W126 560SEL New to Me - 2 issues
 

All -

I perused the archives and couldn't find either of these issues specifically as related to my 560SEL:

1 - Rear Suspension - Seems to ride at correct height and not bouncy, but sags/squats on hard acceleration..? The accumultors are new.... Not sure what this could be, or if it's normal? Doesn't seem like it. Fluid is there although below the reservoir retaining spring.

2 - ABS Light - On every time the car is started UNLESS you hold the brake and immediately shift into gear after starting, which produces a shuddering noise/feeling and the light goes off..... Weird.

Any advice on either of these is appreciated.

Thanks!!

-Reed

For the ABS you probably have a dirty speed sensor or a problem with one of them at the wheels....clean/inspect each one. It might be skipping the self test and just putting the light on, but holding the pedal like you said might be tricking it into a successful self test. (The self test is supposed to happen and is normal to shudder slightly)

Not sure on the suspension thing, but the self leveling does take a moment to compensate I believe, so it may still squat a bit on heavy acceleration....might be normal. Fluid level must be kept proper and checked. Don't let it run dry/low! :eek: And ONLY USE MB SELF LEVELING FLUID from the dealer! I'd check/top it off ASAP. Make sure there are no leaks in the system.

I have never had a Mercedes with air suspension, but every Mercedes I have ever owned (two W126's and a 190D), all "squated" on acceleration... my 300SEL is like that now, but it levels out. I see most like this. Seems normal to me. Watch "Dallas" (1978-1991) - the "new Mercedes" on there do the same thing (at least the 380SL, 280SE, 380SEL did). Perhaps its normal?

I believe the mercs squat on acceleration for maximum traction, or so I've read.

The ABS light could easily be a sensor as previously mentioned, but could also be a symptom of a shot OVP relay or blown OVP fuse.

Wouldn't hurt to check......

Pretty much all cars squat somewhat on acceleration, that's simply a law/effect of physics. My 300SD squats quite a bit if I floor it, especially now with my oodles of torque 2600rpm torque converter! :eek: It will chatter and squeal the rear wheels around a corner if I am flooring it! :D :eek: