Does anyone know if the springs need to be compressed before attempting this job? I've looked at several procedures that people go over online; including in the technical repair manual on alldatadiy.com and nothing indicates that the front suspension springs have to be compressed. The reason I ask is because on the 4matic models, the spring and shock absorber are together in one unit which is unlike the standard rear wheel drive only cars where the spring and shock absorber are separate.
Procedure says to detach shock absorber from lower wishbone....is there something else preventing the suspension from extending when this is removed??