During a routine service my dealership informed me that I need to replace the front shocks, idler arm bushings and upper control arms on my 86 300SDL w/340k miles. I easily replaced the shocks myself about 150k miles ago, so I'm thinking of replacing them again along with the other suggested parts myself (I've asked the PartShop for a price quote on the parts). It looks easy enough. Do you forsee any special tools/problems I might encounter? Best I can estimate, doing it myself should bring the job down from $900++ to around $500+. Thanks for a great site.

Your alignment will be slightly altered. I would have it aligned ASAP after the repairs. Also, there is a trick way to install the idler arm bushings on this car.

You take off the nut and push the bolt up a little and pull out the bottom bushing. Then you push out the top bushing and pull out the bolt and all. When you reassemble you do the same and squeeze it back together with a big pair of pliers. Then reinstall the nut and torque. (I am giving you the secrets! Shhhhhh)

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope :)
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
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