Suspension DIY/spring compr. rental?

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Jul 24, 2013 | 07:19 PM
  #1  
So, I just took the plunge and ordered the full euro spring/pad set with Koni adjustables for my C43.

It looks pretty straightforward, but is there anything I need to watch for specifically that could be problematic?

And is anyone willing to lend/rent out a spring compressor tool? I'll pay a deposit or whatever you need to make sure you get it back.

Jason
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Jul 25, 2013 | 08:20 AM
  #2  
You need the right tool (Klann type compressor) otherwise you could loose a limb and even using the right one it remains dangerous. I know cause I nearly broke my thumb when the cup slipped off the spring. The spring shot away about 10 meters without hitting anything

Check here:
https://mbworld.org/forums/5172035-post29.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/5189228-post45.html
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Jul 25, 2013 | 11:50 AM
  #3  
Oh yeah, I'm very aware of the dangers of doing this, and want to make sure I get the cup/disc type compressor vs the fork "U" type.

Ah, yeah, you have the style I need. Do you rent it out by chance?
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Jul 25, 2013 | 07:16 PM
  #4  
Quote: Oh yeah, I'm very aware of the dangers of doing this, and want to make sure I get the cup/disc type compressor vs the fork "U" type.

Ah, yeah, you have the style I need. Do you rent it out by chance?

DRB is in Switzerland, with the shipping it might be cheaper to go buy one...

Here you can buy a Klann clone:
http://www.zdmak.com/wbstore/main.as...CTMP=1&LowCt=0
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Jul 25, 2013 | 07:35 PM
  #5  
I just upgraded my clk55 front struts/springs. I used a harbor freight clam-shell macphereson strut spring compressor. Very easy to use.

And these springs are no where near as knarly to deal with as the old domestics from the 80's.... with unsprung L of 2-3'.....!!!!!!! that was sketchy.

Just take your time and follow instructions..... OR you can just bring the macphereson strut/spring assy to your local tire shop and they will pull apart for you. GL.
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Jul 26, 2013 | 07:27 AM
  #6  
Quote: DRB is in Switzerland, with the shipping it might be cheaper to go buy one...

Here you can buy a Klann clone:
http://www.zdmak.com/wbstore/main.as...CTMP=1&LowCt=0
Woo that's pricey. I got mine on ebay for like, $180. I'd just get one of those, as mine works great, and it's a lot less hassle than trying to rent one from someone
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Jul 26, 2013 | 11:34 AM
  #7  
I think I'm just going to have the shop do the suspension when they do the control arm bushings. They have pretty great rates, and it'll cost about 350-400 for the whole job.

This way I can keep focused on detailing the paint still.
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Jul 26, 2013 | 05:31 PM
  #8  
too bad you're up in OR otherwise i could have helped you at my shop in north hollywood... i have all the tools for mercedes including the one to do the control arm bushings...
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Jul 26, 2013 | 06:08 PM
  #9  
fredtga, ugh, that sucks. how hard is the job really? how dangerous for both suspension and bushings?

Would you rent the tools out for a deposit?
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Jul 27, 2013 | 12:49 AM
  #10  
Quote: fredtga, ugh, that sucks. how hard is the job really? how dangerous for both suspension and bushings?

Would you rent the tools out for a deposit?
I just completed my drop using an equivalent spring compressor by Koch Tools. I purchased it on Ebay and it worked like a charm. The shipping may be pricey as it has some weight to it. I can ship from Blaine, WA if you're interested?

Cheers
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Jul 29, 2013 | 11:32 AM
  #11  
nkctb7, that's pretty close, would you mind checking shipping to 97210? Even if it's a bit pricey, likely still less than buying one or paying labor to have it done. Do you have the U shaped kind or the O disc shaped kind? I'd prefer the disc shaped as it looks safer.

Was under the car looking at everything yesterday, and luckily it all looks pretty straightforward.

Any chance you have the bushing press as well? =)
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Jul 29, 2013 | 08:58 PM
  #12  
Quote: nkctb7, that's pretty close, would you mind checking shipping to 97210? Even if it's a bit pricey, likely still less than buying one or paying labor to have it done. Do you have the U shaped kind or the O disc shaped kind? I'd prefer the disc shaped as it looks safer.

Was under the car looking at everything yesterday, and luckily it all looks pretty straightforward.

Any chance you have the bushing press as well? =)
The job isn't too difficult but, I personally found the front to be much easier to change out. I have the disc compressor and it looks identical to the Mercedes compressor. I will look into the shipping cost sometime this week and get back to you.

Cheers
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Jul 30, 2013 | 01:17 PM
  #13  
Ok,thanks man!
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Aug 5, 2013 | 07:18 PM
  #14  
So, I'm taking it in for some other things on Wednesday, going to have them do the suspension while it's in there.
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May 19, 2016 | 03:05 AM
  #15  
Do you still have a shop in North Hollywood?
Quote: too bad you're up in OR otherwise i could have helped you at my shop in north hollywood... i have all the tools for mercedes including the one to do the control arm bushings...
I'm wondering as I have a full suspension rebuild kit, and 4 shocks and springs on their way... I'd definitely be willing to compensate you for borrowing/renting your compressor, and would really appreciate it!
Thank you in advance,
-Tom
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