Hi,

My 560 SL is badly in need of some new shocks. I was thinking of heavy duty since me, my partner and the dog just about puts the car at it's maximum carrying load (only 480 lbs., less than my BMW motorcycle).

My mechanic suggest Bilstein, which I can get for about $75-80 per shock front and back.

1) Should I consider another brand?

2) Is this a DIY project? I don't have a lift, just a floor jack.

Thanks,

Steve

1) Consider what you will but choose Bilstein and you'll be fine.

2) Yes. A floor jack and some hand tools are all you need.

Make sure you want the stiffer ride of Bilstein HDs. I find the new Bilstein comforts I put in my 300SE and 300SDL to be on the stiff side so I'm glad I didn't get HDs.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

Seconding Sixto--go for the Comforts to avoid undue harshness.

__________________
Craig Bethune

'97 SL500, 40th anniversary edition

'04 Olds Bravada (SWMBO's)
'06 Lexus ES330
'89 560SL (sold)


SL--Anything else is just a Mercedes.
(Kudos to whoever said it first)

Thanks,

I will try the comfort shocks.

I wish the Service Manual (CD) would show the R&R procedures.

Steve