Damper identification question.

[Zanimat]

I'm hoping someone can help me to identify what dampers are fitted to my car. It's a newly acquired 1995 E300D W124 saloon and I suspect that it has non-standard dampers. Reasons being - 1) the ride is noticeably stiffer than my old 300D and - 2) the car has a factory-fitted towing attachment.
I've checked the VIN (WDB1241312C189999) against the Russian site but there is no mention of the suspension components.
I'm quite happy to have a rummage under the front wings once I know what I'm looking for - so - can anyone point me in the right direction, please?

 

[brandwooddixon]

Usually it's the springs rather than dampers which are changed.

You could always look for an MB logo and part number as they'll be on all MB components. Also if they are any colour other than black then that would be a giveaway.

 

[Zanimat]

Thanks for that. I guess it's a matter of pulling thinga apart & trying to track part numbers. I did reduce the tyre pressures to 25psi (from 30) temporarily this morning to see what difference it made; the ride is definitely softer, but I can still feel minor undulations in the road surface. Not sure what that tells me; does it suggest the springs are stiffer than standard?

 

[brandwooddixon]

I must admit that I'm not an expert on the W124 there are others here who are though.

I wouldn't drive around too much with your tyres down to 25psi. Stick with the recommended pressures.

It is possible that your vehicle has lower profile tyres and stiffer springs than your previous one. Both of these will effect ride quality.

I don't know what the W124 designations were for the current Classis, Avantgarde etc. designations, but I'm pretty certain that they were available with Sport packs (slightly lowered and stiffer suspension).

Check the tyre/rims first, then if you're lucky someone with access to WIS or similar will tell you whether you have sports type suspension fitted.

 

[Zanimat]

Thanks, Chris; I've reflated the tyres to normal. Tyres & rims appear to be standard sizes- though the tyres are Continental "ECO Friendly" low rolling resistance type. I did ask my local tyre supplier if that might mean they have stiffer walls, but he thought not.
I feel sure the suspension has not been lowered - and I do have access to WIS, but can't seem to find my way round it! In particular , wiring diagrams have completely eluded me!

 

[Zanimat]

I have now established that the front dampers on my car have a yellow 1 on them & the rear ones have a yellow 2. Does this indicate that the rear ones are stiffer than standard, bearing in mind the MB fitted towbar? All 4 springs have one red & three yellow marks.
Hope someone can establish the significance of this :???: