E-Class (W123) 1976-1986: 240D, 280E, 300D, 300TD, 300CD

280TE self-leveling issues

Old Jul 21, 2011 | 12:52 PM
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1986 280TE
280TE self-leveling issues

1986 280TE with self-leveling rears suspension. Rear end rides too low and the struts thump and don't provide good support. I would like to convert to regular shocks, because OEM self-leveling struts are $375- APIECE! I read somewhere that Bilstein makes a shock that fits. Anyone know what I can do?
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Old Jul 23, 2011 | 01:14 PM
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2006 E320 CDI
Normal shocks work like poop on a 300TD. They are not made to dampen the extra 400lbs and any amount of load back there will make them perform even worse.

Unless the struts leak, they are not bad. You have a problem elsewhere in the system. Change the filter in the tank and check for flow through the system and make sure the level valve is connected to the rear sway bar.
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