weekend wrenching 92 300D w124 front end

[DieselJim]

Well this weekend started front end rebuild. Didn't complete it because had a few unexpected events and dodging thunderstorms.

Didn't use spring compressor to remove coil springs.
Method used.

1. Unfasten strut at top bolt.
2. Jack up front end until wheel is off the ground
3. Torqued off lugs.
4. Removed Caliper assembly and speed sensor.
5. Removed hub and shield
6. Take wheel carrier off ball joint
7. placed floor jack under ball joint.
8. Unfastened torsion bar at control arm and at frame.
9. Let Jack drop slowly.
10. If that doesn't drop the control arm far enough to free spring loosen camber bolts.

I did the reverse to put it back together. Refreshed the bearing assembly. I did use the cheap harbor freight to compress the spring just enough to get a nice size block under the control arm to lower it down on.

Driver side rebuilt - bushings were shot.

Passenger side is apart and at reassembly stage. I think 3-4 hours should get this.

One of the driver's side camber bolts has the eccentric washer turned . I ended up driving out the bolt thinking I had an extra. Oops. Found an m14 1.5 pitch nut at a hardware store and cleaned the threads up a bit using that nut as a sacrificial die. That is a big bolt and I think there is plenty of thread left. I would probably be really close to done if not for rain and that bolt.

I can tell you I don't think I'll be doing this job again without some younger help and preferably a shop lift. Tools I bought for my engine job really came in handy on this job 1/2 breaker bar. 3/4 inch metric socket set.