Rebuilding 300E suspension
 

I am slowly replacing worn suspension components on my '86 300E. So far I have done front struts, rear shocks, diff. mounts, thrust arms, idler arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and steering damper. Here's what I am faced with now. My mechanic has given a list of what he thinks should be replaced. All prices are parts and labor:

center drag link - $145
both tie rods - $165
complete control arm with new bushings and ball joints - $713
alignment of course - $100

Right ball joint and tie rod both have torn boots, so I'm in at least that far. This would be my first "big" repair and am trying not to get queasy. Any thoughts? Do these prices seem reasonable?

Blake
'86 300E
256K

$713 sounds high for a control arm rebuild or replacement, unless that includes both sides, in which case it's a good deal.

Blake,

I'm not sure if you replaced the struts and shocks or if it sounds that way in your post via words. However, If you have enough mechanical ability to replace those, the center link or drag link as some call and the tie rods should be no match. It is a fairly easy job. you will just need to rent the tool. :D

Good luck

Yes, the $713 is for both sides. I did the front struts and rear shocks, they were not hard at all.

Is the tool I would need a generic tie rod separator for the drag link and tie rods? Thanks for the replies.

Blake
'86 300E
256K

A generic tie rod separator will work for all of the balljoints in the rack.

I really do not like the 'pickle fork' type because they do so much damage, but I suppose that is ok if they are being replaced.

The '2-arm puller' type of separator is very effective, and does no damage to the boots.

This rack bits are a good DIY project. Try to get the alignment close enough to drive to the alignment shop by marking everything before disassembly.

The Control arm rebuilds are a bit more involved. I have participated in rebuilding 6 of them this year, and now have the process down to a science, but I would not classify this as an easy job.