94 sl600 shocks/struts installation?

Hi all, I have an sl600 1994 and I had to replace the levelor a few miles ago. It rides rough and I mentioned that to the mechanic and he said it may be something other than shocks. I have done all kinds of work on my cars and the sl is one I do what I can on since it is so expensive. I got cds for the car on ebay but they are way to complex to install. Typical Mercedes. Question: Is the front a shock or a strut? Could I buy these and install them myself or does the levelizor make that a major problem. Is it as simple to replace these as other cars or do I have to deal with hydrolic factors? How can install these if I get the right tools. I would think I would have to pay 3-500$ for each of these so I would like to install myself if possible. I want to replace front first since the engine must weigh more than the Empire State building. Also, what is the other possibility besides shocks/struts that could make the car ride rough??