Tokyo

I was asked to look at a friends Airmatic system on their 2003 e500. I just finished working on and resolving my 2011 GL450 Airmatic issues, so figured being armed with a little knowledge, I felt pretty good.

The problem - Front end has dropped and will not raise

What I've done to this point - hooked up my Autel DS808, which showed no faults to the Airmatic system. Level sensors were reading what i would have expected ~ -2.8 inches. Disconnected the tubing to the top of the strut and verified that air is coming out when actuated. This is telling me that the compressor is working and the block is sending air to the strut. Tried to force air directly into the strut did not see the vehicle rise...did this to both sides. When forcing air to the strut, there were two people in the area and they did not notice air blowing out anywhere. Just for kicks, I was able to raise and lower the rear end using the scanner.

Looking for any suggestions or ideas. I'm leaning on the struts are bad, but I would like to make sure I've crossed all T's and dotted all I's before suggesting ponying up the cash to replace the struts.

Thanks in advance

konigstiger

Could be internal solenoid.

Tokyo

Thanks for the PDF docs, they were quite helpful. Based on the info, I have one test in mind to confirm the y2 valve is faulty. If I do confirm the valve to be bad, does this require the entire strut to be replaced or can the valve be replaced? Even though this is not my vehicle, I just want to make sure the owner has all the information.

konigstiger

Strut needs replacement.

THE Rooster

Three words come to mind, "Arnott Conversion Kit"...

Bankroll

Either operate the valve with your scanner, or manual,(power up the valve), and air it up. Ohm out the valve solenoid if it doesn't click.