tips for changing front shocks 230 sl

[merrill]

so, changed the front shocks on my  230 sl today.  
I learned 2 tips that I would like to pass on.

1. pre set the angle of the bracket on the new shock so that it matches the old one.  This way the threads on the lower mounting bracket will drop right in.

2. if and only if one is replacing the shocks, I used a vise grip to
secure the upper shock rod (one that bolts in the engine compartment)
so I could use my impact wrench to remove the securing  bolts.

this is much easier than trying  hold the squared off top of the rod with a pliers while removing the bolts.

matt

[Raymond]

Step 1 applies to all models.



Ray
'68 280SL 4-spd Coupe

[JimVillers]

I use a small bottle jack under the shock to lift it in positionand then to align the bracket.  It takes very little force.  I do the bottom first.

Jim Villers
190SL, 230SL 5-Speed, 190E 2.3-16 Kompressor

[Benz Dr.]

The piece that goes on top of the rubber bushing and under the nut is placed cup side up. I see almost all of them with the cupped side down which is totaly wrong. This makes the top of the shock bind in that area.

Dan Caron's
 SL Barn
benzbarn@ebtech.net
 slbarn.mbz.org
  1 877 661 6061