72 300 SEL 4.5 AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM

When starting-- the suspension system pumps the car up from nose down--how long on average after switching off engine should it talk for system to reach nose down again--mine seems to be about 48hrs and I'm trying to find out if that is about right or whether I have a problem

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syd 81.300SD
72.300SEL 4.5

According to M.B. the suspension should stay up for 30 days if the system doesn't leak!!
The most common leak is at the leveling valves. The car has three valves & a master control valve that can leak.

must have leak ---can you tell me where valves and master are located---my solution would be to fully charge the system then check all pipes and joints with a soapy solution and watch for bubbles--do you think this is feasible---syd

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syd 81.300SD
72.300SEL 4.5

[This message has been edited by SYDDONNA (edited 06-02-99).]

This is a very good way to check it, just do as you say. Crank the car and pressurize it and then turn engine off. Use a non-flammable solution to spray on and watch for the bubbles!! Good luck.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

I followed cable back from lift control knob to a unit which I assume is the main control valve---this has a selector unit on it with three positions--two dimples and a slot--with a ball locator-- noticed the ball was only half in slot---repositioned and recharged system marked tires with chalk as reference--the above unit is fed by a hose from a unit in front---which has fluid in it ---QUESTION--what is this fluid and how high in the resevoir should it be ---it appears to be down the bottom and fairly empty

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syd 81.300SD
72.300SEL 4.5

The fluid reservoir uses alcohol to keep water that has been condensed from the air compressor from freezing & damaging the suspension system. There is a drain at the bottom of the air reservoir, just push it to let the water out. Don't get wet!!

MB DOC and BENZMAC thanks for all your help---- looking good --I think I have a working system ---it will be interesting to see how long it stays up ----the engine runs and the suspension works-everything else needs fixing ---IT only cost $250-onto the brakes next---thanks again

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syd 81.300SD
72.300SEL 4.5

[This message has been edited by SYDDONNA (edited 06-03-99).]