Hello Fellow MB Fans,
I am new to the forum and have a question about the 91 - 560SEL Self Leveling Rear Suspension. I purchased this car with 104K and now have 138K miles...Engine is mint and is just breaking in . I do seem to have the treaded S/L suspension problem and looking for some advise.
I have a very hard ride when traveling on bumpy roads and very bouncy ride on the highway especially with 2 passengers in the back. I have visually checked the rear shocks and they don't seem to be leaking, (was told they could last up to 200K if not leaking). I have a feeling the Air Cells are shot, but can't seem to locate them - any tip here would be appreciated. I am also wondering if the entire Hydraulic system can be by passed and just install standard rear shocks. Can this be done? Is the Hydr. system used for any other purpose?
I plan to keep this car for myself - not resell.

Thanks for any advice in advance!
Jim

 

i will send you location diagram tomorrow.

for now... got to go see the F1 race.

 

Hello Sleepwalker,
How was the race ? I was wondering about the Air Cell diagram, but more importantly can I by pass the hydr. system and put in regular rear shocks.
Thanks in advance !
JIM

 

I had same problem (86 560SEL), changed the accumulators and man what a difference. they are small black cylinders right next to the rear springs on mine but I am sure sleepwalker would know more. Good luck.

Jerry

 

the race was very exciting. i was expecting all the race cars to break, but only a few did.

i see one wheel running without a car, and a car running without 1 front wheel!!! yet he maintain a high speed and made it to the pit. amazing how they make it. michael shoemaker also got his tires peeling like banana, but it doesn't looks flat and still drives the car.
the smell of rubber was good. i can almost tell if it's bridgestone or pirelli
i will send the diagram.

 

figure #4 is the pressure rservoir.

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if i were you, i will not convert it to conventional suspension... just fix the problem. you can keep the originality and cost less too.

knocking noise on rear axle>>> cause: insufficient preload on the upper rubber spacer mounting of the rear axle spring stuts.
Remedy: check for the proper preload of rubber spacers. install new upper rubber spacer.

 

just check if there is a free play. tighten the nuts and listen if there's some changees..

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