C32 Shocks

[jonathanc]

Hi All

I need to replace the shocks on my C32 but there is some confusion over what to replace them with. I intended to go with Sachs which I believe is the OEM manufacturer but the shocks that Euro Car Parts identify and also the ZF catalogue show a different part number to EPC. The EPC part number is 203 326 19 00 for the rears and 203 320 72 30 for the fronts.
Can anyone let me know of a suitable replacement - either OEM (but not at MB prices!) or aftermarket. I don't want to lower the car or go for coilovers, just replace the tired original shocks.
Any help appreciated, especially experience of replacing C32 shocks,

Thanks

Jonathan

 

[elite_504]

I replaced the rear shocks on my C32 estate with OEM spec Sachs units from Eurocar parts. Really easy repair.
I was initially concerned that they might be self-levelling air shocks and some compressor faff might be required, but certainly in my case it was a straightforward hydraulic tube, no air. I don't even know if self levelling was an option on a C32..

A little extra info on my post from a few months ago here:
http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/wheels-tyres/121837-c32-w203-rear-shocks-recommendation.html

 

[jonathanc]

Hi

I was thinking Sachs but speaking to Patrick at Eurocar parts we can't identify the correct parts - the one he suggested don't tie up with EPC and the ones he suggests don't include my chassis number! How much of an improvement did you find and what mileage were they changed at?

Cheers

 

[EuroCarParts]

I replaced the rear shocks on my C32 estate with OEM spec Sachs units from Eurocar parts. Really easy repair.
I was initially concerned that they might be self-levelling air shocks and some compressor faff might be required, but certainly in my case it was a straightforward hydraulic tube, no air. I don't even know if self levelling was an option on a C32..

A little extra info on my post from a few months ago here:
http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/wheels-tyres/121837-c32-w203-rear-shocks-recommendation.html

Thus is a really strange one, as our suspensionn team don't believe we do a set - however as jonathan mentions Sachs do list a set.

If you can confirm the numbers, and they match sachs then I have a feeling we're missing out as they r not linked onnour system.

Hopefully we can solve this and help future c32 owners

Pat

 

[jonathanc]

OK, checked the car and the current shocks are part no A203 320 08 31 which is what EPC says they should be. According to EPC these have now been replaced with an updated part number, A203 326 19 00. I couldn't see if there was a Sachs part number.
If I check on the ZF site none of the shocks listed have either of these mercedes part numbers against them. Perhaps if you could give the above part numbers to ZF they may be able to identify a suitable Sachs part? I couldn't see a way of doing this on their website.
I am off to MBS tomorrow for the car's MOT so I will ask them if they have any suggestions. I guess the other option is to see if MB have one in stock and see if it has the Sachs number on it. I'll try and do this tomorrow.

Cheers

 

[elite_504]

Ok, I've just taken a look at my receipt from Jan this year, and it's showing a Euro Car Parts part number for the shocks as (quantity of two, as they are not handed) of 635220110.
Just to be crystal, mine is a non air shock C32 Estate. I don't know if the saloon is different.

Job for me was completed at 99k, and after 10 years, so I'd say I was happy with that! Cheap parts too at a ton for the pair.
I couldn't tell the difference at all once it was changed to be honest. It was changed after a weep was spotted at MOT time. Replacement shock was identical to the one removed (although not having a shock dyno in my shed I can't confirm if the compression and rebound damping were identical;-) )
Job is literally 1/2 hr per side. It is dead simple. It took me longer to work out how to remove the interior trim (floor must come up. . .!) than it did to do the shock itself.
Don't forget the rubber top-mounts in the box!!