What is this part called? I have somehow avoided rear suspension work thus far...

Well.. The tech referred to it as a "creak-bushing" because it causes an annoying creaking sound in the rear suspension. but i doubt that's the correct name for it.

Freestyler

Freestyler; In your signature..... How did you "convert" an 86 300E to a 95 E320?:confused:

Freestyler

Did you replace the front and rear sway-bar bushings? They are inexpensive and quick to do. They do make a difference.

Definitely a DIYer.

Well.. *I* didn't do the job. It was already done when i bought it.

But you replace the hood, trunklid, headlight lenses, rear lights, side (euro) and corner lenses, braking system (to ABS) and the entire cabin with '95 parts. Mount the side err.. plastic parts on doors and fenders (what are they called!?) Then you have what looks just like a '95 model.
Drivetrain is still from '86.. -But running very well.

Freestyler

The sway-bar bushings was replaced along with all the other bushings when it was in the shop.
I could have done some of the things myself -And this is actually the very first time i've sent a car to a shop for mechanical repairs in my entire life..! But i didn't have the time or tools to do the entire job, so the shop got to do it all.
-Was only car-less (not careless!) for two days. If i had done it myself it would have taken me weeks. (haven't got a lot af spare time for the moment..)

Freestyler

That picture is called the "support joint" in MB-speak. Its pressed into the bottom of the wheel carrier (hub) and the spring link (lower control arm) bolts into it. Its a combination ball joint/bushing. There are supposed to be boots (like tie rod boots) on each side, but yours don't look so good.

Oh. Thanks.

Yikes! Very impressive. Who would've guessed that thing was once a balljoint...

Convertetd to 95E300?
 

Do you have any pictures of the car that was converted into a '95 E300? It sounds nice!

I'm thinking of doing the same to mine. At least the rear. All it takes is the updated lenses, a new trunk (chrome vs. plastic lid pull) and the longer bumper guard.

Les

Finding a good shop is so vital.. I tackle a lot of the projects on my car by myself. But if i dont have the time (or patience) I send my car off to the local foriegn car mechanic, his name is George. This guy is like a Mechanical Genius. He just did the water pump in my 1991 300E for $215 parts and labor... Call a mercedes dealership and get a quote on doing a water pump on a 103 Engine,, ITS RAPE... Always investigate your mechanics..