Thanks for the imagery and info!! (printing now)
The front shocks were replaced this evening in about an hour and a half. Super simple and very straightforward. How's that stack up to the tech time alloted?
tabo,
I went with aftermarket shocks (Bilsteins) but the coils on the rear units aren't included. A little concern is building but challenges are good for the soul and it makes the Guinness taste better.
The slugs removed this evening were, IMHO, factory fitment and with 122K miles, they died long ago (read: noisy over bumps, too much rebound, etc.) Post-install shakedown ride profile difference was immediately noticible upon leaving the driveway.
Fear not, digital imagery was captured of the front and will occur on the rear as well. All will be posted upon project completion. Your images help A LOT and the favor shall be returned.
gilly,
My apologies for the confusion. The fronts are a SUPER easy R&R (see above). However, under the plastic 'sleeve' on the MB shock shaft was what appeared to be a bumpstop. It was transferred to the new shock as I didn't notice any obvious bumpstops on the frame.
I'd rather have it there than not if nothing more than to protect the shock.
Thank you for the link with the writeup on the rear strut removal and the torque specs. Sounds like preseverance is key here.
That Pete Guy,
Having replaced shocks on my Lightning, I honestly loathed driving the Benz because of its less than acceptable ride profile compared to the 'Redneck AMG.' Handling and neck-snapping torque comparisons aside as they aren't relevant to this topic and don't apply to a four out of five M-Class offerings...
myarmar,
Thank you very much for the torque specs!
Respectfully,