My 1990 300D has a bad ball joint LF. With 286K miles I will replace the A-frames using the LEM..... parts at Pelican. A couple of questions:

Can I use my universal McPherson strut spring compressors? The real MB tool costs more than the price of the parts. Or, does anyone rent the proper tools?

Does anyone make a boot which does not require dropping the strut to replace?

The shocks seem OK. Is that possible after all these miles? I'm thinking I should probably replace them also.

Appreciate your thoughts. Only had this car 2 years but I love it.