Which Shock Absorber
 

The old questions

for the 1986 560SL, should I get the Bilstein standard or heavey duty shock absorbers?

Is there a reason to go to a different brand - Konic for example.

Are there and "Leasons Learned" regarding the replacenment of the shocks?

I'm figuring both front and rear.

Thanks for your continued help and suggestions.

Bill,

The choice is more dependent on your ride expectations/requirements than anything else. Bilstein makes excellent shocks and either one would be a fine choice. I prefer a more "connected" ride than some folks so I fit the HDs to my street cars. BTW, these shocks are pretty much a must when installing lower, stiffer springs.

If you are seeking a more comfortable ride that closely approximates the original shocks then the Bilstein Comfort model would most likely be the best option.

HTH,

///MikeR
'93 190E 2.6 Sportline

From what I've read here and elsewhere it seems that the Bilstien Comfort shocks are the way to go and that they are 15% stiffer than the original replacement part....as opposed to Koni.

I'll be replacing the shocks on my 380 within a week with these. I'm also upgading to 560 springs.

HD

I didn't realize I needed to specify beyond Bilstein, so my shop installed the HDs. It's nowhere near the point of trying to negotiate a re-change after a couple thousand miles, but there's definitely more harshness over rough spots, and if I were to do it again I'd go for the Comfort version.

Bilstien Comfort shocks it is
 

Thanks for the feed back

So the Bilstien Comfort shocks will be the ones I use. Just need to get to FastLane and find time on calendar.

Thanks.:)

Too late to appeal for HD?

csnow, how would you describe the difference in ride and in handling? Curious as I've not had a chance to sample both.

Well, I suppose it is all matter of personal preference, but I have had excellent results with HDs in a wide variety of applications over the years. I find MBs of that vintage to be rather 'soft' by modern standards.

HDs are firm, but not harsh (IMHO), and consistently a good match for stock springs, so one does not lose any travel. I tried a similar SL with them once, and thought the ride was nice. Did not do a 'before and after' though.

Best of luck.

The 560 came standard with the HD's. They do offer a comfort shock, you would be going with a 450 setup and still have the stiffer 560 springs. Stay with the HD's IMO.

BD:) :)