Can I R&R Tie Rods, Drag Link, Idler Arm bushings, and steering dampener with the car on ramps (suspension loaded) or is better to have the front end on jacks with the wheels dangling (suspension unloaded).

I kind of like the wheels on ramps vs car on stands when rough housing with older parts removal.

Thanks!

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1986 300SDL 440,xxx

( for cars in general )
Might not clear the wheel



You need to turn the steering wheel for access and possibly have the tire out of the way to extract the link from the car.



Would probably clear



Would clear if you can access the bolts.

Wheels off is better for your overall project.

I just replaced the steering damper on my '83 SD and you can do it on ramps but as 97SL320 stated it would be easier wheels off. If just doing the damper itself it's not bad but would easier if you have the wheel off (or at least can turn it).

Sometime in the first year I got My Car I removed the Steering Damper to spray Enging Degreaser on the Suspension.
I never put it back on and not having it has had no adverse effect. In fact not having it makes it easier to make the slow tight turns when I back out of My Drive Way and the Street is full of parked Cars behind Me.
I have been driving without it for 5 years.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

Thanks for the advice. I had forgotten about the component access piece. I was more worried about some phantom "suspension load requirement" that I thought I had heard.

Thanks again!

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1986 300SDL 440,xxx

Some suspension load / unload considerations.

When checking the ball joints, they must be unloaded. If the spring operates on the lower control arm, the arm must be supported. If the spring operates on the upper control arm or strut, support the frame so the wheels hang unloaded.

Tie rod play should be checked with the suspension in a loaded position only so the point of max wear can be checked. If the suspension hangs, the unworn portions touch making the joint feel better than it actually is.

When replacing rubber suspension bushings, install the parts but leave the bolts loose, support the car by the wheels then tighten the bolts. Most suspension bushings are flex joints rather than rotating joints. If they are tightened with wheels hanging the bushing will be over stressed and may tear.

I follow your points. Thanks so much!

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1986 300SDL 440,xxx