appreciate the comment about the write-up.

I always thought the w124 was similar to the w202 so I don't know why the step of tying the steering knuckle, unless it was an error in reference to the steps in the more common mcpherson strut assembly procedure

About using ramps, since the front shocks are calibrated to support the engine it MAY not be as easy to compress the shock as with the rear - but I would guess if you could do it with the rear you may be able to do it with the front as well. I've only done it with the wheel off and the suspension hanging.

I'm not that good a car mechanic to know what would work on the w124.

Also have you checked out the DIY ARTICLES tab on the top of the page? and I'm sure if you play around with the search feature here you'll get a better answer then what I know.