SL/R230: LOWERING LINKS ?
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 60
Likes: 6
From: Palm City, Florida
2015 MB S550 Coupe, 2018 Carrera T, Ford F150
I just realized that I've been posting in this thread under 2 names: biophase = neomonkey Hope I didn't confuse anyone. My work computer and home computer cookies are different so I log in as different people. And since I have it autologin I never noticed it until right now.
Ah, mystery solved. I thought the posts were strangely similar.
Well, I'm waiting for the links to arrive and appreciate the insight that you, John, and especially Paul (M4XM1l1ON) have provided. Once done, I'll let you know how it went. In the meantime, thanks.
Ah, mystery solved. I thought the posts were strangely similar.
Well, I'm waiting for the links to arrive and appreciate the insight that you, John, and especially Paul (M4XM1l1ON) have provided. Once done, I'll let you know how it went. In the meantime, thanks.
Super Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 644
Likes: 0
From: In a VAN down by the river
His wifes head hard into the headboard nightly!!
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 60
Likes: 6
From: Palm City, Florida
2015 MB S550 Coupe, 2018 Carrera T, Ford F150
Just to let everyone who was involved know that the links arrived yesterday in South Florida from British Columbia just two business days after they were ordered standard shipping. Excellent service, thanks John.
I was very careful setting the links, 4.5mm longer front and 6mm shorter rear, before putting them on. I calculated that would lower the car about 5/8" in the front and 3/4" in the rear and that's exactly how it came out. The wheelwells front and rear are filled pretty much equally. The distance from ground to wheelwell opening is 26 1/8", +/-1/16", at all four corners. I used this setting so that if I raise the car to stage 1 (one indicator light on console switch) the car will return to pretty much the factory setting. Stage 2 gives an additional 10mm, good to clear high car stops and curbs.
The only advantage I can determine for using the Renntech module is that it has some safeguards built in to prevent going too low, specifically when the automatic speed activated lowering is activated. I seriously considered it since Renntech's shop is just 25 miles from my home. I decided it's preferable to use this mechanical solution because the links are easily accessible and adjusted, or removed, whatever the case may be. And it's about $1400 cheaper if installation is included. The module, on the other hand, is located behind the dashboard and modification of existing wiring is needed. Once set, it's not as easy to get to and adjust.
So, like most everyone else who has been commenting, I am a satisfied customer and a believer that the links are the best way to go. They are relatively expensive but meticulously constructed, a perfect fitment, and should last the life of the car without any issues. Now if I can help anyone with their decision or installation, I would be pleased to return the favors that I have received.
I was very careful setting the links, 4.5mm longer front and 6mm shorter rear, before putting them on. I calculated that would lower the car about 5/8" in the front and 3/4" in the rear and that's exactly how it came out. The wheelwells front and rear are filled pretty much equally. The distance from ground to wheelwell opening is 26 1/8", +/-1/16", at all four corners. I used this setting so that if I raise the car to stage 1 (one indicator light on console switch) the car will return to pretty much the factory setting. Stage 2 gives an additional 10mm, good to clear high car stops and curbs.
The only advantage I can determine for using the Renntech module is that it has some safeguards built in to prevent going too low, specifically when the automatic speed activated lowering is activated. I seriously considered it since Renntech's shop is just 25 miles from my home. I decided it's preferable to use this mechanical solution because the links are easily accessible and adjusted, or removed, whatever the case may be. And it's about $1400 cheaper if installation is included. The module, on the other hand, is located behind the dashboard and modification of existing wiring is needed. Once set, it's not as easy to get to and adjust.
So, like most everyone else who has been commenting, I am a satisfied customer and a believer that the links are the best way to go. They are relatively expensive but meticulously constructed, a perfect fitment, and should last the life of the car without any issues. Now if I can help anyone with their decision or installation, I would be pleased to return the favors that I have received.
Super Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 644
Likes: 0
From: In a VAN down by the river
His wifes head hard into the headboard nightly!!
Just to let everyone who was involved know that the links arrived yesterday in South Florida from British Columbia just two business days after they were ordered standard shipping. Excellent service, thanks John.
I was very careful setting the links, 4.5mm longer front and 6mm shorter rear, before putting them on. I calculated that would lower the car about 5/8" in the front and 3/4" in the rear and that's exactly how it came out. The wheelwells front and rear are filled pretty much equally. The distance from ground to wheelwell opening is 26 1/8", +/-1/16", at all four corners. I used this setting so that if I raise the car to stage 1 (one indicator light on console switch) the car will return to pretty much the factory setting. Stage 2 gives an additional 10mm, good to clear high car stops and curbs.
The only advantage I can determine for using the Renntech module is that it has some safeguards built in to prevent going too low, specifically when the automatic speed activated lowering is activated. I seriously considered it since Renntech's shop is just 25 miles from my home. I decided it's preferable to use this mechanical solution because the links are easily accessible and adjusted, or removed, whatever the case may be. And it's about $1400 cheaper if installation is included. The module, on the other hand, is located behind the dashboard and modification of existing wiring is needed. Once set, it's not as easy to get to and adjust.
So, like most everyone else who has been commenting, I am a satisfied customer and a believer that the links are the best way to go. They are relatively expensive but meticulously constructed, a perfect fitment, and should last the life of the car without any issues. Now if I can help anyone with their decision or installation, I would be pleased to return the favors that I have received.
I was very careful setting the links, 4.5mm longer front and 6mm shorter rear, before putting them on. I calculated that would lower the car about 5/8" in the front and 3/4" in the rear and that's exactly how it came out. The wheelwells front and rear are filled pretty much equally. The distance from ground to wheelwell opening is 26 1/8", +/-1/16", at all four corners. I used this setting so that if I raise the car to stage 1 (one indicator light on console switch) the car will return to pretty much the factory setting. Stage 2 gives an additional 10mm, good to clear high car stops and curbs.
The only advantage I can determine for using the Renntech module is that it has some safeguards built in to prevent going too low, specifically when the automatic speed activated lowering is activated. I seriously considered it since Renntech's shop is just 25 miles from my home. I decided it's preferable to use this mechanical solution because the links are easily accessible and adjusted, or removed, whatever the case may be. And it's about $1400 cheaper if installation is included. The module, on the other hand, is located behind the dashboard and modification of existing wiring is needed. Once set, it's not as easy to get to and adjust.
So, like most everyone else who has been commenting, I am a satisfied customer and a believer that the links are the best way to go. They are relatively expensive but meticulously constructed, a perfect fitment, and should last the life of the car without any issues. Now if I can help anyone with their decision or installation, I would be pleased to return the favors that I have received.
super PLEASED!!!
Last edited by VendettaMB; May 27, 2009 at 09:16 PM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,746
Likes: 1
BMW F02 (750Li) F10 (550i)
i'm suprised you think they were expensive. I thought it was chea..i have had many cars but never have i had one lowered so well, easily, for so cheap. My ride is the same and i cant beleive that i have my sl500 lowered(w/labour..by JOHN) with a great ride for 450CDN
super PLEASED!!!
super PLEASED!!!
well stated !!
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 69
Likes: 0
03 SL500
i'm suprised you think they were expensive. I thought it was cheap..i have had many cars but never have i had one lowered so well, easily, for so cheap. My ride is the same and i cant beleive that i have my sl500 lowered(w/labour..by JOHN) with a great ride for 450CDN
super PLEASED!!!
super PLEASED!!!
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Senior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 413
Likes: 2
From: Oklahoma
SLK55AMG, SL600
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 60
Likes: 6
From: Palm City, Florida
2015 MB S550 Coupe, 2018 Carrera T, Ford F150
I'm suprised you think they were expensive. I thought it was cheap..i have had many cars but never have i had one lowered so well, easily, for so cheap. My ride is the same and i cant beleive that i have my sl500 lowered(w/labour..by JOHN) with a great ride for 450CDN
well stated !!
This is real cheap!! Consider that for any other car you'd pay $300+ just for the springs. Then you need to get someone to install it.
VENDETTA and BIOPHASE: I think you may have focused on two words out of context. I did not say they were overpriced. I chose my words carefully. I said they were relatively expensive. Meaning relative to the component cost without considering the development costs. I suppose I could have chosen my words better.
In this thread there are posts from an individual who made his own for less than $50 in parts cost. He said, without recrimination, that he didn't wish to spend over $300 for something that cost so little to make.
M4XMILION: You said that you were looking into adapting the stock links that fit other models, but are longer than those used on the SL, from a MB dealer's parts department because they are just $20. That doesn't sound like someone who hasn't considered the higher cost of adjustable links and whether they are worth it.
I thought it was obvious from my entire post that I agree they are well worth the price and I apologize if my post was interpreted otherwise. I hope that others who may have read it understood that I am grateful that this product is available and that I enthusiastically endorse it.
Opposing viewpoints are always welcome and they are what make discussion forums discussion forums. I hope I have cleared up any misconceptions. Thank you all again. If not for the forum and your posts I would have not even known the links exist.
Enough said, let's go back to talking about cars.
well stated !!
This is real cheap!! Consider that for any other car you'd pay $300+ just for the springs. Then you need to get someone to install it.
VENDETTA and BIOPHASE: I think you may have focused on two words out of context. I did not say they were overpriced. I chose my words carefully. I said they were relatively expensive. Meaning relative to the component cost without considering the development costs. I suppose I could have chosen my words better.
In this thread there are posts from an individual who made his own for less than $50 in parts cost. He said, without recrimination, that he didn't wish to spend over $300 for something that cost so little to make.
M4XMILION: You said that you were looking into adapting the stock links that fit other models, but are longer than those used on the SL, from a MB dealer's parts department because they are just $20. That doesn't sound like someone who hasn't considered the higher cost of adjustable links and whether they are worth it.
I thought it was obvious from my entire post that I agree they are well worth the price and I apologize if my post was interpreted otherwise. I hope that others who may have read it understood that I am grateful that this product is available and that I enthusiastically endorse it.
Opposing viewpoints are always welcome and they are what make discussion forums discussion forums. I hope I have cleared up any misconceptions. Thank you all again. If not for the forum and your posts I would have not even known the links exist.
Enough said, let's go back to talking about cars.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,746
Likes: 1
BMW F02 (750Li) F10 (550i)
Whats up Ray . the links were different anyway . and sure is the best and cheapest way of lowering our cars .
with you permission could i post the some of the pics you sent me on here ?
with you permission could i post the some of the pics you sent me on here ?
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 60
Likes: 6
From: Palm City, Florida
2015 MB S550 Coupe, 2018 Carrera T, Ford F150
Sure Paul. Thanks for asking. They're not very good, but if anyone is interested I'll take better pix out of the garage as soon as it stops raining. Sorry the idea didn't work out but it was a worthwhile attempt.
Super Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 644
Likes: 0
From: In a VAN down by the river
His wifes head hard into the headboard nightly!!
I'm suprised you think they were expensive. I thought it was cheap..i have had many cars but never have i had one lowered so well, easily, for so cheap. My ride is the same and i cant beleive that i have my sl500 lowered(w/labour..by JOHN) with a great ride for 450CDN
well stated !!
This is real cheap!! Consider that for any other car you'd pay $300+ just for the springs. Then you need to get someone to install it.
VENDETTA and BIOPHASE: I think you may have focused on two words out of context. I did not say they were overpriced. I chose my words carefully. I said they were relatively expensive. Meaning relative to the component cost without considering the development costs. I suppose I could have chosen my words better.
In this thread there are posts from an individual who made his own for less than $50 in parts cost. He said, without recrimination, that he didn't wish to spend over $300 for something that cost so little to make.
M4XMILION: You said that you were looking into adapting the stock links that fit other models, but are longer than those used on the SL, from a MB dealer's parts department because they are just $20. That doesn't sound like someone who hasn't considered the higher cost of adjustable links and whether they are worth it.
I thought it was obvious from my entire post that I agree they are well worth the price and I apologize if my post was interpreted otherwise. I hope that others who may have read it understood that I am grateful that this product is available and that I enthusiastically endorse it.
Opposing viewpoints are always welcome and they are what make discussion forums discussion forums. I hope I have cleared up any misconceptions. Thank you all again. If not for the forum and your posts I would have not even known the links exist.
Enough said, let's go back to talking about cars.
well stated !!
This is real cheap!! Consider that for any other car you'd pay $300+ just for the springs. Then you need to get someone to install it.
VENDETTA and BIOPHASE: I think you may have focused on two words out of context. I did not say they were overpriced. I chose my words carefully. I said they were relatively expensive. Meaning relative to the component cost without considering the development costs. I suppose I could have chosen my words better.
In this thread there are posts from an individual who made his own for less than $50 in parts cost. He said, without recrimination, that he didn't wish to spend over $300 for something that cost so little to make.
M4XMILION: You said that you were looking into adapting the stock links that fit other models, but are longer than those used on the SL, from a MB dealer's parts department because they are just $20. That doesn't sound like someone who hasn't considered the higher cost of adjustable links and whether they are worth it.
I thought it was obvious from my entire post that I agree they are well worth the price and I apologize if my post was interpreted otherwise. I hope that others who may have read it understood that I am grateful that this product is available and that I enthusiastically endorse it.
Opposing viewpoints are always welcome and they are what make discussion forums discussion forums. I hope I have cleared up any misconceptions. Thank you all again. If not for the forum and your posts I would have not even known the links exist.
Enough said, let's go back to talking about cars.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 70
Likes: 0
Sl500R
Hey Guys, I just sold my SL500(R230) and I kept the links. So if anybody wants them they are up for sale. They have about 300miles on them, I'll sell for 250$ SHIPPED!!!
PM me, or email me
nickdfg@gmail.com
PM me, or email me
nickdfg@gmail.com
SOLD!!!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 2,630
Likes: 9
From: Chicago
W215 V12TT Build by Speedriven, W221 S550 4Matic
Ok got my links today and got a chance to put them on the car. However with my luck I did something wrong. I think.
I followed the instructions that came with the links
I decided to go ahead and drop the car really low which I did and everything went as planned
Put the links on hit the raise button and the car slammed down. OK
I adjusted the car to where I would want it while driving.
Everytime I drive the car lifts in the front is this normal??? When I come to a dead stop it rests down by itself. Is this normal? I never noticed this driving the car on stock links.
Should I be driving in ABC mode? what does it do?? The raise button only raises the front end correct?
Im confused and need some help.
I followed the instructions that came with the links
I decided to go ahead and drop the car really low which I did and everything went as planned
Put the links on hit the raise button and the car slammed down. OK
I adjusted the car to where I would want it while driving.
Everytime I drive the car lifts in the front is this normal??? When I come to a dead stop it rests down by itself. Is this normal? I never noticed this driving the car on stock links.
Should I be driving in ABC mode? what does it do?? The raise button only raises the front end correct?
Im confused and need some help.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 70
Likes: 0
Sl500R
Ok got my links today and got a chance to put them on the car. However with my luck I did something wrong. I think.
I followed the instructions that came with the links
I decided to go ahead and drop the car really low which I did and everything went as planned
Put the links on hit the raise button and the car slammed down. OK
I adjusted the car to where I would want it while driving.
Everytime I drive the car lifts in the front is this normal??? When I come to a dead stop it rests down by itself. Is this normal? I never noticed this driving the car on stock links.
Should I be driving in ABC mode? what does it do?? The raise button only raises the front end correct?
Im confused and need some help.
I followed the instructions that came with the links
I decided to go ahead and drop the car really low which I did and everything went as planned
Put the links on hit the raise button and the car slammed down. OK
I adjusted the car to where I would want it while driving.
Everytime I drive the car lifts in the front is this normal??? When I come to a dead stop it rests down by itself. Is this normal? I never noticed this driving the car on stock links.
Should I be driving in ABC mode? what does it do?? The raise button only raises the front end correct?
Im confused and need some help.
Also, once you've installed & adjusted ur links, be sure to raise the car completely. (Press the raise button twice) then drop it(press it a 3rd time.
Hope this helps
Super Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 644
Likes: 0
From: In a VAN down by the river
His wifes head hard into the headboard nightly!!
the car raises with the button FRONT AND BACK. I have my lowered, but it rubs if not raised at all when i turn.so i drive with the butto pressed 1x(1 light on) when i park i lowered it back down so it looks better
i also have the SPORT on so it stiffens the ride. I will be having ohn from Adjutableairride re- adjust it alll when in get m new wheels but that wont be for a bit.
i also have the SPORT on so it stiffens the ride. I will be having ohn from Adjutableairride re- adjust it alll when in get m new wheels but that wont be for a bit.
