Rear Shocks on 1999 ml430

[DCF]

I wanted to start a seperate thread for this since the last one on rear shocks has gotten a bit unwieldy. I want to settle a debate once and for all for those similar to me (i.e., with early production 1999 ML 430s). A lot of people have touted how wonderful the cheaper shocks (163-320-23-13) they get on line are (less than $100 each) and that they replace what they have, even if it calls for a different one.

For the early 1999 ml 430s, the rear shock called for (and the ones I pulled out of mine this weekend) is 163-320-24-13 (aka L4000-159265). YOU NEED TO USE THIS SHOCK. Many have said that the 163-320-23-13 is nearly identical, which is true. However, the tiny difference between the two is what makes it not fit.

The stud on the bottom of the shock is slightly shorter on the ...23-13, and more importantly, has fewer threads and the seating bevel is cut in a differnt part of the shaft. When you try to put it in, everything fits fine EXCEPT the stud does not go al the way through the A arm, and it seats about 3/4 of an inch above the A arm. They do not work. While you could try and bore out the hole in the control arm, not only does that not look like it will work, you are asking to have that break shortly down the road.

While it may be tempting to use the ...23-13s instead of the ...24-13s (less than $100 ea vs. $250 ea) you are wasiting your time and some money (return shipping and restocking costs). If you have an early 99 ml 430 which calls for the ...24-13s, you have to pony up the cash.