ML500 air suspension question.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 701
Likes: 129
From: NE OHIO
1998 SL500,2011 GL550,2009 ML350,past 1995 E320 Cabrio ,2005 ML500,2006 ML500,1996 SL500,1972 280SEL
ML500 air suspension question.
I just bought this 2006 knowing it had air suspension problems . 85k miles . I replace the rear bags quickly and the compressor with new relay.. using AMK compressor and Arnott rear bags. Ok now the question ... I rebuilt one front and put it back on.... it was NOT a one man job getting it out. It felt almost like we were going to have to remove the front drive axle??? Barely cleared ... it is possible the lift need to go higher but I don’t think the A arm could go lower. Ok any advice will help me on the last air strut in front ?
I got some decent pricing on the parts:
$280 AMK compressor
$250 Rear Arnott bags for both
$240 a piece for fronts.
Thanks for any help. Bill
I got some decent pricing on the parts:
$280 AMK compressor
$250 Rear Arnott bags for both
$240 a piece for fronts.
Thanks for any help. Bill
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 31
Likes: 3
From: Melbourne Australia
2008 ML320 CDI with every option code including Offroad pack, 1978 450SEL
I have changed my ML320 front struts over a dozen times (long story around defective parts).
You need to simultaneously insert a long bar through the "U" in the strut to compress it, whilst pushing down with your foot on the A-arm. If you have the Offroad package, you will need to remove the bash plate to allow the A-arm to drop sufficiently. Ensure you only have one of the three upper strut nuts installed, and leave it loose.
The combination of these actions allows plenty of room to lift it over the driveshaft.
You need to simultaneously insert a long bar through the "U" in the strut to compress it, whilst pushing down with your foot on the A-arm. If you have the Offroad package, you will need to remove the bash plate to allow the A-arm to drop sufficiently. Ensure you only have one of the three upper strut nuts installed, and leave it loose.
The combination of these actions allows plenty of room to lift it over the driveshaft.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 31
Likes: 3
From: Melbourne Australia
2008 ML320 CDI with every option code including Offroad pack, 1978 450SEL
Also, can you please list the source for your parts? I need a set of rear bags...
PM me if you'd rather not share.
PM me if you'd rather not share.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 31
Likes: 3
From: Melbourne Australia
2008 ML320 CDI with every option code including Offroad pack, 1978 450SEL
For the benefit of others.
OP has the offroad package fitted - same as mine.
For cars fitted with the offroad package, the engine bash plate must be loosened or removed to allow the A-arm to drop down far enough, so that the strut clears the driveshaft. The vehicle in the Arnott's Youtube video does not have the offroad package fitted and they make it look so easy!
OP has the offroad package fitted - same as mine.
For cars fitted with the offroad package, the engine bash plate must be loosened or removed to allow the A-arm to drop down far enough, so that the strut clears the driveshaft. The vehicle in the Arnott's Youtube video does not have the offroad package fitted and they make it look so easy!
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 701
Likes: 129
From: NE OHIO
1998 SL500,2011 GL550,2009 ML350,past 1995 E320 Cabrio ,2005 ML500,2006 ML500,1996 SL500,1972 280SEL
U89 Off-road Body package ?
I found the Vin build sheet. Would the U89 off road body package be the same ? I will be under the ML in the morning . I am also going to attempt the dreaded OEM hitch and wiring mess this week.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 701
Likes: 129
From: NE OHIO
1998 SL500,2011 GL550,2009 ML350,past 1995 E320 Cabrio ,2005 ML500,2006 ML500,1996 SL500,1972 280SEL
2nd attempt much better
Ok I am answering my own question .. I did not have the vehicle high enough on the lift for the first front air bag . Today I kept it much higher and did not need the pry bar just stepping on the brake rotor was enough to get the needed clearance. Ok hopefully 4 new Arnott bags will last years... the original Bilsteins lasted 12 years. I did notice the rubber is much thicker on the Bilsteins vs the Arnotts
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Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2020
Posts: 29
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From: Melbourne Victoria Australia
ML350
Welcome matudo. I'm also in Australia, have been on this site for a short time and have found it really useful. Mine is a ML350 Diesel 2011, great vehicle but has its issues 
. I see you've just joined the forum. Welcome!
. I see you've just joined the forum. Welcome!
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Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 701
Likes: 129
From: NE OHIO
1998 SL500,2011 GL550,2009 ML350,past 1995 E320 Cabrio ,2005 ML500,2006 ML500,1996 SL500,1972 280SEL
