Never heard of it done, ever. Airmatic systems aren't exactly a picnic either, but look great in comparison to ABC. Where the aftermarket is starting to come into play as these cars age is traditional suspension swap kits. Regular old struts, disabling the pump, and tricking the computer to thinking everything is hunky dory. There are kits out for airmatic cars but not ABC as far as I know. I think that ABC cars do not have/need sway bars since the system itself keeps the car stable, so it would be a really involved deal to kill them off, likely costing more than any 2001-2006 S600 is worth at this point.

Thats the problem about ABC and converting it to regular springs and struts. The ABC is tied into other things in the car as well.

Small update in my new blog.... where I'll post updates.

Hoovie's Garage

Well I hope you keep this thread alive too

I always liked those particular rims on the w221...

Just came across this thread, wowza! How do you like the CLK55? I DD a W210 E55, but want to replace it with a newer DD...

I have been looking for a w211 E55, but the ABC/brake by wire stuff turns me off. W211 E63, or E550? A black '07 E550 is local to me for $11k and frankly is nice. PPI checked out well. But did these have ABC? I'm still looking for a reason to hold out for the later 55/ early 63 provided it doesn't have the head bolt issues. Don't like W212's.

SBC is the brake by wire, and MB discontinued it at the end of 06 with the facelift.

The CLK55 is amazing. I took alot of great photos and will post on my blog soon a little about it. 2007 ends the SBC brakes, but welcomes engine balance shaft faliures with the E550 and E350 (much more expensive fix than SBC) The electronic brakes is turning out to be a $1500-$2000 one and done kind of deal. Wouldn't let it stop you from buying one. I would be interested in a C63 if I was in the market for one.


As for the S600, found a great deal on a motor totally complete with all accessories and harnesses, sensors, coils for a great price. At some point I'll document the horror done to this car by a second rate mechanic to "investigate" the health of the overheated motor currently in the car.

The motor out of the car is a very impressive sight.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXRaboSo70A

I second Tyler's advice here. The w211 E55 has a rock solid driveline, unmodified engines and transmissions don't give any problems. The downside is of course that w211 E55 cars are getting old and it's starting to become difficult to find one with reasonable miles, good maintenance history, and not hacked up with questionable aftermarket modifications, wheels, etc. In contrast, the E550 has idler shaft problems. This is a $5k repair. If it's been done, great - but you don't want the car if not. You know about the m156 head bolt issues, so that's good. I don't think the 6.3 cars are worth considering, given that the engine may fail and require $15k to repair. Again the exception is one that has already been upgraded to new head bolts, or better yet ARP studs. I have taken them off my list and will go straight to an m157 w212 if I decide to get another AMG car.

All these cars have airmatic suspension, so you'll have to deal with that. None of them have the ABC suspension, thankfully.

Sorry about the threadjack Tyler. If you want to discuss more, suggest you start a new thread on the topic. There is more activity discussing these cars over at mbworld as well. Back to twin turbo V12s....

IDK, I've seen several of them with the rear subframe bolts pulled through the body. Kind of **** show to repair when it happens. Definitely a must check if you're considering buying one.

How's the V12 coming?

q+
+üpa

Ya - we need updates, pictures and your bank statement:cool:

I got a complete engine with all accessories out of an 80,000 mile 2007 CL600 for $4500. This will make the swap as easy as possible.

I'm expecting it to actually happen very soon. Had a few big projects with my friend who was helping me with this in line in front of me.

Are there any preventative/maintenance tasks that would be less difficult to perform on this engine before it is installed? Seal/gasket replacement? Timing chains/guides?