After living with a rough, loose-handling suspension for three years, I am taking my 87 420SEL (233k miles) in for a complete suspension overhaul to corect four chronic problems:

1. front end vibration at 70+ mph
2. rough ride
3. excess play in the steering
4. a "loose" feeling while cornering (wife calls it "Das Boat")

I already have new tires and had the steering damper replaced. Judging from replies to other postings, potential problems are shocks, various bushings (front/rear plus steering column), idler arm, etc. Before I take the big dollar plunge, does anyone have any silver bullets of wisdom?

I recently drove a 1990 SEL with only 32k; now I know EXACTLY what it is supposed to feel like (as I'm sure it did when new).

JoeB

JoeB,

Did you get your suspension work done? What exactly needed to be done?

Thanks

yes, had all four shocks replaced, plus tires rotated and balanced...and had previsously had steering shock replaced -so it is better now. Had two of the techs drive it and tell me that it was as good as it's going to get for a 126 with 234,000 miles. Since I had recently had a valve job, new catalytic converter and new a/c parts (pushbutton unit/aux water pump), I plan to drive it to 300K minimum. Only one cocern - original owner let it go 10-12k between oil changes, and I have read that W126 V-8s are susceptible to camshaft wear. It still has lots of power, but if I ever have engive rebuilt, will likely put in new camshafts. Have seen them advertised for around $500 each, but not sure if those are M/B parts or aftermarket.

By the way, there is a wide discrepancy out there in cost for Bilstein shocks for W126.

JoeB