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  #1  
Old 11-09-2014, 02:50 PM
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Join Date: Sep 2014
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w108 suspension improvements

Hi. I recently replaced subframe mounts and installed Koni adjustables. Car still leans a great deal in turns. Has anyone figured out a stronger front swaybar replacement? The shocks are set on medium but I will change to firm setting to see of that improves anything. Any thoughts/comments as to what has worked for you are much appreciated

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  #2  
Old 11-09-2014, 04:44 PM
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Location: Minneapolis, MN
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In what condition are your swaybar bushings? If they're old, replace them and you'll notice much less body roll in turns.

I've heard firmer springs can lessen the fore/aft sway felt upon heavy braking.

Last edited by JMela; 11-09-2014 at 05:40 PM.
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  #3  
Old 11-10-2014, 07:30 PM
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Here's what I did:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/vintage-mercedes/360025-double-swaybar.html
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1972 280SEL 4.5, silver
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  #4  
Old 11-10-2014, 08:23 PM
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Any idea as to good vendors for uprated or progressive replacement springs? I would also replace the rubber perches with lowest stock size to lower a little
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  #5  
Old 11-13-2014, 07:35 PM
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It appears one of my front springs is weak. I spoke with John from the SL letter but his lead time is over a month. Does anyone know of any sport spring providers here or in Europe? If I have to replace them all I would like to upgrade

Thanks
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  #6  
Old 11-23-2014, 07:31 AM
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Update. Ordered all new rubber components for suspension and new factory springs with the thinnest available rubber perches. Has anyone cut the springs slightly to lower and improve handling? Does this even work in the rear with the hydraulic compensator or does it cause more problems than it's worth? I love the slightly lowered look of the cars on Mercedes motoring but recognize those are the next generation and don't have the swing arm. Thanks
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  #7  
Old 11-26-2014, 02:29 PM
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Search the WEB for H&R W108

suspension h&r cup kit

http://www.larkspeed.com/index.pl?p=69400201&a=i
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  #8  
Old 11-30-2014, 10:02 PM
xaliscomex
 
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Ventura County, CA
Posts: 383
hydropneumatic compensator

Quote:
Originally Posted by Climbernyc View Post
Update. Ordered all new rubber components for suspension and new factory springs with the thinnest available rubber perches. Has anyone cut the springs slightly to lower and improve handling? Does this even work in the rear with the hydraulic compensator or does it cause more problems than it's worth? I love the slightly lowered look of the cars on Mercedes motoring but recognize those are the next generation and don't have the swing arm. Thanks
If you currently have a HYDROPNEUMATIC compensator (BOGE) installed at the rear axle, cutting the rear springs to lower the vehicle will be temporary. The ride height will re adjust after a few bumps on the road and the rear will go back up.


Now if you have the SPRING compensator installed at rear axle, like most, the rear can be lowered by cutting Left and Right spring coils. Rear of car will remain lowered.
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  #9  
Old 11-30-2014, 10:07 PM
xaliscomex
 
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Ventura County, CA
Posts: 383
shock/coil spring combo

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Originally Posted by Adv_rider View Post
Do you know of anyone who is using this setup?
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  #10  
Old 12-01-2014, 02:56 AM
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Location: Savoy, Texas
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The camber of the rear wheels is determined by the height of the springs and the rubber shims. This means that the rear suspension should not be lowered.
The best way to lower the front suspension is the order new ones. I lowered the front end of my 280 se coupe by 1.5 inches.
Coil Spring Specialties

The BBB explains how to properly measure and correct the ride height of both the front and rear ends.
It is important to remember that lower the front end will properly push the suspension beyond the specified factory tolerances of the front end. Which means that the front springs will need to be stiffened to prevent the tire from hitting the top of the wheel well.
When I ordered new springs for the front I increased the stiffness by 20% and shortened them by 1.5 inches.
Coil Spring Specialties were able to manufacture them for a very reasonable price which was substantially less expensive, around $300.
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  #11  
Old 12-01-2014, 10:53 PM
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I went with an all new stock setup with thinner spring perches all around, per thom at the classic center. All being installed this week with the konis being set to firm all around. No cutting or lowering as Xalix's comment about the hydro-pneumatic compensator made sense. Will report back once I have driven....thx again

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