W116 sitting low in the back??? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

beaulieub · #1 10-20-2006, 07:49 PM

'80 300SD W116. How can I tell if the springs are shot? I swear this thing is too close to the ground but how can I be sure? Also, I've seen rubber pads that fit under the springs - can these be easily replaced without any special tools? What about lifters? I think I remember some guys snapping some metal lifters into the springs to raise a car. Are those still used today?

Brian Carlton · #2 10-20-2006, 09:11 PM

I'm not too familiar with the W116, so I can't provide an opinion of "too low".

However, as a general statement, most of these vehicles will sit dead level with no weight in the trunk and with about 1/2 tank of fuel. As you add weight from there, the tail begins to drop. At a full load, the tail is at least 3" lower than the front. This is the physics of the deal and you can't avoid it.

You can, however, bias the vehicle a bit higher via the use of taller springs or increased thickness spring pads. You may, however, not be pleased with the unloaded look. It takes very little height in the tail.......above level........to make one of these vehicles look absolutely stupid.

My '86 is 1" too high and it's borderline as far as the "stupid look" category. But, a bunch of tools in the trunk and a full load of fuel sets it up almost perfect.

Wodnek · #3 10-20-2006, 10:14 PM

The spring spacers you speak of keep one coil from giving. This is detrimental to ride and handling. My 79 300SD sits low in the back too. If I put 4 5 gallon cans of Bio diesel in the trunk it really squats. My 123 sedans stay level with the same load. I dont know if its a 116 thing or if the springs are just weak after 27 years.

beaulieub · #4 10-20-2006, 10:55 PM

I wonder if I can measure it from the ground against the production specs?