Before You Begin: Tools & Parts
Essential Tools:
Socket Set & Ratchet (including E-Torx sockets, common on Mercedes)
Wrench Set
Jack and Jack Stands (x4 for maximum safety)
Torque Wrench
Spring Compressors (CRITICAL FOR SAFETY)
Allen Key Set
Pry Bar
Penetrating Fluid (e.g., WD-40)
Recommended Parts:
Front Shock Absorbers (x2)
Front Coil Springs (x2)
Strut Mounts (Upper Spring Plates)
Strut Mount Bolts (often should be replaced)
Bump Stops and Dust Boots
Step-by-Step Written Instructions
Step 1: Safety First & Vehicle Preparation
Park the car on a flat, solid surface and engage the parking brake.
Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels slightly while the car is on the ground.
Jack up the front of the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands on both sides. Never rely on a jack alone.
Remove the front wheels.
Step 2: Accessing the Strut Assembly
Open the hood and locate the three nuts on the top of the strut tower.
To prevent the strut from spinning, you may need to hold the central piston rod with an Allen key from the top. Do not remove the top nut yet.
In the wheel well, disconnect the brake line bracket from the strut housing.
Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut housing using the appropriate wrench.
Step 3: Removing the Strut
The strut is connected to the steering knuckle via two large bolts. Spray these thoroughly with penetrating fluid.
Remove these two bolts. You may need to tap them out with a hammer and punch.
Once the knuckle is free, you can now go back and remove the three top nuts from the engine bay.
Carefully lower the entire strut assembly out from the wheel well.
Step 4: Disassembling the Strut (The Most Dangerous Step)
Mount the strut securely in a vise. Do not overtighten and damage the housing.
Install spring compressors following the tool manufacturer’s instructions. Use two compressors opposite each other.
Tighten the compressors gradually and evenly until all spring tension is relieved from the top mount. You should be able to spin the top nut freely by hand.
Only now can you safely remove the top center nut.
Carefully disassemble the components in this order: upper mount, spring seat, the compressed spring, and then the old shock absorber.
Step 5: Reassembly & Installation
Assemble the new strut in the reverse order of disassembly:
Slide the new shock into the housing.
Place the new bump stop and dust boot.
Carefully position the new spring (ensure it is seated correctly in its lower perch).
Reinstall the spring seat and new upper mount.
While the spring is still compressed, install and tighten the new top nut to the manufacturer’s specification.
Slowly and carefully release the spring compressors.
The assembly is now complete. Reverse the removal steps to install the new strut back into the vehicle.
Torque all bolts to factory specifications. This is crucial for safety and performance.
Pro Tips from Our Technicians
Replace in Pairs: Always replace both left and right shocks/springs at the same time to maintain balanced handling.
Check Related Parts: While you’re in there, inspect and often replace the strut mounts, sway bar links, and control arm bushings. It saves labor in the long run.
Get an Alignment: A front strut replacement will absolutely change your wheel alignment. You must get a professional wheel alignment after completing this job to ensure proper tire wear and handling.
Why Choose Siri TechnoFabs for Your Classic Mercedes Maintenance?
At Siri TechnoFabs, we don’t just understand modern IT systems; our mechanical division has a passion for preserving automotive legends like the Mercedes W124. Our approach combines:
Expert Technique: Decades of experience with European automotive engineering.
Quality Parts: We source and recommend only high-quality, reliable components.
Meticulous Care: We treat every vehicle with the respect it deserves.
Need professional help with your W124 restoration? Our skilled technicians are here to ensure the job is done right, safely, and to the highest standard. Contact US