Rear Shocks for 300 SDL
 

I need to replace the rear shocks on my '87 300SDL. Is this normally a DIY project, any tips on type of shocks and how to replace them. thanks
Brad

Yes it is a DIYer and Bilsteins are the shocks to go with. Mercedes has been using Bilsteins forever, well 40 years at least. I am sure the procedure is the same for your chassis as it is for mine, W116. First, remove the back seat. This will allow you access to the top mounting bolt. Second, raise the car so that the trailing "A" arm is at it's lowest point. Put some jackstands in place, freeing up the jack. Remove the 2 lower bolts that hold the shock in place, I believe they are 17mm. With these bolts removed the shock will drop. If there isn't enough clearence to pull the shock out through the A arm, place the jack under the A arm, out towards the wheel. SLOWLY raise the A arm until there is enough room to pull the shock out. Installation is in the reverse, with one important safety tip. When you go to tighten the top bolt, hold the rod in place so that it doesn't turn. I used Vise Grips for this.
Hope this helps.

Brad

Rick gave you good advice on those shocks. The hardest part is getting the seat out. One thing that I would add is to soak the bolts on the bottom with liquid wrench real good before doing the job. I soaked mine for about a week before I did my job. Although that Might be excessive I would spray them down when I got home at night. You dont want to brake those bolts. OTher than that it was a simple enough job. I used Blistiens and am satisfied with the ride.

good luck,

bob

also while your there it may be a good time to change the rear brakes if needed. At least check the parking brake adjustment. and clean out all of the water drains

If I need to get rear swaybar links done, is this also a good time to get the rear shocks done or aren't they related?

Swaybar links are even easier. They are not connected in any way to the shocks, but they do play an important part of the car's cornering. For the links, raise the vehicle by the rear diff., put in the jackstands, remove both rear wheels, remove the 2 nuts to each link, put on new ones, put wheels back on, lower vehicle, done. The links cost about $8 a piece. This was of course for my W116 chassis.