w210 LCA Tips
 

My buddy's w210 lower control arm rusted out and failed in his driveway. No real damage, he got lucky.

Any tips for slapping a new-used on it? Or is it as simple as pull the spring(with the $175 tool), slap the new one in, and uncompress the spring?


I know about the spring perch problem, he had those replaced years ago.

It's a simple and straightforward job, especially with the proper MB spring compressor. No unusual procedures or special tools needed. The easiest thing for a shade tree mechanic is to buy a new arm with the new bushings already installed. You'll need a front end alignment afterwards. I used the Lemforder brand arms on my car several years ago, still solid today. I would not use the Meyle brand.

If one rusted out, I'd wager that the other isn't far behind. This is a known w210 weakness. If it were my car, I'd replace both at the same time. Also consider replacing the other common wear items like shock absorbers and sway bar end links. Those are both really easy to replace, especially if you have the arms off.