SL/R230: ABC to Coilovers conversion: The Ultimate FAQ
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 17
Likes: 8
SL500
2005 SL500 Pump failed at 42,000 miles I had the Strutmaster kit installed with the light fix module 6 months ago and am very pleased with the ride. It cost what the pump installation would have been. No more ABC worries, you do however realize that this is a heavy car when riding on coil over oil struts.
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 62
Likes: 10
From: England
R230 SL500 W211 E220
So it happened to me. 2003 SL500 with only 65k on it. The pressure hose behind the front drivers tire blew out, which then fried the pump.
The cost to fix that isn't too bad, but now I see the rear struts are starting to leak fluid. Sounds like the cost to replace each one of those is $3700 each. Does that sound right??
Either way, it's going to add up close to $10k. And that's not to say the other struts won't leak or other expensive probs.
The car is new to me and I really like it and want to keep it.
If you were me, what would you do?
And if you suggest installing a kit, which one(in 2020) is the best for general driving and adjustablity?
Thanks all for you input. Greg
The cost to fix that isn't too bad, but now I see the rear struts are starting to leak fluid. Sounds like the cost to replace each one of those is $3700 each. Does that sound right??
Either way, it's going to add up close to $10k. And that's not to say the other struts won't leak or other expensive probs.
The car is new to me and I really like it and want to keep it.
If you were me, what would you do?
And if you suggest installing a kit, which one(in 2020) is the best for general driving and adjustablity?
Thanks all for you input. Greg
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 17
Likes: 8
SL500
I'll say this then I'll leave it alone. I totally enjoy my 2005 SL, I've wanted one since seeing the first in 1954. I'm a retired service technician and all I want to do is drive my SL on nice days and enjoy. I'm not looking for a diy project, I don't want a hobie playing with any car I just want to drive it and enjoy it. The second ABC failure drove me to a coil over replacement and I do not regret it! I take the car everywhere without the worry of the ABC leaving me waiting on a tow truck. So cost and reliability was what drove me to Coil overs.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 406
Likes: 137
From: Houston, TX
2005 SL600
I'll say this then I'll leave it alone. I totally enjoy my 2005 SL, I've wanted one since seeing the first in 1954. I'm a retired service technician and all I want to do is drive my SL on nice days and enjoy. I'm not looking for a diy project, I don't want a hobie playing with any car I just want to drive it and enjoy it. The second ABC failure drove me to a coil over replacement and I do not regret it! I take the car everywhere without the worry of the ABC leaving me waiting on a tow truck. So cost and reliability was what drove me to Coil overs.
I've got an SL600, ABC is OK for now but I'm planning on going with a VVK kit in the near future.
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Minneapolis Area
2003 SL500
Thanks again everyone. I'm starting to see a trend! I'm guessing the more these cars go down in value(I picked mine up for $11K this year) the more likely it is to swap out the ABC system, if only because these (ongoing)repairs can cost almost as much as it's worth pretty soon. I'm leaning towards the swap out. Will decide by tomorrow.
In the meantime I've found a couple viable options:https://rebuildmastertech.com/merced...onversion-kit/
Though this kit specs 2007-2012 model year. I need to contact them to see if it'll fit a 2003.
or the VVK kit, which I'm still trying to find a link to that particular kit. Anyone know it??
In the meantime I've found a couple viable options:https://rebuildmastertech.com/merced...onversion-kit/
Though this kit specs 2007-2012 model year. I need to contact them to see if it'll fit a 2003.
or the VVK kit, which I'm still trying to find a link to that particular kit. Anyone know it??
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Minneapolis Area
2003 SL500
found the VVK product; https://rebuildmastertech.com/merced...onversion-kit/
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 448
Likes: 48
From: Europe, but from Norway
89 SL500 Silver ,97 SL500 Carlsson 04 Mercedes SL55 AMG , 07 Mercedes SL55 AMG convertedBlack series
So it happened to me. 2003 SL500 with only 65k on it. The pressure hose behind the front drivers tire blew out, which then fried the pump.
The cost to fix that isn't too bad, but now I see the rear struts are starting to leak fluid. Sounds like the cost to replace each one of those is $3700 each. Does that sound right??
Either way, it's going to add up close to $10k. And that's not to say the other struts won't leak or other expensive probs.
The car is new to me and I really like it and want to keep it.
If you were me, what would you do?
And if you suggest installing a kit, which one(in 2020) is the best for general driving and adjustablity?
Thanks all for you input. Greg
The cost to fix that isn't too bad, but now I see the rear struts are starting to leak fluid. Sounds like the cost to replace each one of those is $3700 each. Does that sound right??
Either way, it's going to add up close to $10k. And that's not to say the other struts won't leak or other expensive probs.
The car is new to me and I really like it and want to keep it.
If you were me, what would you do?
And if you suggest installing a kit, which one(in 2020) is the best for general driving and adjustablity?
Thanks all for you input. Greg
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Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 406
Likes: 137
From: Houston, TX
2005 SL600
found the VVK product; https://rebuildmastertech.com/merced...onversion-kit/
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 62
Likes: 10
From: England
R230 SL500 W211 E220
I'm not sure how it is in UK for doing the coilover conversion. I've done mine but all the people i've spoken to are in the States. Possibly a lot of people opt for the sl350 which has springs & antiroll bars.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 502
Likes: 145
From: Tampa Bay, FL
2014 E350 Wagon, 2009 SL550 no ABC
@MNGregory - I've used CEIKA multi adjustable coil over struts, description of the installation process is below (similar installation applies if you choose other strut brands). Note the way I came up for doing the rear struts - much simpler than what youTube videos, Mercedes and struts manufacturers recommend/show on YouTube. I'm very happy with the results. Replacing of the pump I would only do if the pump is totally dead, otherwise I would just loop it back as described to save a lot of time swapping the pumps. BTW, @Colinporter - CEIKA shipping price is the same to anywhere in the world (including UK).
https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...er-struts.html
For anti roll/sway bars I've also bought used SL350 in Europe, but have not installed them yet - after driving the car for a number of months I don't see how I would want any changes to handling (including rolling in turns). But that was after several adjustments to set the height, firmness and rebound of the struts. Now I prefer the handling to ABC, but again after the adjustments - those are quick and easy and make a huge difference. So I would be concerned about non-adjustable shocks - maybe they are set perfectly for you, or maybe not. Rebound seems the most important - just turning the knob on the strut top with your fingers, changes the car from very bouncy/jumpy/unstable at one end to driving like on rails at the other.
I have used the following parts:
1) CEIKA 1M coilovers at https://us.ceika-store.com/ with dual springs front and back, pillowtops and camber plates, cost $1216.00 (including 5% discount with coupon CEIKAR230SL ). I sold the used ABC struts to strut company Arnott for a 4*$300 = $1200 , Arnott sents pre-paid shipping labels. Net struts cost $16.00 (prices, discounts and Arnott core purchases are not guaranteed for the future of course). Note that many strut sellers add $1200 to the price unless you return old struts, so you will pay more than $16.00 for the 4 struts. Here you sell old broken struts for $1200 which is about the same as you pay for new coil overs including shipping.
2) Sway bars – as discussed above
3) Loopback hose for the ABC/Power steering pump. I’ve actually bought a R220 (S500) pump as they are cheap and apparently fit. But then I noticed that removal of the original tandem pump is complex and a lot of work. As I like to keep things simple I applied a loopback and kept the tandem (description in the link above). I studied many ways to do it and found a very simple way which needs just one cut and 4ft of ½” internal diameter hose and one hose clamp. The hose needs to handle Mercedes hydraulic fluid at LOW pressure and be very flexible I’m using Derale 15701 Transmission/Engine Oil Hose ($22 on Amazon for 5 ft) .
4) Plugs for the disconnected strut connectors which I left in the car, to make the whole process fully reversible if needed. (Details in the link above)
5) Optionally ABC lights fix module, but I have decided to re-program the car into non-ABC instead, which only takes a few minutes (steps in the link above)
Good luck with whatever option people prefer
https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...er-struts.html
For anti roll/sway bars I've also bought used SL350 in Europe, but have not installed them yet - after driving the car for a number of months I don't see how I would want any changes to handling (including rolling in turns). But that was after several adjustments to set the height, firmness and rebound of the struts. Now I prefer the handling to ABC, but again after the adjustments - those are quick and easy and make a huge difference. So I would be concerned about non-adjustable shocks - maybe they are set perfectly for you, or maybe not. Rebound seems the most important - just turning the knob on the strut top with your fingers, changes the car from very bouncy/jumpy/unstable at one end to driving like on rails at the other.
I have used the following parts:
1) CEIKA 1M coilovers at https://us.ceika-store.com/ with dual springs front and back, pillowtops and camber plates, cost $1216.00 (including 5% discount with coupon CEIKAR230SL ). I sold the used ABC struts to strut company Arnott for a 4*$300 = $1200 , Arnott sents pre-paid shipping labels. Net struts cost $16.00 (prices, discounts and Arnott core purchases are not guaranteed for the future of course). Note that many strut sellers add $1200 to the price unless you return old struts, so you will pay more than $16.00 for the 4 struts. Here you sell old broken struts for $1200 which is about the same as you pay for new coil overs including shipping.
2) Sway bars – as discussed above
3) Loopback hose for the ABC/Power steering pump. I’ve actually bought a R220 (S500) pump as they are cheap and apparently fit. But then I noticed that removal of the original tandem pump is complex and a lot of work. As I like to keep things simple I applied a loopback and kept the tandem (description in the link above). I studied many ways to do it and found a very simple way which needs just one cut and 4ft of ½” internal diameter hose and one hose clamp. The hose needs to handle Mercedes hydraulic fluid at LOW pressure and be very flexible I’m using Derale 15701 Transmission/Engine Oil Hose ($22 on Amazon for 5 ft) .
4) Plugs for the disconnected strut connectors which I left in the car, to make the whole process fully reversible if needed. (Details in the link above)
5) Optionally ABC lights fix module, but I have decided to re-program the car into non-ABC instead, which only takes a few minutes (steps in the link above)
Good luck with whatever option people prefer
Last edited by George993; Jul 16, 2020 at 09:35 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 502
Likes: 145
From: Tampa Bay, FL
2014 E350 Wagon, 2009 SL550 no ABC
And those who are still using ABC - I would strongly recommend replacing all of the pulsation dampers/accumulators/spheres in the car as a preventive maintenance.
After living with ABC for a few years and studying it I've concluded that those parts can be the main reason for hose ruptures - as hydraulic fluid pressure suddenly increases and has no other place to go but through the side of your ABC hose (typically at the most unfortunate time)
After living with ABC for a few years and studying it I've concluded that those parts can be the main reason for hose ruptures - as hydraulic fluid pressure suddenly increases and has no other place to go but through the side of your ABC hose (typically at the most unfortunate time)
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 17
Likes: 8
SL500
who's kit
brucewayne I went with the Strutmaster kit with light fix $1,600 including shipping. Includes everything you need to do the swap.
Last edited by Crabsl500; Jul 17, 2020 at 10:31 AM. Reason: reply to
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Minneapolis Area
2003 SL500
As a wrap up summary, I did go and repair the ABC suspension vs. replacing everything to coilovers.
After considering costs and the time it would take, I had my friends at Baker Road Automotive in Minnetonka, MN source a rebuilt pump, new high pressure line, filters, etc. for well under $2k.
I just wasn't sure about hacking the Benz up, and now that I understand all the little workings of the ABC system, it really is a superior ride, like non other.
Does that mean I made the right decision? Only time will tell. In the meantime, it's summer up here and I'm loving life again! Good luck everyone with your rides. Thanks for the help.
After considering costs and the time it would take, I had my friends at Baker Road Automotive in Minnetonka, MN source a rebuilt pump, new high pressure line, filters, etc. for well under $2k.
I just wasn't sure about hacking the Benz up, and now that I understand all the little workings of the ABC system, it really is a superior ride, like non other.
Does that mean I made the right decision? Only time will tell. In the meantime, it's summer up here and I'm loving life again! Good luck everyone with your rides. Thanks for the help.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 26
Likes: 2
sl500 r230 2003
ABC ELECTRIC FUNCTION
I’m trying to understand how the tandem pump works in relationship to the electrics, which of the electric feeds affect the pressure of the pump to the lines and how. Which fuses control what function..specifically can pulling a fuse or Disconnecting a plug decrease the pressure in the hydraulic lines?
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 367
Likes: 36
From: Dawesville, West Australia
2006 E55, 2006 SL55, 2006 LS7 Ute
Removing ABC control module
Folks, I have had all sorts of partial help on this along the lines of it is "under the dash" or it is in the "driver's footwell" but I simply cannot find the ABC module on my 2006 RHD SL55. If some one could help me with a bit more detail as in how to remove carpet from the side of the console as a CL55 drawing shows it located there. Ebay is full of them for sale so I guess I am just an idiot retired mechanical engineer. Please help this geezer get rid of the red warning after the installation of coil overs and roll bars. Cheers aplenty if someone can help me.
Folks, I have had all sorts of partial help on this along the lines of it is "under the dash" or it is in the "driver's footwell" but I simply cannot find the ABC module on my 2006 RHD SL55. If some one could help me with a bit more detail as in how to remove carpet from the side of the console as a CL55 drawing shows it located there. Ebay is full of them for sale so I guess I am just an idiot retired mechanical engineer. Please help this geezer get rid of the red warning after the installation of coil overs and roll bars. Cheers aplenty if someone can help me.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 502
Likes: 145
From: Tampa Bay, FL
2014 E350 Wagon, 2009 SL550 no ABC
Removing ABC control module
Folks, I have had all sorts of partial help on this along the lines of it is "under the dash" or it is in the "driver's footwell" but I simply cannot find the ABC module on my 2006 RHD SL55. If some one could help me with a bit more detail as in how to remove carpet from the side of the console as a CL55 drawing shows it located there. Ebay is full of them for sale so I guess I am just an idiot retired mechanical engineer. Please help this geezer get rid of the red warning after the installation of coil overs and roll bars. Cheers aplenty if someone can help me.
Folks, I have had all sorts of partial help on this along the lines of it is "under the dash" or it is in the "driver's footwell" but I simply cannot find the ABC module on my 2006 RHD SL55. If some one could help me with a bit more detail as in how to remove carpet from the side of the console as a CL55 drawing shows it located there. Ebay is full of them for sale so I guess I am just an idiot retired mechanical engineer. Please help this geezer get rid of the red warning after the installation of coil overs and roll bars. Cheers aplenty if someone can help me.
https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...er-struts.html
Good luck with whatever option you choose.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 502
Likes: 145
From: Tampa Bay, FL
2014 E350 Wagon, 2009 SL550 no ABC
There is a clean way to make it as if it came out of Mercedes factory (by configuring computers to non-ABC as in SL350 in some countries), or there are multiple alternative hacks, band aids or work arounds - it's a personal preference. Plus the clean way is free for those with access to proper tools.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2019
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
SL 55 AMG
I own the sl 55 amg 2003. 50 ths mile on it. The pump and the strut broke when I was 350 km away from home. I managed to drive back home. Withut the pum working, the car was waywing from side to side of a higway.
I understand, the ABC is a word class suspension. I love how it works. I just cannot afford to keep it: It takes weeks to get tit fixed, costs money for labor and you are buying time. If there is an ABC replacement kit - again fo ABC, I would go for it to buy another 16 years of service...
I understand, the ABC is a word class suspension. I love how it works. I just cannot afford to keep it: It takes weeks to get tit fixed, costs money for labor and you are buying time. If there is an ABC replacement kit - again fo ABC, I would go for it to buy another 16 years of service...
Last edited by KebHund; Sep 7, 2020 at 07:48 AM.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 26
Likes: 2
sl500 r230 2003
Abc light
I didn't go through the process of removing the valves and the lines as I have been driving the car every day and didn't want to have her off the road for too long. But it's just a matter of unbolting everything at this point really.
I did purchase the dash light mod. Once you splice it in, (extremely simple) all that happens is that you get a quick "ABC display not functioning". You just get to click through it.
I did purchase the dash light mod. Once you splice it in, (extremely simple) all that happens is that you get a quick "ABC display not functioning". You just get to click through it.
Member
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 87
Likes: 42
2003 S430 , 2002 CL500 , 2007 S550, 2003 Yukon Denali XL
