imtheking

Removing strutmaster from my 2003 SL. Picked up OEM struts from a junkyard that come with a 6 month warranty for $1100

Is an ABC flush/rodeo required after putting the original struts back on? The lines were capped off and the fluid has been circulating all this time (car came with Strutmaster- I didn't install)

bobterry99

According to Mercedes the answer is no. But once the installation work is complete you may find there are benefits to a flush which include reducing the tendency of the chassis to sag within just a day or two of sitting idle.

dgschroeder

now that you have gone back get ready to start signing the checks...

imtheking

I've owned nothing but SL's and CL's. I'm use to ABC issues. It's not as bad as people make it out to be. Lot of stuff you can now get aftermarket for much cheaper. Plus the ride quality on the Strutmaster is terrible- and no sway bars!

Tandem pump- $400-$500 on ebay/amazon
ABC fluid- 10 quart jug of Pentosin 11 ... $130 amazon/ebay
ABC filter- $50
Struts- arnott $500 after you send in your core- or like me, get it from a junkyard
Valve blocks- rebuilt ones all over ebay for $300-$500

When I did have ABC issues, there were few and far between- maybe I'm lucky? but when things went bad, I fixed it and it was never an issue again. For example- Only ABC issue I had on my CL was the ABC sensor and tandem pump (owned 7 years)

HLG600

With an unknown history and junkyard-replacement struts/shocks, I would flush the fluid.

imtheking

So that's my fear- unknown history. I put the struts back on and find out the car has a million other ABC issues (needs new pump, lines, sensors, accumulators etc)

My mechanic didn't see any leaks etc but said he won't know anything until the struts are put back on, programmed and the system is tested

The car is not fun to drive right now- drifts all over the place over 50MPH- very dangerous and unstable- I have no choice at this point

kbob999

I just did an ABC flush and new filter over the weekend for a friend with an SL55. Took about an hour once you have all the tools and drain lines rigged up.
Considering the time, and 5-6 liters of CHF 11S (it was running clear green after 5), it seems the cost and effort is well worth the long term value.
Just do it.