I recently purchased a '95 E320 wagon with 59,000 miles on it. Runs like a champ but:

1) I think the rear end is sagging. Still a good 2" between the top of the wheel and the wheel well lip. Have not found any info regarding the OEM specs for this.
2) The car is on its second set of tires. The two rear tires needed to be replaced while the fronts are fine. I think this is due to the the suspension issues which have generated excess wear?
3) From what I've read here, the rear subframe mounts probably need to be changed. Do I have to do all three or is the differential mount more problematic and replacing this alone likely to solve my problem?
4) What does the above operation require in man hours and parts (I'll take the man hours and multiply it by the rate at the shop I take the car to in order to get a good estimate).
5) The ride is typical Mercedes except when I go over bumps. Then it gets very harsh. I think this is just inherent with wagons. But will changing the differential/subframe mounts make a big difference?
6) *BONUS* question. The car came shod with "Embassy" brand tires. Are they any good? Never heard of them. When I changed out the rear tires to Michelin, the ride improved dramatically. If Embassy is an off-brand, I'll chuck the fronts and replace with Michelins. Also, is it difficult to mount the balancing weights on the inside of the rim rather than the outside? (Would like to know before the tire guys laugh at me).

Thank you in advance for your assistance!

Quick thoughts:

"Embassy" tires? Switch to well known brands. A good set of Touring tires from Michelin or Pirelli should improve your concern about the ride quality. Also, try to use the same brand and size in all four corners.

I would say that the rear end is not sagging with still 2". Although, the official M.B. can provide you with the recommend tolerances.

Check your front shock absorbers, they must be due for replacement.

I have own M.B. wagons for 18 years and they all tend to wear the rear tires on the inside. Solution: rotate tires every 5,000 miles and be sure to set tires pressures according to the owner's manual (or the sticker inside the fuel flap). Wagons use much higer pressures on the rear tires, this helps to prevent the wear someone.

A. Rosich
S320, 1998
E320T, 1995

Thanks for the info. I will change the fronts to michelins as you suggested.

Wagons do have a stiffer ride than sedans. Remember they have a hydraulic leveling system. If yours does sag, you should have this system checked. Ed

I strongly disagree with the idea of replacing the subframe mounts. They simply don't die that quickly.

I also think you should chuck the "embassy" tires...never heard of them, and a blown tire can be the worst sort of nightmare.

And rotate those tires! I got over 40k out of a set of Z-rated performance rubber, and I simply rotated on schedule and kept an eye on pressures.

__________________
"If God had meant for us to walk, why did he give us feet that fit car pedals?" Sir Sterling Moss

Michael
2014 E63S Estate
2006 SLK55
1995 E500
1986 Porsche 944 turbo

Thanks again for everyone's input. Since the rear end isn't sagging that much, I'll just let it be for now. Experience and advice re: the subframe mounts is especially appreciated.

Thanks for all the help and emails. I traded my 1995 E320 wagon for a 1998 E320 4matic wagon (Starmark warranty through 100k miles) in primo condition! Coldn't be happier!