Question for thos who have done their own ABC Valve Rebuild

[STCLARKE]

Hello all, While I am in Canada, I see a number of posts here in the UK Forum around ABC Valve Rebuilds, so thought I might reach out for some assistance/Guidance here also.

I have spent a considerable amount of time studying forums, posts, you tube videos, Mercedes WIS etc on DIY rebuild of both my Sl500/R230 ABC Valves. After all I have reviewed, I still have a couple of basic questions as a DIY'er I can't seem to locate detail on.

To date I have performed a flush so I have fresh fluid, replaced the left front strut, and now I am about to embark on the ABC Valve rebuild (and also replacing the other components around the valve also)

My question is this (as I was about to only put the left side up on jacks and leave the right side down on my garage floor), When working on the front ABC Valve, should I have BOTH front sides supported on stands, and similar when working on the rear ? Or am I OK with supporting just the left side of the vehicle and not the right side in any way ?

I know I need to reduce the pressure in the system, and was going to do this work after the car had been parked a couple of days, so don't think I need to bleed at the nipple by the struts, unless I need to.

So, I'm looking for any feedback on best approach to attack this job before I start pulling things apart and rebuilding would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks in advance for the support

 

[LostKiwi]

I would lift all 4 wheels and I would definitely release pressure using the nipples on the front. The operating pressure of ABC is quite high.

 

[STCLARKE]

Thanks LostKiwi. I was going to let the car sit for a while before starting into this, but sounds like I may be going the route you suggested.

 

[Craiglxviii]

Absolutely support all corners of the car.

Where are you sourcing the o- rings from?

 

[Flyinspanner]

Use Viton O rings.

 

[Craiglxviii]

Use Viton O rings.

Yep; avoid commercial hydraulic grade (green), they will shred within months.

 

[STCLARKE]

Purchased them from a fellow in Vegas who makes kits and does rebuilds. Not sure if I'm allowed as per forum rules to post name

 

[Craiglxviii]

Purchased them from a fellow in Vegas who makes kits and does rebuilds. Not sure if I'm allowed as per forum rules to post name

I make up kits too, it’s common knowledge. I doubt anyone here would know of your Vegas fellow.

My point was, are the seals you’re buying Viton or not? If not, I can help you- you really need them to be.

 

[STCLARKE]

From website

PTFE backup rings for improved sealing, easier installation, longer life. Contents include new clip, outer seals for control valves, 14 Viton orings and 14 PTFE backup rings

I already have them, now just need time to deal with the repair.

 

[Craiglxviii]

From website

PTFE backup rings for improved sealing, easier installation, longer life. Contents include new clip, outer seals for control valves, 14 Viton orings and 14 PTFE backup rings

I already have them, now just need time to deal with the repair.

Make sure to build yourself a clean room. I’d suggest that you use a plastic storage box. Get a toothbrush and a cupful of Pentosin CHF.11S and thoroughly scrub everything, wipe clean with a microfibre cloth and set aside in another clean plastic box.

Yeah yeah, save the marketing spiel just make sure the spacer rings are square cut, they’re a non- wear component anyway. It’s the normal cord o-rings that are vital and Viton is needed for service life.