I have a parts car to help with my 82 SD.
All 4 guide rod bushings have torn seals.( 2 each car)
Also, I removed all 4 for inspection and to verify the the long bolts come out. There was no problem getting them all loose.
I would like to use the mounts from my 91 parts car as they have 9 years less wear and exposure. I plan to order the replacement bushings and rebuild the mounts from the parts car making it quick to install them on the SD when I am ready.
The parts car has to be moved off the lift. Is there any danger off the springs popping out if I tow the car off the lift with the guide mounts removed?

I will have an answer--at least my answer---this week. Car will be towed off the lift and I will post back whatever happens. I expect that as long as the shocks remain attached, that the string will remain in place.

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1982 300SD " Wotan" ..On the road as of Jan 8, 2007 with Historic Tags

The strut keeps it from falling down, but I would use a ratchet strap to secure the ensemble from swinging forward or backwards.

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1979 Black on Black, 300CD (sold), 1990 Black 300SE, Silver 1989 Volvo 780, 1988 300CE (vanished by the hands of a girlfriend), 1992 300CE (Rescue).

I decided that discretion was the better idea. I bought some chain, and I will chain the lower control arm both forward and back to limits its movement. I just didn't like the possibility of a spring coming out.

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1982 300SD " Wotan" ..On the road as of Jan 8, 2007 with Historic Tags

I used a chain from the lower control arm back to one of the guide rod mount bolts and forward to a bumper mount bolt. Just enough slack to allow some movement.
It worked----at least for the 100' or so that I needed to move it. Nothing bad happened.
However, I do not plan on using the chain as a substitute for the factory guide rod mounts.

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1982 300SD " Wotan" ..On the road as of Jan 8, 2007 with Historic Tags