DVC

Replaced the front as a preventative and am very happy with Arnott's service and product. Although I did hook up my STAR to fully deflate the strut, is came from Arnott below 3 bar, so install should be simple w/out STAR.

I'd recommend that while you have the strut out to replace your swaybar endlinks, or at least make sure the top bolt is TIGHT.

berti_00

Looks sick

55fanatic

it's good to know that there are options out there now, I think I would switch to a set of coilovers... better in the long term

phalen302

I'm curious, please state mileage at replacement? and how long(time) did it took to replace them? thanks

My fronts seems little loose but not leaking; 55k. Was thinking about replacing them.

Hulk

Did both of mine and with lifetime warranty you can't go wrong

Manuyc

DVC

I replaced them with just under 70K, but did so preemptively. The stockers were still performing well, but I didn't want to get stuck with a flat bag.

Not having done it before, I'd say it took an hour to replace the first one. That includes getting the car on stands and everything loose. Once you have the lower bolt removed, as well as the 4 top nuts and wires/hose disconnected, you can work the lower part of the strut over the lower control arm. That way you won't have to mess with ball joints etc. Turn the wheel left or right to find the most room to work.

I actually think dealing with the harness in the fenderwell is the worst part of the job.

I can tell no difference in ride or performance to that of the OEM units.

DVC

I know what you mean about the coilovers. But for me, after years of daily driving with coilovers, I'm really enjoying the Airmatic. Let's me have my cake and eat it too

aghakauve

I drove a e55 with KW coilovers and I was in love!

GT-ER

Are the shocks themselves rebuilt as well? Or do they just service the air bellows?

slownrusty

What is the cost saving versus buying the OEM MB strut?

GT-ER

About $500-$600.

DVC

Great question. I'm under the believe that the damper was only cosmetically refreshed. I'd like to think it was at least dyno tested for rebound and compression, but I could find no info regarding what is done to it.

TheOtherDodge

I agree that from a cosmetic standpoint, the Arnott looked superb! Performance-wise, I can't tell the difference and I just replaced the driver's side (went down at 70,000 miles).

Installation was pretty straight forward and not difficult. I did not have STAR and simply used a pry bar to compress the strut and move lower strut mounting tab to the mounting point.

TheVazha

I've had both my fronts replaced with Arnott. Doing my rears this weekend. Lifetime warranty and a fraction of the price compared to OEM 100% guaranteed failure rate.

DVC

Please post your impressions of the rear Arnott's when you get a chance.

Love the look on the Weimaraner's face with the female driver LOL!

TheOtherDodge

Nice pics! I have a Weimer! She turned 14 on Dec 10 and is the best dog I have ever owned!

alextaylor29

May I ask where you can buy these and what's a good price for them? I've already replaced two under warranty, but might pro-actively do the other two as well.

Thanks, very helpful thread!

Alex

vettdvr

I did the job myself and replaced both front struts with Arnott and I have replaced both rear shocks also.

I notice some of you have a STAR? Exactly what is STAR? I know MB has their bizillion$$ startrek unit and I assume you aren't referring to that.

Is the STAR a stand alone computer for home use? Is it price reasonable? Thanks.