Top Wishbone missing threaded bushing

[Sens]

Hello,

I purchased a partly restored 250SL (1967) and I found out that one of the inner threaded bushings of the top wishbone is missing. (picture 1) No further damage as far as I  can judge. It looks like there is more room at the left side (back side of the car) of the wishbone that at the right side (front). (picture 2)

Is it necessary to get the spring out and release the pressure to put the bushing back in place?
If possible I would like to avoid that. (looks like a dangerous job...)

I can move the wishbone a little up and down (I think it is enough) by using a piece of wood as a lever. Possibly I can create enough room to put the bushing in place...

Any special tips?

Thanks a lot!

H. Sens

[cfm65@me.com]

Hi Sens,
I have done a few of these front suspensions and it is not a big deal.
If you prefer not to remove the spring, hire a set of spring clamps in order to relieve the tension and replace the bushing. Ensure that the threads on both the wishbone and the trunnion( I think that is what it is called) are not ruined. I would not be surprised if damaged threads is the cause of the bushing’s disappearance.
Regards
Chris

[Sens]

Thanks Chris!

I read that lifting the lower wishbone will release the tension of the upper wishbone.
That might also be a way to do it. Will that work?

Did you remove the spring in your case and can you do it like it says in the Haynes manual?

Best regards,

H.Sens

[cfm65@me.com]

Hi Sens,
Yep, by lifting the lower wishbone, you will tension the spring and it should go in quite easily.
And yes, I have done quite a few 190SL’s, Pagodas, 220se Coupe and 220Se Cabrio etc, they all have the same setup.
I have not looked at the Haynes manual for a while, but I am sure I used it on my first old Mercedes suspension job.
I have one and can have a look if you like, but it is no biggie, even if you have to remove the spring.
Cheers
Chris

[Sens]

Hi Chris,

As far as I can see both the threads look still OK.

I tried to tension the spring by lifting it and I think I will be able to enter the threaded bushing in the upper wishbone.
That big spring just frightens me a little: I don't want to wake him up and make him angry...

I'll give it a try as soon as the parts arrives and keep you posted!

Thanks so far.

[cfm65@me.com]

Hi Sens,
The spring is not a problem and not as fierce as it might seem, however if you are not sure what is about to happen or feel uncomfortable, STOP and don’t attempt it.
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE TO REMOVE THE SPRING, DON’T
In case you have to, read this.
Support the lower wishbone with a trolley jack and support the car with stands.
Remove the wheel and loosen the lower kingpin retaining nut at the bottom of the wishbone. As the nut loosens on the thread, ensure that the spring is kept in check with the lower wishbone and the jack.
With the loose kingpin hanging between your face and the spring, gently lower the wishbone. By the time the kingpin is ready to disengage from the lower wish bone, most of the spring tension is released.
With the kingpin about and inch or so above the wishbone, all the spring tension is nearly released. The spring will pop out like little baby lamb.
This is really not a big deal, however if you are not 100% happy or unsure of what you are about to do, don’t.
Regards
Chris

[Sens]

Hello,

I was able to replace the missing threaded bushing part without removing the main spring.
I lifted the lower wishbone with a trolley jack and that removed enough tension to place the missing part.

In the end it was a very easy repair!!

Thanks for your support!

Halvor Sens

[cfm65@me.com]

Well done, Halvor.
Enjoy your car. Mine is also a 67 250SL.
Regards
Chris