First, a "stupid" question...what is the difference between a shock (absorber) and a strut? Or, are they different words for the same thing?

When I replaced the shocks/struts on my coupe, I had the mechanic do it. Just easier and more convenient at that time. Now, I want to replace the shocks/struts on my '85 190D 2.2, and hopefully do it myself.

Can both the front and rear be changed without any special tools? Do I need a spring compressor? Which is the easiest to change? (and I'll have the mechanic do the other, that requires special tools or is a safety issue for stupid shade-tree mechanics like myself). IIRC, one of the set, front or rear, require a spring compressor and is not wise for someone who isn't sure what they are doing to perform the operation. The other is supposed to be a simple bolt-off/bolt-on job. Thanks for any help. Time to start saving money by doing the simple maintenance myself.

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-Steven

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1959 190b, totalled
1968 220D, sold
1969 230/8, sold
1980 240D manual, gave away at 300k (stupid me)
1985 190D 2.2 manual, gave away to a youngster
1989 300CE, sold when I retired - major regrets

Both can be done easily. You do not need a spring compressor because you do not need to lower the control arm all the way down in order to replace the shocks. You can pull the shaft downwards and it'll come out of the strut mount. Make sure you have a jack under the control arm to keep it from dropping down. But you don't need a spring compressor to replace the struts per se.

The rears are shocks, and are very easily changed. The struts are in the front.

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'98 E300 DT
'87 190D 2.5 turbo RIP
'92 S500 Sold
'03 3.2TL-S A-Spec