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.