W203/CL203 Suspension (Shocks/Springs/Sway Bars) Discussion/Upgrade Thread
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Joined: Jul 2006
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From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
They are easy enough to cut. A metal cutoff blade (for rebar) in my trusty worm-drive circular saw will get through one in less than 10 seconds. That’s how I used to do it. If you intend to DIY on a trial-and-error basis, please keep in mind that the labor investment necessary to R&R the springs for trimming far exceeds that of fitting appropriate parts the first time ‘round. Although reducing the length and free coils of any spring will increase its rate, any such change will not be nearly sufficient to keep your W203 suspension off its jounce snubbers during even the most gentle dynamic maneuvers or spirited driving. Late model SS or European springs will likely achieve a superior result for you purposes. They are quite affordable, too.
A gratuitous early picture of one with H&R 52792 (F) and 52792-2 (R) springs for reference -
Please do not interpret my post as in any way dissuading you from obtaining the ride height you desire. On the contrary, MB’s early renditions are almost as high as my GMC! We would simply like you to complete the task of lowering it properly and in a manner keeping with the marque on your first attempt. Let me know if you care for OE part numbers or appropriate aftermarket contact information. If that’s not going to work for you, start with a ½ coil in front and a full coil in the rear.
A gratuitous early picture of one with H&R 52792 (F) and 52792-2 (R) springs for reference -
Please do not interpret my post as in any way dissuading you from obtaining the ride height you desire. On the contrary, MB’s early renditions are almost as high as my GMC! We would simply like you to complete the task of lowering it properly and in a manner keeping with the marque on your first attempt. Let me know if you care for OE part numbers or appropriate aftermarket contact information. If that’s not going to work for you, start with a ½ coil in front and a full coil in the rear.
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2005
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From: Fullerton, CA...Riverside, CA
2007 Honda CBR 600RR// BLK'03 C32K (RIP)// 2003 Acura RSX Type-S//1999 Lexus SC400//
when i had my c-klass i had H&R springs and had it cut so it drops down two more inches...does look a lot nicer but coilover is better in my opinion
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From: Jakarta
1996 MB E320 & 2010 Nissan Elgrand
I installed Eibach Pro-kit springs and Bilstein shocks plus 19s on my mom's C200 and cut 3/4 coil F and 1/2 coil R. The car is sitting on 2 fingers gaps all around and it's 2 semi vertical finger gaps, not horizontal finger gaps.
The car rides ALOT nicer than my car with Tein COs and 19s, but the downside is you can't adjust the height with springs.
GET fully adjustable COs!
The car rides ALOT nicer than my car with Tein COs and 19s, but the downside is you can't adjust the height with springs.
GET fully adjustable COs!
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 272
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From: Fullerton, CA...Riverside, CA
2007 Honda CBR 600RR// BLK'03 C32K (RIP)// 2003 Acura RSX Type-S//1999 Lexus SC400//
i had H&R Sport Springs cut in the front to lower the car more due to the Expression kit...honestly...looks so much better..haha
Last edited by jtC320; Jan 1, 2008 at 06:07 AM.
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From: Barcelona-Spain
Brabus K3
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Joined: Apr 2002
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From: San Diego
2003 c320
I have a question regarding noise and knocking. I have the kw v2 on my car. its a 2003 c320. i think i got the knocking fixed by using spacers. anyhow if the shock itself makes noise, is there a way to get rid of that or would I need new shocks. i bought these used off another member here.
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Joined: Feb 2005
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From: Jakarta
1996 MB E320 & 2010 Nissan Elgrand
I have a question regarding noise and knocking. I have the kw v2 on my car. its a 2003 c320. i think i got the knocking fixed by using spacers. anyhow if the shock itself makes noise, is there a way to get rid of that or would I need new shocks. i bought these used off another member here.
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..
I have a question regarding noise and knocking. I have the kw v2 on my car. its a 2003 c320. i think i got the knocking fixed by using spacers. anyhow if the shock itself makes noise, is there a way to get rid of that or would I need new shocks. i bought these used off another member here.
The most likely cause of this problem is because the top hat is not secured all the way. Ken's C55 had this same problem where it would knock and it went away after the top hat was tightened down with the proper tool. Not sure if the top hat tool was used for your install but it might be a good idea to double check.
Last edited by sdsilverm3; Jan 16, 2008 at 05:50 PM.
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From: San Jose, Bay Area
2002 C230 coupe , NOt THE AVATAR!!
yup, i got crazy knocking sound too "only" when i turn real slowwww or parking
i thought it was only me but one time i took the wheels off and check out whats going on, nothing.
so i put the wheels back on and the knocking sound are gone
i thought it was only me but one time i took the wheels off and check out whats going on, nothing.
so i put the wheels back on and the knocking sound are gone
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 296
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From: FLORIDA
2003 C240
Ag Who???
Anyone know about "Aniceto Gomez" AG lowering kit?
http://www.ag.com.ar/ingles/index.html
Their factory is based in Argentina & been in business for 50 years.
Also been selling their springs in the U.S. for several years.
more...
http://www.autosportz.com/suspension...cedes_benz.htm
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/NEW-M...em130190506419
http://www.ag.com.ar/ingles/index.html
Their factory is based in Argentina & been in business for 50 years.
Also been selling their springs in the U.S. for several years.
more...
http://www.autosportz.com/suspension...cedes_benz.htm
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/NEW-M...em130190506419
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 390
Likes: 1
From: San Diego
2003 c320
Not sure how the spacers fixed the problem unless the wheel or tire was rubbing the springs or coilover seat.
The most likely cause of this problem is because the top hat is not secured all the way. Ken's C55 had this same problem where it would knock and it went away after the top hat was tightened down with the proper tool. Not sure if the top hat tool was used for your install but it might be a good idea to double check.
The most likely cause of this problem is because the top hat is not secured all the way. Ken's C55 had this same problem where it would knock and it went away after the top hat was tightened down with the proper tool. Not sure if the top hat tool was used for your install but it might be a good idea to double check.
I think the only noise issue now is the spring compression sound when I go over speed bumps.
I really get annoyed by it though.
anybody know how high I can go in the back. I think its a little to low for my taste. the top of the tire is even with the fender but I would like maybe a finger or two gap between. Is it even safe to use the rubber spacer from the stock suspension for the rear coilovers?
Last edited by dac086; Jan 17, 2008 at 05:43 PM.
Super Member
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 844
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From: SF South Bay
2002 C230 Coupe
I have TIEN SS and also had noise issue when going over bumps or slow turns. Sounded like something needed lubrication and initially thought it was the sway bar bushings.
Turned out to be the squeeky rubber collars on top of the shocks getting stuck on the piston rod from dirt build up. Jacked the car up, gave the collars a few good ups and downs and rotations and problem fixed.
Turned out to be the squeeky rubber collars on top of the shocks getting stuck on the piston rod from dirt build up. Jacked the car up, gave the collars a few good ups and downs and rotations and problem fixed.
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Joined: Nov 2005
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From: Calgary, Alberta
2007 ML500
dac086, I don't think TEIN recommends using the rubber shim on the rear springs but I think I'm going to leave mine in anyways.
I just placed my order for a set of TEIN Super Streets for my 230 Coupe along with new upper mounts from MB so everything will be replaced with new parts only.
Keep posted!
I just placed my order for a set of TEIN Super Streets for my 230 Coupe along with new upper mounts from MB so everything will be replaced with new parts only.
Keep posted!
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 4,152
Likes: 60
From: NJ, NYC
Something Slow
dac086, I don't think TEIN recommends using the rubber shim on the rear springs but I think I'm going to leave mine in anyways.
I just placed my order for a set of TEIN Super Streets for my 230 Coupe along with new upper mounts from MB so everything will be replaced with new parts only.
Keep posted!
I just placed my order for a set of TEIN Super Streets for my 230 Coupe along with new upper mounts from MB so everything will be replaced with new parts only.
Keep posted!
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 390
Likes: 1
From: San Diego
2003 c320
I have TIEN SS and also had noise issue when going over bumps or slow turns. Sounded like something needed lubrication and initially thought it was the sway bar bushings.
Turned out to be the squeeky rubber collars on top of the shocks getting stuck on the piston rod from dirt build up. Jacked the car up, gave the collars a few good ups and downs and rotations and problem fixed.
Turned out to be the squeeky rubber collars on top of the shocks getting stuck on the piston rod from dirt build up. Jacked the car up, gave the collars a few good ups and downs and rotations and problem fixed.
Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 181
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From: Laguna Niguel, Orange County
2006 C350 SS
Suspension Thread - Post Pics w/New Susp. & Different Ride Heights/Set-Ups
So I'm going to be ordering rims VERY soon here and dont my car to sit on the stock susp. for very long. I know with the AMG Sport package it has a nice ride height and is very comfortable as well....but honestly...what is the best way to go with the new suspension.
I guess this is the easiest way to put it..
I dont wana spend too much $$$ right now due to other ties w/ tattoos and buying other parts for my car but I would like my car to sit nicely on it's new rims!
CAN I DO JUST THE SPRINGS FOR BIT??? DOES ANYONE OUT THERE JUST HAVE SPRINGS CURRENTLY??? AND WHATS YOUR FEELINGS ON IT???
WHO OUT THERE HAS JUST NEW SPORT-LOWERING SPRINGS???
WHO HAS WHAT & WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON YOUR PERSONAL SET-UP???
ALSO- WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON JUST DOING THE WHEELS ON THE STOCK SUSPENSION???
(personally I think it looks a million times better dropped on wheel, however the AMG susp. is a nice height)
Any Opinion Would Help Right Now...I'm once again lost on what to do.
Thanks again in advance for the help guys...
I guess this is the easiest way to put it..
I dont wana spend too much $$$ right now due to other ties w/ tattoos and buying other parts for my car
but I would like my car to sit nicely on it's new rims!CAN I DO JUST THE SPRINGS FOR BIT??? DOES ANYONE OUT THERE JUST HAVE SPRINGS CURRENTLY??? AND WHATS YOUR FEELINGS ON IT???
WHO OUT THERE HAS JUST NEW SPORT-LOWERING SPRINGS???
WHO HAS WHAT & WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON YOUR PERSONAL SET-UP???
ALSO- WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON JUST DOING THE WHEELS ON THE STOCK SUSPENSION???
(personally I think it looks a million times better dropped on wheel, however the AMG susp. is a nice height)
Any Opinion Would Help Right Now...I'm once again lost on what to do.
Thanks again in advance for the help guys...
