Hi--

I have a 1981 380SL with about 31,000 original miles on it. The rear end sags. About three years ago, I installed some of those steel knuckles into the rear spring coils, and it seemed to help. Now, it looks like it is sagging again.


I have read that the 380SL has poor rear springs that eventually sag and replacing them is the only thing that will fix them.

I have also read that Mercedes springs never need to be replaced.

I have also read that the rear sag is really just a front end lift due to gas charged shocks on the front (stock shocks).

I have also read that all that is required is to replace the rubber shims on top of the rear spring coils. If the rubber shims need to be replaced, how do you know which thickness to use--the 9.5, the 14, or the 19.5mm?


How do I figure out which way I should go?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Joe