Shock absorbers changing

[astamir]

Hi tried to change a suspension shock absorber on my C class coupe 2003 year, and it looks like I need a special key does anyone knows what tool is it and what it's called? Thanks

 

[nigel cross]

Is it for the front?

 

[astamir]

Hi yeah it's a front ones

 

[astamir]

Common guys can u please help me??????

 

[nigel cross]

You will need monster spring compressor and a special tool only available from mb.not sure of its name, looks like a nut with 2 pins in it

 

[jackofalltrade]

I tried searching for "spring compressor hire" and found several interesting threads including this one http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/wheels-tyres/75950-coil-spring-compressor-rent-borrow.html. Does anyone know if these will fit the A-Class W168?

 

[grober]

Its important when discussing work on MB front suspension to determine the exact type of suspension you are dealing with. 1990's suspension tended to have separate springs and shock absorbers and require the Klann type spring compressor. Post 2000 many smaller models moved to the more conventional MACPHERSON STRUT type front suspension with a single combined shock+spring " unit" The usual technique renewing/ rebuilding these is to remove the entire combined suspension unit from the car and dismantling/assembling it "on the bench" This means external spring compressors can be used. Better still take the entire unit to friendly garage to use their hydraulic/pneumatic power unit. If this is the first time the suspension has been worked on since 2003 I would seriously think of renewing both front suspension units - complete. If you buy the front 2 as new ready assembled units it may be cheaper than getting them rebuilt. You should always replace older suspension components as pairs to retain the car's handling balance.

 

[astamir]

Hi thanks for your replies guys I have the spring compressor the only thing I don't have at the moment is that special key that looks like a nut with 2pins on it. Does anyone knows what it's called?

 

[grober]

IT GOES UNDER VARIOUS NAMES STRUT RETAINER TOOL or PIN WRENCH INSERT

Part no is . 203-589-00-07-00 Welcome to the C-Class!
Advice seems to be take the strut off yourself but leave the rebuilding to a specialist with a strong spring compressor- or simply replace the entire strut assembly.

 

[astamir]

Thanks guys for the help

 

[Dieselman]

You could just grind an old socket down to make the pegs then replace the top nut with a proper hex nut.