Caster kit need when dropping
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Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 62
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Caster kit need when dropping
I’m in the process of lowering my 320CLK W209. Plan to install Eibach (softest ride) springs and as the rear doesn’t need as much drop, go from #3 to #4 spring pads at the rear.
I first contacted MB, who quoted a ridiculous $1150 for labor only (including alignment) but plus material. They claimed a caster kit was needed.
Found another place that quoted $250 for labor (plus alignment) which seems reasonable. I asked them if a caster kit would be needed, but they didn’t think so.
Question. When lowering a CLK W209 or C-class W203 (same suspension), is it normal that a caster kit needs to be installed. Is it for the front or rear. Given that the Eibach has a fairly moderate drop, and in the rear I will go for thicker spring pads, does this reduce the need to a new caster kit.
Last question. When lowering, I thought camber was typically the problem, not caster.
Cheers.
I first contacted MB, who quoted a ridiculous $1150 for labor only (including alignment) but plus material. They claimed a caster kit was needed.
Found another place that quoted $250 for labor (plus alignment) which seems reasonable. I asked them if a caster kit would be needed, but they didn’t think so.
Question. When lowering a CLK W209 or C-class W203 (same suspension), is it normal that a caster kit needs to be installed. Is it for the front or rear. Given that the Eibach has a fairly moderate drop, and in the rear I will go for thicker spring pads, does this reduce the need to a new caster kit.
Last question. When lowering, I thought camber was typically the problem, not caster.
Cheers.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 2,891
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From: SoCal
2002 C230 : 2007 C230
Luke is correct, the caster doesn't change much, but it will be outside of MB specs. The dealer has both camber and castor bolts available. If you have the bolts installed at the same time you do the springs, it shouldn't cost much more.
