Changeable with spring on? adjust the mount connection?

last week, my bolt fell out of the brake caliper, causing the one side to lock up at 55mph. I noticed today that the track/guide rod on that side is slightly bent, which I think probably accounts for its slight pull to that side.

I dont feel like dismantling the entire front end right now, since its only a nuisance. So, is it remotely possible to change the rod alone without compressing the spring, or, can I just bump out the setting at the rod mount to compensate a bit for the bend? It really is a minor bend; wouldn't have noticed it if I was working right in front of it.

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Paul
2004 E500 4matic; 72,000mi

IIRC the spring perch covers the front bolt of the guide rod so have to remove the front spring.

The guide rod serves as the caster adjustment so you might be able to get it back to spec without replacing the guide rod.

Sixto
93 300SD

A slight difference in castor really shouldn't make a huge difference, should it? That's more a ride comfort issue, right? I'm hoping to get by until I'm ready to do all those rubber componets down there all at once.

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Paul
2004 E500 4matic; 72,000mi

Thats what I was wondering. Could something else have bent as well? That bar is pretty strong but then again most of the force axis when the wheel locked was backwards. You might want to risk trying just an alignment first as someone mentioned. There should be enough adjustment. Nobody enjoys driving a car that pulls to one side. You might want to also measure to a known refference on each side and take a look that the rod socket was not pushed back as well.