I want to compress the bumper struts to bring the bumpers in closer to the body on a 123. I've taken a front one mostly apart, but haven't seen a spring. I have a parts car, so I can mutilate or whatever needs to be done. Anyone out there done this?

On the two w123's I've messed with, I took front and rear bumpers off them both. The bumper struts are basically a steel tube, with a rubber pad to cushion. I haven't seen any springs. I believe you will need to cut the bumper as well if you plan on getting it closer to the car. If you can weld, shortening the struts shouldn't be a big deal. Good luck!

They will compress. Mine has a broken mounting plate on it and I can push the bumper in and out with my foot.

Someone did mine free of charge without even asking for it in Chicago a few years ago. I can get you an address where it happened if you would like, maybe they are still doing it free there. The only problem with their work is it was very uneven across the front of the vehicle.

When the bumper collapses from impact the rubber bond between the inner and outer tube is destroyed. I just pulled mine back out and put on a touch of electric weld.

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1984 300SD turbo 126
"My true love"

God made me an atheist and who am I to question His wisdom

I'd love to put Euro bumpers back on my '84 Euro TD. It has US bumpers now.
If you'll never worry about someone else hitting your car, go for it!

Happy Motoring, Mark

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DrDKW