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?