Rear Shocks - Do I Have The Right Ones? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

sensybal · #1 04-28-2013, 07:17 PM

I posted this but I didn't see it come up so I'm posting again.

Hi All,

So I undertook replacing the rear shocks on my 83 240d and I've run into way more trouble than I anticipated.

The problem is that when I tried to install the new Bilstein shocks they seem to be about a quater or an inch too long. That is, they are sticking out past the rear seat opening, which means that (1) there isn't enough clearance to get the bushings on and (2) even if I could, I wouldn't be able to get the plastic cover back on.

Further, the new ones came with two bushings where as the ones I took off (also Bilstein) only had one, and, when I compare them side by side, the new ones do seem about a quarter of inch longer.

I'm thinking that maybe Pelican sent me the wrong ones. The part number is 123-320-01-31-M12, found here: 1977 Mercedes-Benz 230 Sedan - Suspension, Shocks & Springs - Page 1

Those are the ones that Pelican says I need, but I just don't see how they are supposed to fit. Anyone have any idea of what's going on or if I'm doing something wrong?

whunter · #2 04-28-2013, 07:34 PM

They come out and go in through the bottom of the trailing arm.

You install one cap and (the thicker) bushing on the top of the shock before inserting through the trailing arm.

The remaining cap, bushing, and nut are installed through the passenger compartment.

Usually:
* I lift the trailing arm enough to just slightly pass the shock through the body.
* Attach the shock at the bottom (trailing arm) first.
* Then lift the trailing arm a bit more to fully seat the shock top through the body.
* Install the upper bushing, cap, and tighten the nut.

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