Front Torsion / Sway Bar Anxiety !

[David Speed]

1978 280CE w123
Front end 'clunks' -really more like a 'pop' on turning to a new direction, some bumps....especially when turning....... and first reversing after driving forward

Provisional diagnosis: Torsion/Sway bar bushings

I'm about to jump in and tackle this replacement -25yr old bushes have to be gone even if it doesnt fix my 'pop'
I've read most of the posts......the main decision seems to be with regard to the brake booster R & R.......this will be a first for me hence the anxiety!!
I have some paint damage to the booster from a previous brake fluid leak (appears dry now) so I am thinking I'll bite the bullet and pull the booster for a repaint and make access easier

I would like to check the booster/master cylinder while it's out.......what is the most likely source of the old leak (present for 10yrs +....minimal in past..... and appears dry now) down the booster ?........is it an easy fix or does the master cylinder need overhauling? (no previous repair)

I woud be grateful for any other advice with regard to the replacement of the bushes

I will try and get some digital photos to post that may help others

David

[wbain5280]

On a car that old, you'll probably find that if you fix one thing another weaker part will go bad and on down the line. So, plan on a complete front suspension overhaul.

Fix your sway bar bushings but be aware that the others will also need to be replaced. Plan ahead.

As for the brake booster, the inner seal could be bad. there may be brake fluid inside the booster, since it's under vacuum. The O-ring(s) under the reservoir might also be bad.

When you replace brake pads, open the bleed screw on the caliper and then depress the pads.

[JoeyTheB]

Your symptoms sound like the author of the subframe mounts DIY.
Click on the DIY section/subframe mounts at top of page.

In his case, the steering stablizer broke/snapped in two,
and his tech said that was a sign the subframe mounts were bad.
Bear in mind that piece is a "hollow tube" - I just got a new one for mine, and it's pretty flimsy.

Best of luck...

[David Speed]

Thanks for the responses..............my w123 doesn't appear to have what I would call a front subframe.........but I'm happy to be corrected if wrong

I have no steering problems........just 'pops' with changes in direction which I imagine changes the loading on the sway bar

I plan to replace the upper control arm bushings while I'm there..........pic below of UCA.........inner bushings look in need of replacement

Still keen to get some advice on master cylinder/booster removal and any further thoughts on the likely cause of minor leak down front of booster