Should shocks always be replaced in pairs? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

chazola · #1 05-30-2006, 03:55 PM

noticed the rear shocks on my 'new' 116 are different makes. One is proper oem, and the other is a cheaper replacement (KYB). Both are ok, though the cheaper one seems to bounce 'softer' if that makes sense.

meltedpanda · #2 05-30-2006, 04:04 PM

it certainly would be logical, and the way I would do it, but .....

shandy · #3 05-30-2006, 04:29 PM

In a word,YES.

#4 05-30-2006, 06:01 PM

Picture it like this...if you have a long neck beer and a can of beer, we all know that one is TALLER than the other one...
Replace them both with the same brand, do not let yourself be lopsided like I was....

t walgamuth · #5 05-30-2006, 07:42 PM

did you mean it is the actual shock that came from the factory or is it just a bilstein.

if it is worn out replace it. but if it is not you could simply repace with a bilstein the kyb.

tom w

sbourg · #6 05-31-2006, 11:12 AM

If you have to ask, then I would guess cost is a significant consideration for you. Bottom line, if ride height is even all around, and handling seems safe enough, then not replacing either will possibly be a better solution than just replacing one. If the car's behavior leaves you concerned, then replace both, since you don't know the age of either.

Steve

nhdoc · #7 05-31-2006, 11:31 AM

Nice looking car!

The answer is YES, they should have both been replaced with a new pair. The question is now, what to do about it?

The only right thing to do is to now replace both old shocks with a new pair. Replacing one to simply match the brand and model to the other makes no sense since you will then have one old shock and one new one of the same make and model which, IMHO is no better than what you now have since once it is used the shock will have different characteristics than when new. So, either replace both with a fresh pair or just forget about it and drive.

Obviously, if it is going to gnaw at you as it would gnaw at me just install a brand new pair and know you've done your best to optimize the handling.

t walgamuth · #8 05-31-2006, 07:01 PM

or the odd shock could have been damaged and the remaining bilstein is low mileage.

i still say if it feels fine, i wouldnt hesitate to use it. if after replacing the odd one it feels imbalanced i would change it.

if money is not a big issue, then change it.

tom w

meltedpanda · #9 06-01-2006, 11:06 AM

[QUOTE

if money is not a big issue, then change it.

tom w[/QUOTE]

Ummm, with an old Benz project, how could it not be

BobK · #10 06-01-2006, 01:02 PM

Whatever you do, think Bilstein. PO of wife's 560SL had put some other brand on the car. They were-well, I just got tired of the rear end jumping all over the place. Four new shocks were not cheap, (but my labor is-just Cola), but the difference is wonderful.

t walgamuth · #11 06-01-2006, 10:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by meltedpanda

Ummm, with an old Benz project, how could it not be

exactly

tom w