mbgator

So this week I finally had time to tackle the front suspension. Control arms (upper and lower), struts, strut bearings and brakes. Amazing how, over the thousands of miles (130,000) that ride and handling slowly deteriorated without being too obvious. When a major mechanical component breaks, you are immediately aware, but suspension components simply grow weak without drama.
So, all proper tools assembled, floor jacks (3) and jack stands, fresh pot of coffee - how hard can this be? Right. 7 hours later I am wiping down tools, chewing ibuprofen and asking why I didn't take this to a specialist. I got the job done, ride, braking and handling restored, but this is one job that I hope never to do again.
All parts from FCP Euro and repairs accomplished after several viewings of their excellent YouTube videos, along with Rudney's original write up.

Rudeney

I totally agree about the gradual decline in ride and handling quality. If you want to maintain that new car feel, you really need to do this every 50K miles. Congrats on a job well done. And every time you think about taking it to a shop for work, remember how much money you saved for 7 hours of your times. You also got some exercise and didn't even have to pay for a gym membership!

mbgator

No, didn't have to pay for gym membership, but will spend that and more on massage therapy lol

labguy

Great job mbgator!

So, what is this "write up" that you speak of?

FCPEuro

60k miles of NYC roads totally obliterated the suspension on our CLK, the new suspension woke the car up in an indescribable way... I miss that car.

--Kyle

labguy

Rodney,

I am wondering if I need to freshen up my suspension as well. My car has 103K miles. The roads I drive on are primarily very good; not to say I have not hit the occasional pot hole or two. I have put the last 75K miles on it myself and have not noticed any degradation of performance. I plan to keep the car another 5 years at least. What are your thoughts?

Thanks,
Mark

insame1

If this work has not been done to the car yet it is safe to say you should proceed.

Rudeney

+1 - yes at the mileage, you need so freshen the suspension.

labguy

Thanks insame and Rodney. I have a coworker that is very handy with cars and has reviewed the youtube videos mentioned. A "write up" from Rodney was mentioned in this thread as well. Can you link/post that in a reply please? I will need to order the parts.
Any recommendations on manufacturer?
Any recommendation on distributor for best customer service/prices? FCP Euro was mentioned.

Yidney

Get Lemforder parts. They are the OEM maker for MB. Much cheaper if they say Lemforder on them and not MB, but are the same part. Several online sources. I tend to buy most everything from Pelican Parts.

insame1

You really cant beat this https://www.fcpeuro.com/page/lifetime-guarantee

Rudeney

Actually, I just started the thread - user Ambit added the excellent pictorial:

https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...trol-arms.html

labguy

Thanks Rodney. I read the whole thing.

2 more questions:

1. FCP Euro is much cheaper than Pelican. But pelican recommends buying 2 Strut Mounting kits for $25.00/each. Do I need that?
2. Also, my mechanic is recommending that I replace the tie rods. I can get a Lemforder Tie Rod Service kit from FCP Euro for $107.00. Do you think it worth it to replace?

Thanks Mark

Rudeney

I'm not sure what the mounting kits are - I thought the struts came with new bolts and washers, but I can't remember for certain. You might as well do tie rod ends, too. The inner requires a tool, but most auto parts shops loan that for free.

waveterrorist

super secret>>>pipe wrench

Rudeney

If you can get a wrench in there. I have not done the W209's inner tie rods, but one car (maybe a W211?) there was not enough room to get a wrench in place so you have to use a special tool that is basically a very large, very "deep" socket.

supamoto

W209 C240 avantgard 2002
Hello, has anyone used the KONI STR shock and spring kit on an Avantgard with stock sport suspension?
The advert says
"Lowers Front by 40mm, and Rear by 40mm
The amount of lowering will be reduced on vehicles fitted with original (OEM) sport suspension.
The lowering of the front axle depends on the vehicle specification and weight of the engine"
So will it make my car (OEM sport suspension) sit higher? Has anyone seen the result?