Does the rear suspension of an '86 300SDL utilize the self leveling feature I've been reading about in other models? The rear ride height of my car appears to be low by about 2 or 3 inches. The car does not appear completely level and the rear tires appear to have too much negative (?) camber. If there is a self leveling feature on this suspension, where and how is the adjustment made? Thank you.

Jden
86 Mercedes 300 SDL don't have self leveling feature.
I will check the aligment & spring first.

------------------
MB STARS Master Guild Technician,12 years MB tech
5 years independent shop owner

Did the '87? My understanding was that it did not however, when we put the car in gear, we notice that the back-end raises up.

The 300SDL doesn't have the self levelling rear suspension. When you put the car in gear it feels as if it goes up and down because the differential is attached to the body. Since you have your foot on the brake when you shift from park to reverse or drive, the power from the engine at the differential can't turn the wheel so it tries to turn the differential instead.

From what I am hearing, then, the reason for the car to be "squatting down" at the rear is because the rear springs have become weak. Is this correct?

Wasn't a self-leveling suspension an option on the W126's (excluding the 560 which had it as standard equipment)?

Mine doesn't have it, but seems I recall a neighbor who had a 1987 420SEL with the self leveling suspension he paid $1000 or more for back in 1987.

JDEN, if the rear springs have become weak and are to be replaced, you may want to try a good set of OE heavy duty shocks as well. Ps our partshop sells them both and can ship to your door.

------------------
Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM