I want my 190E to back up where it belongs

[ollieplimsoles]

My 190E 2.0 auto had it's suspension lowered by a previous owner using 'a Bilstein kit'.

Shooting in the dark a bit here - but is it possible to raise the vehicle back to it's original ride height?

Its part of my master plan which includes removing the alloys and replacing with original steel rims and 185 tyres in place of the 225 monstrosities currently on show.

Take a look and see what I mean.

Mark S

 

[mattjpreston]

What size and offset are the rims? May be interested in them if you're getting rid.

 

[Ian B Walker]

Me thinks that you will have to revert to the standard springs. Or, if only the rubber bump pads have been changed, change them back. If memory serves me right, the original tyre size was 195x55x15

 

[Rumble]

does that mean the indicators will be changed back to the orange housing and the grill (not sure if thats original)?

 

[grober]

Tyres were 185/65 R15 H and V rated on 6J WHEELS and 205/55R15 V on the 16 valve models. For originality I would go for the original 10 hole alloys either standard or wider 16v wheels. About £100 each discounted at the dealer! I would probably leave the suspension alone if its not too hard since it probably is quite close to the original factory sportline option. Reverting to old height might mean changing all the struts/shocks and the springs plus spring pads. Quite a lot of money.

 

[ollieplimsoles]

Thanks for all your advice. I don't like the thoughts of a major suspension redo so I may leave as is.

I'll get back to you with rim specs Matt.

Yeah Rumble - should really go back to orange indicators and the grille does have an avantgarde insert - I presume it would be fairly easy to find an original one?

Going for 185/65 R15 H on MB steel rims with MB trims as a temp. measure - may look for original 10 hole alloys at a later date. Hoping this will soften the ride a little.

Mark S.

 

[High-Lo]

Mark I think your car looks very nice.

 

[ollieplimsoles]

Sorry to only get back to you now High-Lo - thank you for your comment

Regards,

Mark

 

[stats007]

Mark I'm with you on going back to original - your car looks too messed with at the moment - especially the number plate.

 

[Rose Chap]

That is a great car and would look excellent as 'standard', so I take my hat off for you for this reverse modding!

Has the interior been messed around with as well or is that standard?

 

[ollieplimsoles]

Sorry that I've been out of touch a while Rose Chap but thanks for your comments - the interior is 'Mushroom Leather' and it's generally ok with a little bit of wear and a tear on the drivers seat but nothing too serious I feel. The leather could do with a clean - any ideas on lotions & potions etc? The previous owner had fitted a 'tacky' Goodmans shiny silver radio/CD player which I duly removed and have replaced with a more in keeping Blaupunkt Paris from a 93 190E purchased on ebay. The car also sported 'black on white' dials but I asked to have these replaced with originals before I bought the car. I have also replaced the twin stainless steel 'pimp my ride' drainpipe that was being used as an exhaust with the proper one. Alloys have been replaced with the steel rims/wheel trims and 185 tyres. I have also replaced the smoked rear light lenses with originals from ebay & the breakers yard. Next step is to replace front indicator lenses with originals and the side repeaters also. I shall also replace the avantgarde grille insert with the proper item. Final move will be to sell the reg. and replace with a 91 NI number. The car has received a good service and is running very smoothly apart from the usual little whine somewhere in the transmission - any ideas on a fix or should I bother? - its not that intrusive The suspension has been verified as being rather expensive to rectify and as the car is a 'weekend friend' I don't think I can justify the time & outlay.

Thanks again to your good self and everyone else that have helped with sound and useful advice - I'll be back!