Self Levelling Suspension - Bleed Procedure?
 

Had a problem with hydraulic leaks that dumped the entire system out on the road. After fixing the leak the self leveller does not seem to work like it used to and the rear suspension feels very harsh and different.

There is nothing in my manual about a bleeding procedure for the rear suspension - only for the 4-Matic system. I feel that there could still be a lot of air in the self levelleling system. Maybe I should try to loosen the connection next to each "shock absorber" and allow it to run until no more bubbles? Any ideas? Maybe there is a bleed point somewhere???

The system is self bleeding, Put about 250 lbs in the trunk {2 friends} and run the engine about 2000 rpm`s. The back end should come up. If the ride is still harsh replace the accumilators{air cells}. When they go bad the ride is very harsh.
John

You don't mention the year and model in your post. Your profile shows ref to a 300E 4matic, but your post indicates the vehicle in question is not a 4matic. Try using the search feature...more than likely your question has been answered by someone in the past.

My model is '90 300TE 4-Matic. Before the hydraulic leak which was caused by corroded hydraulic pipes the suspension was perfect. After "fixing" the ride is not the same. That is why I suspect air in system. The 4-Matic ha been bled.

I have a 1991 560SEC. Though supposedly not required, I bled my system to replace the fluid. I did this by turning the car on, and opening the bleed valve back on the leveling valve down by the rear axle. I would stop periodically to refill the reservoir (under the hood) with new fluid. I did this until the fluid coming out of the bleed was clearer.
CAUTION: be careful when you open the bleed valve and don't crush your self. The back end of the car will drop quickly when you open the valve.
I bled this after changing the air cells. My ride was a little harsh, and the read end was bouncing like a car does with bad shocks. The air cells took care of the problem, it rides like a dream now.
John

These might help. You shouldnot need to bleed at the leveling lever.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/76673-self-leveling-rear-suspension-fluid-replacement.html?highlight=air+cells

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/47170-wagon-rear-susp-air-cells.html?highlight=air+cells

Thanks Guys! I now have to replace the rotten pipes under the rear end because a new leak has started *#!**!!! So have to start all over. Anyone done this before? I suppose it is possible to "cut and splice" using the correct fittings. Flexible hoses would be great as there would be no need for bending- as long as they can handle the pressure and the type of fluid??? Still checking on this.