Has anyone replaced the rear shocks on an 1998ml. just replaced the front, the top shock nut was rusted and had to be cut off to get the shock out. They used ot put covers on the shocks (years ago ) so the nut would not rust. I have 155,000 and the rear need to be replaced. How should I proceed, buy the whole unit together or just buy the shock? How is it to install, do you need any special tools ( spring compressor), Is the top nut hard to get off ? Any advise would be helpful ? I used Bilstein on the front.

Much easier if you purchase the complete assembly.

Still somewhat a pain compared to the fronts.

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Buy the whole unit, its the only way to do it. You need an offset 13mm wrench to get the top bolts tight other than that is was fairly easy. I also ended up replacing the sway bar links & bushings at the same time. I bought them from Phil, he had some left (2 years ago). Both springs were broken on mine.

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John
2001 ML 320
1988 560 SL
2009 Toyota Tundra TRD
1992 400 E (sold '07) (bought back, '13)
2008 ML 350

Lots of good info in this thread:

ML320 Shock replacement installation help needed

Putting an old coil spring on a new shock is not trivial. Read about my experience starting on page 6 of the linked thread.

Taking the upper nuts off is tedious but not difficult. Remove the inner fenders and sit on a 5 gallon bucket and take your time.

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