LR extreme tire wear

[troyd]

I have a 93 300 SL that came with factor 16'' wheel. I replaced the factory wheels/tires with a set of used 18 Lorinser Chrome Wheel and a set of new 245/40/ZR18 Tires with 2'' spacers on the rear and 1/2'' spacers on the front. I had to replace the LR tire due to extreme inside wear. I contacted a mercedes dealer to have the alignment checked and they informed me that the factory specs for the alignment won't work with the 18'' wheels and they have no way of knowing what the specs need to be. Standing immediately behind the car and visualizing the rear tires, they appear to "tilt" inwardly. What can I do to ensure that I don't have to continue prematurely replacing tires. I am contemplating replacing the rear spacers with the smaller size and having the alignment done according to specs anyway. Do you think that will help?

[Benzmac]

You have something bent more than likely. You should go to a shop that is used to this type of repair. We have a Butler tire that does this type of thing around here. You can call Renntech or Brabus if needed.

------------------
Benzmac:
1981 280GE SWB
1987 16V
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

[jeffsr]

With the larger wheels, lower height and added spacers, it's no suprise that you end up with negative camber. This may be hard to believe, but the changes you mention have obviously changed the rear suspension geometry, weight distribution across the rear end, etc. Put the factory wheels back on and have the wheel alignment checked (all four wheels at the same time). Get it set up to factory specs, repair anything that's out of alignment or bent. Try you new setup again If you still have negative camber, youmay have to tweak the rear suspension to accomodate the new geometry, ie spring assisted shocks. Remember, the center to center distance between your rear wheels has increase by at least 4 inches plus whatever offset the taller wheels may have. How does it handle with the new setup? BTW, do the tires make contact with the frame, wheel housing or fender either in the front or back when turning?? Look up inside the left rear wheel well and see if you can see any evidence that the tire is making contact with something. Hope this helps...
------------------
Jeff L
1987 300e
1989 300e

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 01-21-2000).]