Hoaesq

Howdy Folks,

Relatively new to this forum (I've visited and searched a few times but never posted until now).

I have a 2008 GL450 and was looking to enhance the suspension. It was my wife's MB and now it's mine for the next couple of years. I enjoy the ride but am looking for something to make it firmer and give it a more aggressive stance. I'll be upgrading the rims and tires but would like to possibly change out the shocks and struts (assuming it is possible with the air suspension).

I've research and I know there are modules for lowering but they are pricey and not something I am really interested because once I set up the height, I don't intend to raise or lower after that so the modules are more than I need. I heard there are links as well and ideal for me - any suggestion where I can get the links?

I'd love to have everyone's thoughts.

PeterTownsend

Hi Hoaesq, welcome to the forum. I had the same questions as you did and installed links two weeks ago and driven quite a bit. Planning to recap my experience by Thursday in another thread. Stay tuned.

alx

No need for lowering module or links. Shim the front height sensors with washers (you will see how once you take a look) and bent the rear brackets (again- once get there you will see how).

But... You will not like the results dynamics- wise. The ride will be firmer, but bouncier with more head toss and your front shocks might start to clunk a bit.

I did not like it. It is uncomfortable and out of character for this land barge. The stock ride is perfect IMO. You want a more compliant feel? Get a cayenne..

Hoaesq

I don't like the idea of adding shims or bending anything. I'll play for the links and if I'm not happy, I'll switch back to the OEMs; however, your idea would be the most cost effective method.

As for your situation, did you mean the shocks were "bottoming out"? If so, is it possible to replace the current OEM shocks/struts with a set of heavy duty shocks/struts? When I lowered my X5 with links, I upgraded to a set of HD Bilsteins on all for corners and never had an issue with the shocks bottoming out.

Also, I'm not looking to slam the GL, just looking for a lowered aggressive stance and better handling, i.e., a firmer ride.

alx

There are no aftermarket shocks. Oem or remanufactured oem by Arnott are your only choice.

I think the stock height on the front is chosen so it is in the sweet spot for the front shocks. Any lower and they are out of their "comfort zone" so to speak. Some will do fine, others will clunk despite being far from bottoming out. So... Your mileage will vary.

Ike Luv

Let me know if I'm wrong anybody, but you don't need any lowering links or modules. The STAR tool can lower it for you. Either get a nice relationship with a service adviser or get someone who has the STAR tool. 9 times out of 10, the stealership won't do it for you unless your really cool with them. I could have lowered my E55 via STAR, I just never got around to it...

Hoaesq

STAR tool? Is that a hardware/software?

Any body know of a vendor where I can purchase the lowering links?

Thanks

Ike Luv

STAR is basically what the technicians at the dealership use to diagnose anything wrong with your car. You can also make adjustments to just about every part of the car with it, including the ride height. I'm certain you can do it on cars but I don't know about SUV's with AIRMATIC. I don't see why not though. I mean I really don't understand why people would get lowering links or modules unless they didn't have access to a STAR computer?

alx

Lowering via star requires star setup plus knowledge. Also most vehicles will not just lower with star. There is some trickery involved as star more often than not will not accept the new ride height values right off the bat.