107 Dampers - Bilstein B4s?>

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n209385

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Sep 19, 2010
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Hi all

Am considering replacing the dampers on my 107 500SL.

Is it possible to improve the ride handling with what is available out there. Having done a search it would appear that Bilstein B4s may be appropriate.

Will these have any effect on handling? I am a little confused as they are described as an OEM replacement. Does this imply they are the same as those already fitted? My old dampers are not shot I would simply like a bit more control that is all.

Don't wish to lower the car, but would also consider new dampers and springs...but is this possible on a 107 SL?

cheers in advance

Julian
 
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Bilstein or Sachs

In your shoes, I would get original MB kit. I loved the handling of my 8K mile 500SL - 100 mph average speed from Koblenz to the hotel door in Bonn!!!

Having said that, Bilstein and/or Sachs may be original and will be of good quality. The Bilstein B6 is appropriate for non-lowered installations and is the heavy duty version.

Good luck to you and happy motoring in that 500SL!

RayH
 
thanks for that.

As you say...not sure it really needs altering...relax more while driving perhaps!?
 
Bilstein B4 are oem.
 
n209385;1051361Is it possible to improve the ride handling... My old dampers are not shot I would simply like a bit more control that is all[/QUOTE said:
Exactly what are you trying to achieve and what have you done so far?

If the car doesn't have a set of new tyres I'd start with that, then look at alignment, bushes, steering arms, joints & idler, suspension mounts, springs and then dampers last of all

Nick Frome
the independent Mercedes Estate specialists
 
Nick,
Is your tyre of choice for the 124 still Continental Contact Sport 2.
Thanks

John
 
Exactly what are you trying to achieve and what have you done so far?
the independent Mercedes Estate specialists

To be honest there is nothing wrong with the ride as it is. The car has only covered 55k. I appreciate it is an old car but find the ride too soft for my more modern tastes. Not sure if stiffening the ride would help or ruin the car however.

I assume therefore that in effect the car has B4s fitted? New B4 dampers will have no effect.

thanks - julian
 
imo stiffening a 107 will ruin it. There is already some scuttle shake on rough surfaces: you wouldn't really want to worsen that...would you?
 
I'm with Druk on this one. I was just last night musing about just how smooth the ride was coming back on the A40 into London. At 50mph, with the top up, the car was virtually silent. Not bad for a car developed in the mid 60's, and convertible to boot.

It's a very cosseting ride, and I think it's part of the character of the car; go for the cruise element and it doesn't disappoint. I'd stick with the current setup.
 
imo stiffening a 107 will ruin it. There is already some scuttle shake on rough surfaces: you wouldn't really want to worsen that...would you?

I think you are right...scuttle shake is quite pronounced so a stiffer more heavily damped car would feel wrong. Point and squirt is the way forward.

I think I'll save the money and put it towards the respray.

cheers - julian
 

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