update '96 560 with sagging rear end, I'm really in trouble now.

[lesaroka]

Filled hydraulic reservoir. Large puddle near each rear wheel.
Is this a repair or a replace situation?
Thanks for any help.
Down & out in IOWA!!

[MikeTangas]

OK, take deep breath.

First you are gonna have to run the back end up on a set of ramps. You have to see where the leak is. It could be the accumulators have ruptured, it could be the struts leaking ($$$$) or it could be something as simple as rusted hydraulic lines. Figure out where the leak is and go from there.

Since you are in Iowa, where they probably salt the roads, I'm betting the hydraulic lines or the fittings have rusted out. My 560 has spent about 1/2 of a winter in Michigan, I just changed the fuel filter today and was surprised at the amount or surface rust on the formerly pristine fittings.

The lines are probably the least expensive item, the accumulators will set you back about $200 for the pair and the struts are on the order of $500 ea. Get a good look, clean the area and tell us where the leak is.

[jeffmg1]

Most likely hoses. $ 40.00 each. Shocks are only $300.00 each.

[MikeTangas]

One other note that I thought of while driving to Little Rock today...do not drive the car until you fix the leaks. If you keep running the engine with an empty hydraulic bottle you will burn up the hydraulic pump which is kinda spendy too. The fact it pumped out the fluid is a sign the pump is still OK.