Installing springs in w210 (E320)

[Mikey]

I'm looking for some advice on installing new springs in my car. I've changed many springs before, but never a Mercedes.
What type/model spring compressor is recommended? (I'm assuming a Branick won't work). It appears they may be some special type of compressor needed, anyone know the maker, or part no?


Does the shock need to be removed, or is the lower A-arm removed instead on the front?

Same process with the rear? Does the shock need to be removed?

Thanks.

[Ashman]

Well from my understanding is you undo the control arm and get the springs out that way. the shocks do not need to be removed I believe.

Do a search on Sping Installation and see what you come up with.

I tried a spring compressor on my car, and it could not compress the spring enough to get it out. I just left it up to my mechanic, who is only charging me $160 to install all 4 springs.

Alon

[Mikey]

I've searched back a ways, and every reference to installing springs seems to bring up the same message "Use a springs compressor or you'll get hurt!". Well duh.

I was afraid I'd need to remove that lower control bushing, as I've seen pictures of earlier model <96 E class installations that did remove the lower arm. Is this the only way though? It makes sense that with the right compressor you should be able to simply pull the spring out without removing anything. Is there such a tool somewhere?

Mike,

There are spring compressors that you can use. Use a spring compressor specified for coil-over-strut style springs (even though your mercedes isnt quite that way). You will have a hard time if you try to use a compressor designed for springs that have a conventional shock absorber in the center of them (compressor goes through center hole when shock is removed)

Jason M.

[Ashman]

I found th elink to the thread for the quick install. It applied to a w124, but it should not be too different from the w210 spring install.

H&R Spring Install Procedure (Quick and Cheap!)

Alon

[Mikey]

Thanks Alon, I saw that thread actually, I just wasn't sure how similar the two cars were, so I thought I'd get specific. I imagine though that throwing a spring compressor in there also would help to relieve some of the pressure when you're removing the bushings, and lowering the control arm.


Thanks again.