I have to chime in on the compresser thing. I did all this suspension work over the past summer. I managed to compress the front springs with a universal type tool but the whole time I was very uncomfortable with the possibiltiy of injury. That spring is so powerful and you are working in a very small space.

The best thing to do is get all the necessary parts and rent the right tool. It is special to mercedes and can be obtained from Performance Products. With that tool, you can easily compress the spring and just remove it while you work on the suspension. Very much more relaxing.

Also, to do the rear suspension parts you will have to compress those springs as well and only the special mercedes tool will fit so try to kill both birds at once. Don't wast time and energy trying to find a local tool that will somehow work....I did that already. Be warned that it is a hard job in the rear (getting at the bushings that connect the trailing arms to the body of the car). No room. If you have a lift, life will be much better.

Nic
'85 300CD