What Kind of Spring Compressor for Rear Shocks?

[sunedog]

I'm still working on replacing my rear shocks on my 99 ML 320. The current task is to remove the coil springs from the shocks and install them on Bilstein BE-2985's that I got from Phil.

I rented coil spring compressors form a local auto parts store that look exactly like this:


I can't get the substantial steel hooks into the gaps between the huge coils of the ML's springs. I know Mercedes has a special coil spring compressor. Do I have to get my hands on the Mercedes version to do this job or is there some way to do it using this type of spring compressor?

I see the special Mercedes spring compressor may be available in this forum's tool rental program. I think it is this model:



I'll go that route if I have to, but time is of the essence. The ML has out of service for almost a week waiting for me to finish this job.

[Ron in SC]

The compressor in your second photo will not work on an ML. I have one and I use it on 124 chassis cars. The one you need is in photo below. It can be purchased on ebay. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/MacPherson-Strut-Spring-Compressor-Auto-Repair-Tools_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ35625QQitemZ4626820534

The compressor for the ML is not available under the tool rental program. If you buy one I’m sure you would have no trouble renting it.

[sunedog]

Thank you, Ron. I really appreciate the link you provided. That would certainly do the job. But I would prefer to avoid having to wait for delivery of the tool and the expense if possible.

I'd still like to find out if anyone has been able to do the spring swap using the type of compressor I have in my hands. Seems like several people in one of the shock threads changed their own springs. I'd love to hear from one of them.

I actually rented two complete sets of the type of spring compressor in my first picture. The threaded rod on these guys is 12" long. My latest thought is to combine two 12" threaded rods with a pipe coupling to make a 24" version of the same design. Then perhaps I could attach the hooks at the very ends of the spring instead of in the middle.

[mbdoc]

Since MB doesn't sell rear springs OR shocks(W163 chassis) by themselves they don't offer a spring compressor for that application!

A good MacPherson strut spring compressor like Ron pictured will work.....as with ALL work involving springs SAFETY is the number 1 objective!!

[sunedog]

M.B.DOC -- No argument there. SAFETY is my first interest. I won't take risks on this job.

Last night I made a trial attempt with the spring compressors I rented. I can get the hooks in the coils of an unloaded spring. I compressed the spring about three inches and stopped. I would need to go another inch or two to finish the job. I don't think I could get the hooks out of the springs if I was able to get the shock inserted and secured. Today's plan is to take the parts to a different local mechanic who has the proper equipment to do this swap.

Speaking of safety, here's a shot of my "red neck jackstands"



Only $12.50 at Lowes. I have real jackstands, but they seem kind of flimsy when I fully extend them. So I picked up eight 4" thick X 16" long solid blocks to put under the truck. As you can see, I placed them under the rear jacking point. I was still concerned about the point load of the frame possibly fracturing the blocks so I added a scrap of 2 X 6 lumber to the top of the stack. I shook the vehicle very firmly after resting it on these and it is very secure. I put the wheels under the truck for another level of redundancey (plus it keeps them out of the way).

[Ron in SC]

Today's plan is to take the parts to a different local mechanic who has the proper equipment to do this swap.

I'd be interested to know the brand and model of compressor used to compress those springs. Some of the local shops here did not think their wall mounted units would work.

I saved my old springs so I can eventually install Bilsteins in the rear. I just went with the new stock units because at the time I needed them I got a pair for about $100.

Also I would support the lower wishbone, I don't think it's a good idea to have it hanging like that.

And finally I've heard you should never use cinder blocks to support a vehicle. The ones you have are probably solid and the ones people used to use were hollow. Maybe the solid ones are ok.