I need pads for my 89190E (probably the thinnest ones but not sure). Just did the Eibach/Bilsten switch and (doah) neglected to check the height of the oem ones in my 190. My car's front end is now higher than the rear.....somebody on an earlier post said to make sure you talk to a dealer who knows what they're talking about. Well, so far I've struck out. Can someone point me at a dealer/parts house who knows the different sizes and pricing? Should I go to a thin pad for the front? Thanks

Dave Browning
89 190 E 2.6

PS- On the Sportline suspension set up...were the rear tires set up for a negative camber? If so, what about tire mileage?

Dave:

Did you do the installation yourself? How much higher is the front vs. rear? I'm thinking of the same setup for my 1986 2.3-16V (Eibach/Bilstein). On an earlier post, I mentioned I had a 3-bump (stock) pad on the front. I believe that the pads come in 1 to 4 bump sizes, with each bump = 8mm thick (5/16" thk). Also, did you get an alignment done on your car yet? Could it be brought into stock specs?

Brian

Brian...Yes I did the install...er uh mostly by myself (thank God for Beck's Beer). Save some money on labor but it took me three days. Let's just say that I don't have access to some of the trick MB tools that would have made the job much easier/faster. I had to replace my oxygen sensor yesterday so had the car up on the lift and, as I had earlier suspected I did indeed have the "4 bump pads" up there (they probably used those with the heavier 6 cylinder motor..that's my theory anyway). So that explains why the fromt end is higher than the rear. I ordered the thinnest and the next one down in thickness (on the safe side..). I'll pull the springs next week and install the pad that seems to get the ride height to match the rear. Your other question about the camber thing...I haven't done anything yet until I get the ride height "correct" then I'll go in to my alignment "garu" so he can re-position the rear camber links (I mentioned this in an earlier post). He says that it will run about $250. Innovative Motorsport Design (Delsing in the 190E Revolution...click on links) makes adjustable camber struts for about $295. With the new lower springs my car now has the "negative camber" effect which, if not corrected will result in inner tire wear (rears). I'll keep you posted on my progress


Dave Browning
89 190 E 2.6