. My truck is model year 2000. Are the oem shocks available from anyone other than dealer? Are bilstein shocks preferable, in youe experience? Thanks.

I have just installed Bilstein shocks on the front of my ML430 (99100 miles). It very much improved the ride in my opinion. It handles the seams in the asphalt roads much better. The ride feels more firm but yet much smoother and comfortable. We test drove it down a very bumpy dirt road that we know and my wife made the comment that they must have fixed the road. Nope, same road, same bumps. Good enough for me

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99 ML430