Anthony Mahone

? I have a 2004 CLK 500 209 I have already took the struts system out but I need to change the top part which means I need to compress the spring but I don't have a special tool to take the top part out if I was to take it to the dealer what's a fair price? Thanks for any information provided

Yidney

If you have the stut out, and just need strut mounts, don't go to the dealer. Any mechanic can do that. And a dealer might even refuse. But if you have the skill to remove the strut, go borrow a spring compressor from Auto Zone and do it yourself.

insame1

I almost agree with you Yideny but, I have used one of those to comperes a mb spring and it was very sketchy.

eteller

For about $20 you can buy a pair of compressors at Harbor Freight or Amazon. Nothing sketchy about it if done properly. Just do not point toward face Seriously do not point towards face.

Rudeney

I prefer to use a three-point compressor on these springs. Those are more expensive to buy (or rent) but they are certainly much more "confidence inspiring" when dealing with these large springs.

91ser

This will cost you about as much as a mechanic, and now you can always DIY!

Spring Compressor from Harbor Freight

I love mine and it paid for itself on my first job.

91ser

OO, and its MUCH safer than the two individual claws. HATE those tools!

Edit: eteller, get the above ones instead of the $20 ones. Not only is this a better and easier to use tool, its also much, much safer. Especially for an inexperienced user.

Yidney

That's actually a pretty clever design. Hadn't seen that before. Looks like that would be pretty safe.

91ser

Not only is it a really safe design, its also a single action design. So with the single bolt in the middle, it compresses the entire spring. With the two forks, you have to keep going back and forth to keep somewhat equal pressure. Takes a lot more times and effort, while also being less safe. Its just an all around better design.