Would this new spring compressor work on a W210
 

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2410620592&category=6754

Seems that it could be an inexpensive substitute for the $600 plate tool. Anyone?

This tool is available at Harbor Freight. Go to their web site and check it out. If I remember correctly, the specs on it are less than impressive -- something like 1500 lbs max. While that sounds like a lot, I don't think I'd feel comfortable using it knowing how far the spring must be compressed, and estimating how much force is required to do so. I think you would be operating near the max capacity for the tool. IMHO, probably not a good idea. (besides the fact that applying force on only one side seems like it would be unstable.)

Just my 2-cents. (Arguably worth that)

Jeff Pierce

The way the tool is designed, the hydraulic cylinder would be off to the side of the spring, with the cylinder pointed down. That being the case, I don't know if it would clear the lower control arm, sway bar, etc. I don't think it would work at all with the cylinder pointing up (for clearance reasons).

Is there any reason why this compressor won't work?

(Keep in mind I have not used one on a MB. But it looks like it would work.)

Jeff Pierce

Hard to say about the second one. Depending on how long it is, the stud might project itself through the end of the spring as you compress the spring. This could mean compressing the spring more than necessary with the correct compressor, making it harder or impossible. Have you called Performance Products to see if they rent the plate compressor. I borrowed one last year and it is a delight to use, positive compression, secure on the compressed spring, worth every penny if you have to do springs very often.

Yes, renting the tool is an option. I was just curious whether the hydraulic tool would do the job. Since the cost of the tool is about the same as the rental, it could be nice.

This tool (the one on ebay) can only be used on springs/spring assembly that is already out of the car. The plate tool is for compressing the spring while still installed in the car and also while clamped on a vise. On most MB cars, you need to compress the spring prior to removal and also installation therefore the plate tool is needed. The tool on ebay will not have enough space for it to work in this particular part of the car.

I researched this and the hydraulic unit does not produce the force you will need for the spring. At least the 123 spring.
The internal unit, you can't get it into the interior of the spring. I have one and you can't get it in the spring opening at the top. The 123 has a plate at the bottom so that way is also out.

Consider buying or renting the SIR TOOL of the Klann tool. I know its expensive but after doing the 123 suspension, both front and rear, I would not use any other kind of spring compressor on the springs. I did a 65 Mustang with the internal type of compressor. It was fine. the springs are not that tall and rather weak. The Mercedes springs are quite tall and VERY strong.

Performance Products rents the Sir Tool and do a search on the Klann unit. Some one on the forum is trying to do a Group purchase to get the price down

Dave