Evening all, I am about to tackle the job of renewing my front end suspension/steering. I'm 250k miles and 18'ish years on original rubber.
My biggest concern is with removing the springs/control arms. (I'm, having flashbacks of trying to replace the coil springs then having to give up and take it to a buddy with a shop.)
Can I put the car on a lift to ease tension in the springs, pull the sway bar, then remove the nut on the top of the strut, and then let the control arms swing free? When I tried to self install my H&R's I tried spring compressors borrowed from the local car parts shops but none would fit the springs well enough to leave me feeling anything close to safe enough to continue.
My goal to replace: coil spring isolators, sway bar bushings, strut mounts, control arms, and tie rods/center link. The struts are three years old or so, Bilstein Sports... pretty fun, but of course not the most comfy ride ever.
Any other pro-tips that I would be better knowing for this job? Thanks

you have to have the correct compressor for the job. here's what it is-

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/mercedes-used-parts-sale-wanted/261567-klann-spring-compressor-kl-0025-1k.html

this is only a picture reference, not an attempt to sell this for the guy. good luck, chuck.

I ran across that particular Klann style of machine last night when trying to research the process. While I would love to have such a tool in my repertoire, I can't exactly afford one as a college student, ha. Thus my question, if there is an alternate means of disassembling the front suspension, perhaps the one downside to not having a MacPherson setup.
Thanks you for the input!

If you have a lift and can firmly support the inner part of the lower control arm I don't see why you should not be able disconnect the lower control arm fasteners then raise the car. I'd drop a secure chain through the spring to prevent it from going anywhere.

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Jim

I can picture what you are saying, but that just seems a little dubious to me. I'm not sure how exactly my friend went about removing the springs, If nothing else I may just have to coordinate with him again.
Are there any other big items I should consider replacing while I have the springs out, and/or am underneath the front end?
Is it worth the money to replace the steering damper for example?

you should be able to rent one from any of the members that have theirs listed for rent on the forum

I have begun to look into this, the idea is appreciated.