W126 rear end sagging - Indy recommending a fix - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ck42 · #1 12-29-2003, 12:20 AM

Said that he'd gone through this before and after trying MANY different model springs, he found that the springs from a 420SEL did the trick. Apparently these springs are a little stiffer.

I trust this guy as well as anyone could trust any great Indy but I always like to get input from others on this forum.

Other things that I've read that can help raise the rear end is replacing rear subframe mounts and the diff. mount. As far as I know, mine are originals and should prolly be replaced regardless.

sixto · #2 12-29-2003, 01:46 AM

Look for my post on W126 rear subframe mounts. Essentially my rule of thumb is that there should be a notable and even gap between the subframe carrier and the plate that holds it in place. If the gap is only measurable with a feeler gauge or is uneven, you need new subframe mounts. Someone posted pictures of a good and bad diff mount. For the most part you don't want the center section resting on the bottom of the mount. You want to see a distinct bump either in the bottom of the center section or the part of frame the center section sits on when compressed. I forget where the bump should be exactly.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL
83 300SD

surfblau · #3 12-30-2003, 05:43 PM

I got new springs from Rusty- I talked to a guy who works there and he himself used the "sport or Heavy Duty" rather than the "comfort" springs that were recommended for the SDL.

I also changed the diff and subframe mounts, but changing the springs was what made the difference.

No more sagging.

alec

ck42 · #4 12-30-2003, 06:05 PM

Sixto:
Haven't gotten a chance yet to check those gaps but that sounds like a good way to go.

Alec:
Sounds good. I'll ask my Indy about those heavy duty SDL springs. Not sure if those were one of the many he tried or not.
Regardless, good to hear that the springs made the most difference.

surfblau · #5 12-30-2003, 06:31 PM

One note, I think a couple of people have noticed the same. When you put the new springs in, the back end will look high for several weeks. Don't get overly concerned. It will settle down and look just like when it rolled off the showroom floor after a number of weeks- at least with regard to rear ride height.

alec