300E front shock question

When replacing front shock/struts (DIY), is it necessary to compress the springs, or can the installation be done without this step?

Thanks.

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Reply to
Oneguy
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If you are thinking of doing a job that involves compressing the suspension springs, then you really should check this out before you start:

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300 Essie
Reply to
300 Essie

Holy Crap! That spring compressor are only meant to compress the Mcpherson strut type spring... you know... the spring located inside of the struts... not MB springs except the new C class which uses McPherson struts.

Even as that picture show, that guy did not use the safety hook that is supposed to be used with those compressor. The reason he didn't use it is because they don't fit... too small.

McPherson strut type springs are only 1/2 the thickness of MB or chassis springs. and are far weaker in spring tension strength...

I used Sir Tool compressor and it has failed on me too. I was lucky I only hurt my wrist.

For Oneguy... I suggest strongly you get the MB service manual and study what is involved before you do it.

Reply to
Tiger

Those photos were from when I changed the pads on my sportline springs up front. Wouldn't do it again. Had the compressors slip half a dozen times each side before I got a good "seat". My friend was pissed when I returned the compressors to him bent...

In response to the original question, yes you can change the front shocks without a spring compressor. IIRC, you detach the sway bar at the wheel hub, then unbolt the shock up top. The wishbone should swing down and free the top of the shock without releasing all of the spring tension, and it'll remain stable and secure while you pull the shock. I do reccomend putting a jack under the wishbone and jacking it up a bit once you free the top of the shock, to make sure there is no chance of the spring coming out.

-Mike

Reply to
Mike "Rotor" Nowak

Many thanks!

O.G.

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Oneguy

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