Spring compressor recommendations?
 

I am in the market for an MB spring compressor. Any leads are appreciated. How much is a fair price to pay?

This is one those critical tools that you do not want to fail.

Baumtools sells the Klann compressor, don't remember what it costs but I know it's expensive, like $600 or so. Look on eBay for the El Paso Tools clone, it sells for significantly less. I think I've seen it for $185 or so. Still an expensive tool no matter what. The clone's probably made in China but works just as well I've heard.

Here is my experience and some pics:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/306612-1991-300ce-front-alignment-new-springs.html

It can be done with the cheapy kind (~$30) like I used but if you are going to use it more than once or twice, go ahead and spend the $175 or so and get the correct one with the center rod and plates on the ends. This is a case where the right tool makes the job faster,easier and safer.

I found that I could not get these types to work:

1) 2 exterior bars with cast hooks. Hooks were too thick to engage spring.
2) 1 interior bar with one pair of hooks and a spoon/spatula shaped end piece. You can't get the hooks engaged from inside the spring, not enough room.

I bought the el paso, about $189 off of Ebay. It's the Baum tool compressor and says the name right on it and was shipped directly from Baum Tools. To clarify, I don't believe Baum tools sells an actual Klann brand name as mentioned above. If they do, this one I have is not the real McCoy - Klann original made in Germany unit. However, these are the clone and you can buy it for $600 advertized as a baum in various places or you can buy the same thing (actual Baum unit, same one) for <$200 shipped. I haven't actually had to use it yet but I am very happy with the quality and would buy it again without hesitation. I had a post on this a few months ago and got alot of good advice on the El Paso unit. The only caveat is the unit has a slightly larger center rod/screw piece than the Klann and I think the W123 LCA that you will insert through requires a small amount of grinding to fit the tool through. Search on the Klann clones, it is well covered here and I don't think any big deal that a dremel tool can't take care of. Some purists may have an issue with that but not me. I have a W124 anyway so it really doesn't matter to me but just beware. Let us know what you decide.

THe eBay compressor for $175 is by Baum Tools. I spoke with them sometime ago about this. I have never seen the Klann compressor in their catalog. If you go to alibaba.com you'll see all the CHina made ones there. Alibaba is just a website for wholesalers/manufaturers. You can't purchase there. http://www.alibaba.com/showroom/spring-compressor-for-mercedes.html