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  #1  
Old 09-11-2016, 05:59 PM
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Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Devon UK
Posts: 57
lowering my air suspension

Hi guys.
I've recently bought a 300 SEL, with air suspension.
from what I've read, lots of people see the air ride as a expensive liability.
But if I'm going to tolerate this, I'd like to use it to give me what I like.
And I like a smooth comfy ride whilst driving, but a low, in the weeds, stance when parked.
First to say, my suspension seems to be working perfectly and has had new bags and valves in the last 15 years.

I've given it 5 minutes thought, and I reckon you've just got to tap a valve into either the input or exhaust pipes, 3 pipes in total?
Brought to a convenient location, next to drivers seat maybe and then vented back under car.

Like to hear peoples thoughts on this, pros/cons, best set up, anyone done it?
Thanks K.

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  #2  
Old 09-15-2016, 11:34 AM
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Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Middle Haddam, CT
Posts: 315
I don't think its a good idea to be introducing new ambient air into your suspension system every time you start your car up from rest. New air brings with it new moisture, and although the system has a "moisture control" feature via the alcohol reservoir and moisture storage-release air tank under the left front fender, it is not designed to deal with a constant infusion of new air and the moisture that usually comes with it. And excess moisture is not good for the precision suspension control valves or the steel tubes that feed those valves.
__________________
Berfinroy in CT
Present vehicles:
1973 300 SEL 4.5
1959 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud I
1959 Ford Thunderbird convertible/430
Past vehicles;
1958 Bentley S 1
1976 ex-Max Hoffman 6.9
1970 300SEL 2.8
1958 Jaguar MK IX
1961 Jaguar MK IX
1963 Jaguar E-type factory special roadster
1948 Plymouth woody
1955 Morgan plus 4
1966 Shelby GT350H Mustang
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  #3  
Old 09-15-2016, 02:48 PM
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Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Devon UK
Posts: 57
That is a consideration I hadn't thought of.
Having thought it over and taken advice, I may now just lower the suspension an inch, to give abit better (imo) stance.
Thankyou for your thoughts.
Just a question could you tell me where the alcohol reserve is and what type/name alcohol does it take?
Thanks in advance.
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  #4  
Old 09-15-2016, 05:54 PM
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Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 7,534
Sounds like an older air dryer from an air brake equipped truck, probably can use the same fluid. I haven't dealt directly with this style as modern ones use a desiccant canister that is regenerated after each pump up cycle.
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  #5  
Old 09-16-2016, 09:22 AM
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Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Middle Haddam, CT
Posts: 315
The alcohol reservoir is located on the left front inner fender just ahead of the main air suspension control valve. It has a Plastic twist off cap and an opaque plastic reservoir underneath.
Yes, truck air break alcohol available at any auto parts stor will work. Any 100% alcohol will work, but never ordinary rubbing alcohol, which is only 70% alcohol.

__________________
Berfinroy in CT
Present vehicles:
1973 300 SEL 4.5
1959 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud I
1959 Ford Thunderbird convertible/430
Past vehicles;
1958 Bentley S 1
1976 ex-Max Hoffman 6.9
1970 300SEL 2.8
1958 Jaguar MK IX
1961 Jaguar MK IX
1963 Jaguar E-type factory special roadster
1948 Plymouth woody
1955 Morgan plus 4
1966 Shelby GT350H Mustang
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