anton28

I tried searching with no luck. Is there anyone making a coil over conversion for the r230 cars?

LukasBMW

I don't believe so. My research tells me that while the ABC system is prone to failure and ridiculously expensive to fix, it really is the best way to make a 4,300 pound car handle as well as it does.

anton28

Found a guy who makes custom coil overs for any application using high end parts. Will keep everyone posted.

the head

I'd be curious just to know. I've run Ohlins and Megan (cheap) coilovers in a couple of previously owned cars. I don't know what the weight savings would be for the SL, but if you actually went through the trouble of removing the whole system with hoses and other related parts it would probably be quite a bit. Seems like someone will try it sooner or later as the aftermarket continues to grow a bit with some owners willing to try a few things out.

Geo3

From quotes elsewhere on changing R230 to coil-overs :

The Black Series SL65 uses a new adjustable coil-over suspension (KW Variant3), as opposed to the unnatural-feeling Active Body Control (ABC) used on all other SLs. Befitting the serious nature of the Black Series, the suspension is quite stiff.

On the Black Series SL65, without ABC, when you do a "quick test" via the Star Diagnosis, there are current fault codes in control units that have "this fault code can be ignored in Black Series models" after the DTC. Therefore, it appears possible, to retrofit the coil-overs to other Sls.

However, the tandem ABC pump may have to be replaced with a power steering only pump (simpler and cheaper).

I continue to ponder if coil-overs would be a viable option when there is a catastrophic failure of the system, or if a fully adjustable suspension is desired.

KW Variant3 coil-overs (but could it be possible to fit a softer Variant1 or 2?)

SL65 Black Series with coil-over :

EsEl

GEO3...nice information and thanks for providing it. Looks like we may be seeing the beginning of options for ABC alternatives.

Geo3

Thanks. You're very welcome......Geo.

anton28

Geo thanks for the info! My scenario is a bit different then just dumping the ABC system because of its failure. I don't want to jump ahead and unveil my build as of yet but the entire drive train of the sl will be removed along with the computer control and replaced with something a bit more "aggressive". THe ABC system will just be one more thing that will get in the way of the cars reassembly and future function.

Geo3

Looking forward to seeing your build. Keep us posted......Geo.

Rick SL55

keep us posted, it will be a good choice to replace with coil cover conversion if complete failure of the ABC system happen.

anton28

Will keep everyone posted.

Geo3

Recently I have come across this strut conversion (although for 1999-2006 CL500, should be same as R230), and I am trying to find out if anyone knows more of the conversion.

http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w215...ation-kit.html

Front video:

Rear video :

I am aware that they say "Air Suspension", but I believe the CL500 was a hydraulic ABC vehicle only, so presume the text error was overlooked.

My SL55 AMG is at 64,000 km, and so far no problems, but it is only time. I want to be prepared when the inevitable happens.

Geo3

It appears kit (front and rear struts) is under us$1,600, and this includes the "light fix" module.

0-60Motorsports

So what If we get the OEM BS KW V3s and the light fix moduel for the SL55? Would that work?

Geo3

I have located the 200 to 2012 SL500 strut conversion kit, including the "light fix" module.

Here are installation videos for front and rear :

Front SL500 Install :


Rear SL500 Install :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=SpDdOG--hEQ

Kit for SL500 (us$ 1,795 including "Light Fix" module)

Note: they use Eibach springs and parts.

0-60Motorsports

So you think they'll work with the SL55 2003?

Geo3

I'l certainly hoping so, but still awaiting confirmation.

Hoping some knowledgeable forum members may contribute......Geo3.

0-60Motorsports

yeah me too. I'll call strut masters in a few hours and check with them.

Geo3

Just been in contact with Strutmasters, and unfortunately kit is not available yet for the SL55 AMG, but it's hoped to soon be ready (obviously a few changes over the SL500).

I'm on their waiting list.....Geo3

0-60Motorsports

Excellent. I need to get on there too. Will call them shortly.

edin_sl55

I understand why someone would want to get rid of abc but in my opinion the abc is what makes the r230 a great touring car. You take the abc out of it and stiffen it up then you might as well go buy a corvette or some other american car. The abc system is complex but with little knowledge it can be easily maintained as I just recently replaced the pump and cleaned the valve blocks.

I could understand if someone is building a track car but for everyday use I just cant imagine going from the comfort of the abc system to a stiff coilover system.

Geo3

You can actually have a softer sprung SL with coil-overs (which is the way I would prefer), dependent on the spring rates. My previous Ferrari was one of the best and most comfortable riding cars I've had, and it had regular coil-overs. I don't track my car, so don't require a stiffer sprung SL55.

I am currently happy with my ABC, as no problems yet, but at my last service, my dealer noted that I will need a new front strut sometime in the near future due to a lower ball joint showing some wear (MB cannot replace separately, although there are a couple of places in the UK that will insert a new ball joint in strut).

The reason I want to go this route is the dealer expense of ABC replacement parts. For example here, I'm looking at upwards of $2,000 for one strut replacement, and if a bad valve block (2) then $2,700 each, all including dealer labour.

With this conversion, as strut lines are capped off, and "light fix" module is connected, valve blocks, sensors, etc. become redundant, and it just makes economical sense.

0-60Motorsports

Absolutely agree with the above. ABC sucks! Coilovers FTW. I spoke to Strutmasters and all they said is that they don't have any kit for the SL55.

If you know something I don't, keep us updated as I need this coilover conversion kit ASAP.

kingnash

very interesting thread

RAWAMG

Keep this thread going

I would love to do this BUT I want to take out all of the hydraulic lines, wires, etc.