560 SEC Suspension - Rear end looking low

[DavidXWhite]

The rear of my '89 560 SEC is looking a little low(!). I've read this car has self levelling suspension (just the rear?), so what I should be looking at to check it still works OK?
Also, the car feels vague at speed, with constant adjustments of the steering wheel just to get a straight line. I think maybe the suspension is causing this, but I haven't got a scooby.
Any help greatly appreciated.

 

[Robmof]

560 SEC Suspension

My suspension started to leak due to corroded pipes.  I am told that replacing the pipes is difficult due to their location behind subframe.  I have also been told that a cheaper long term solution is to revert to normal suspension by blanking drive to pump etc.  I have not fully explored this, but it sounds a better long term solution as the pump and self leveller are expensive items.

Good luck

 

[Andy]

560 SEC Suspension

Hi all,

First let me state right from the off. Trying to remove self levelling suspension and fitting normal shockers. Never works well. If the pipes arn't leaking then leave well alone.

The vagueness you are refering to is more than likely excess free movement in the steering box.

If the vehicle is low at the back. Then new springs are required. As the body sits on the springs, and not the shockers.

Hope this helps.

Regards

Andy @ mercedesservicing.com

 

[JAZ1956]

560 SEC Suspension

It's an easy job to convert your rear-only self-levelling.
The original springs used for this set-up are very soft and when any problems in the hydraulics develop ( or if you forget to top-up with oil ) the back end drops and the car becomes difficult or even dangerous to drive!
If you do your own service and maintenance then you're OK. The rear seat bench has to be removed to get access to the hydraulic banjo connectors on the high pressure struts then you can remove the struts downwards. It's then a case of spring compressors to remove and re-fit springs (using Heavy Duty gauge helps) then fit standard type or uprated dampers. As for the pump and hydraulics it's up to you what happens next-you can leave it to run dry or if you want to be kind and the steel pipes aren't corroded just set the level valve to it's centre position and remove the link to the rear anti-roll bar. You could also just remove the pump (in front of the distibutor drive ) and reservoir if you buy a simple blanking plate. I hope this helps you and that you do the modification as soon as possible or drive another motor until you can-it's NOT safe as it is! Don't believe anyone who tells you it can't be done-I'm talking from long experience. Best of luck and safe Mercedes motoring.
JAZ