I'm considering replacing the shocks on this car with new Bilstein HD's all around (222,000 miles on originals). Is this something I can do myself or should I take it to the shop? Also, will I need a wheel alingment as well? Thanks.
-JIM380

Shocks is an easy DIY project, not too complicated or difficult. Simple matter of one, possibly two bolts/nuts holding the lower end of the shock to the control arm or rear axle. Plus one (usually doubled) nut at the top. There is a fancy little tool for holding the top shock rod while loosening the top nut(s), but I've never used one. Found that a 1/4 inch open end fits just fine for holding the rod.

You will need to lift the car to access the lower nuts/bolts. A set of ramps will work just fine, or place the vehicle securely on appropriate jack stands. Under NO circumstances should you work under a car supported solely by a floor jack.

I would also like to suggest checking out the prices of replacement Bilstiens right here at the PartsShop.

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.

Thanks Mike. That's good news and should save me some money. I take it no wheel allignment is needed? -Jim

In most cases I don't believe an alignment is necessary after shock replacement. While you are under there I'd also suggest checking/replacing the steering dampener. That's the shock that lays up next to the drag link, it bolts to the drag link and the frame. An excellent $30.00 investment.

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.

Thanks again Mike. I already replaced the dampener. I got one from Precision Auto, BOGE, but it didn't look as well made as what was on there so I went to the dealer and got a german made one (the BOGE was made in latin america I think). -Jim

Been a while since I did them myself but the rear shocks on the 107 chassis are a little more difficult in that disassembly of the rear seat area is necessary to access the top of the shock.

The alignment is not affected by shocks except that new gas shocks are equivalent to 70lbs of verticle force a piece. This will slightly change the ride height and slighly alter the camber and toe setting if the old shocks were dead the last time it was alighned.

__________________
Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician

This is likely since I believe I still have the original shocks. -Jim