Left front suspension list

[cfm65@me.com]

Hi Guys,
The left front of my 250SL has sagged and unfortunately, I have not had a chance of putting it on a lift or over my pit, but maybe someone could give me a heads up on where to look.
The height of the fender arches from the ground are,
LF 61.8cm, RF 63.3cm
LR 62.8cm and RR 64cm.
It is quite obvious that something is amiss at the front left suspension.
Your inputs will be much appreciated.
Regards
Chris
Cape Town

[Cees Klumper]

Broken spring maybe? It happens, both rear springs on my 2001 Volvo failed, years apart.

[Pawel66]

It could be a broken spring, of course, but once you have it up on the stand:
1. Could be that someone (PO) replaced just one spring back in a day
2. Could be a heavy PO was driving alone for years
3. These springs have top and bottom - maybe someone installed one of the wrongly
4. Ride height is regulated by thickness of the upper spring pad. They came in various thickness (height) values (a couple of years ago I bought them from Mercedes). Maybe someone was not careful and installed two different ones?

Besides: I am not sure if I would be worried about 1cm difference, but that is just me, I am not an expert.

[Duncan200]

Hi Chris,

1.5cm is nothing to worry about. Even now when measuring ride heights for Wheel Alignment the tolerances are greater than that.

Given your in SA, I gather your car is RHD?

With most paired springs, one will be slightly higher and this one is fitted to the drivers side, at least that has been my experience in the automotive industry for over 30 years.

Obviously once you’re in the drivers seat the difference will be the other way.

Doug

[cfm65@me.com]

Thanks gents,
I have a LHD and replaced some springs a few years ago. However, as far as I can remember, it was the rear springs that I replaced.
I will report back, once I have it over the pit.
Much appreciated.
Chris