MERCEDES SL500 R230 SILVERS NEOMAX COILOVERS ABC DELETE CONVERSION PROCESS AND INSTALLATION

2003 Mercedes Benz SL500 R230 NEOMAX COILOVERS ABC DELETE CONVERSION PROCESS AND INSTALLATION

[@georgesnasr7227]

Man I love my R230 , no worries no unexpected ABC failure , thank you for all the videos , I replaced the tendum pump as well , thank you a million , and she feels and handles better than the ABC

[@tokyo1469]

Genius solution to one of the biggest problems on these timeless beauties, great video 👍......R230 SL's have so many endless issues, from the fuel tank baffle (which if you do your research can be fixed in less than 2 hours of your time for free without replacing the tank) to sbc pump failure (which can be replaced without being scary money) etc...... these cars can be a pain in the arse, but man they reward big time... nothing on the road looks like or drives like an R230 SL500, perfect design still as fresh as the day they were launched !

[@goldelementautoworks]

tokyo1469 Excellent points made! And thank you so much for the reassurance. And I wholeheartedly agree with the timeless beauty.

[@goldelementautoworks]

@Judas Iscariot I appreciate that. And I agree.....limited info on specific problems. I research for days and days until I decide to just learn on my own. I haven’t developed a collection of info to share as of yet, other than KZbin so far. But that’s a good idea.

[@OatesSteve]

There’s a gentleman named Fanvette he had a great video in regards to doing the conversion, I’m not 100% sure if it was him but another video I watched on KZbin showed an individual getting in the trunk and just cutting a square hole right on top of where the top rear shock tower is to access it., It cuts down the time of removing the rear upper shock tower boats like you wouldn’t believe and worked out perfect for him but I don’t mind you know you’re going to see a little bit Of an imperfection in the shock Terra tower area in. The trunk but it’s not that ugly looking and who looks in the trunk that far back in that particular area anyway it’s really no big deal cut’s the wrench time down big-time, OK thought I’d throw in my two cents great idea I didn’t know about the fuse thing for the ABC, great video. R230s In my opinion are the best bang for the buck specially the SL 55 best vehicles ever made, M-113 & M113-K Best engines in my opinion, thanks, Steve O

[@goldelementautoworks]

Fantastic suggestions. Yeah.....I talked to him on another social media platform. I wish I would’ve known that one before I disassembled my trunk. I know next time though. Thanks bro!

[@audiguy8555]

I just picked one of these up myself:) Been binge watching all of your content love the channel

[@goldelementautoworks]

Audi guy85 Thank you so much!! If there’s anything I can help you out with, don’t hesitate to ask. 👌🏾

[@gbcprofesional]

WOW!! thanks for this... Cant wait for the driving and the settling so you can let us know what else to do..

[@goldelementautoworks]

Oliver J. Jackson Yes sir....I’m looking forward to the refinements. I’ll keep everyone posted. 👌🏾👍🏾

[@jimmy737]

WOW...YOU REALLY DID A GREAT JOB..WISH YOU COULD DO MINE THAT WAY

[@goldelementautoworks]

Jimmy Thank you!

[@johnbassett5196]

your a genius. Just made my day

[@goldelementautoworks]

John Bassett ☺️ Thank you!!!

[@georgesnasr7227]

Thank you for the quick answer , i am planning to replace the struts first and later on remove the rest of the hardware, i have the exact same car as yours

[@goldelementautoworks]

Good deal. Keep us posted.

[@georgesnasr7227]

Yes sir i sure do

[@Intechdude300]

I have always avoided owning a CL & R230 because of the ABC and coilovers may make me rethink that. I’ve flipped a meticulously maintained 05 S55 with ABC and owned an 06 S430 with Airmatic so I know how they ride. I just really want to drive an R230 or CL with coilovers to know for sure if I’ll like it or mostly tolerate it. Hate to buy the car, buy the kit, and hope for the best lol

[@goldelementautoworks]

I completely understand. These cars are so much more than the ABC suspension. Seldom do people buy cars because of the suspension. But they definitely will avoid a car due to the known failure of a suspension. The CL is fantastic with the Yellow Speed adjustable suspension. And the SL is great with Silvers Neomax adjustable suspension. You won’t be disappointed. I would suggest buying a car for cheap due to failed abc. That way….you’re not in it deeply financially and you’ll be less stressed.

[@Intechdude300]

@@goldelementautoworks oh I go to auctions weekly and see them sold cheap all the even when all is seemingly fine so it’s always temping.

[@bfarnden]

just ordered a set of these and was just wondering what the part number you ordered was and what options you added? I ordered the NM307 and did not add the swift springs, rear extenders, coil covers or the super low kit. thx in advance. great videos and tutorials BTW they have been a tonne of help working on this SL500 of mine.

[@goldelementautoworks]

Brian Farnden Good deal. My apologies for the late response. I haven’t been notification of comments. But......let’s see.......nothing additional to the coilovers. Just the standard set for this car. They have held up perfectly.

[@bfarnden]

Gold Element Autoworks, ya got em installed a couple months ago and couldn’t be happier, sure nice to not have to worry about the hydraulics messing up when the wife is driving it.

[@allenmizelle9040]

Which way to turn to raised the coilovers on the SL I wanted to know I recently changed to the same brand

[@goldelementautoworks]

Front or rear?

[@terrywin2661]

WOW!! Thanks for posting!! I hadn't heard of this brand, but I'm definitely going to google them. I have a 2009 r230, and I'm definitely going to delete the ABC system. What about the ABC warning light? I heard that the computer has to be "tricked" to think the suspension system is still there. So did you have to do anything with that, or did you not get any warning lights? Thanks again for posting though!!

[@goldelementautoworks]

Terry Win Thanks man! Regarding the ABC light, if you remove the larger ABC fuse located on drivers side under the hood...you’ll only get the white warning light at startup, of which you can clear with the steering wheel reset button.

[@terrywin2661]

Ok GREAT!! I just found your other video explaining the process, so thanks for sharing your knowledge and experiences. I'm DEFINITELY going to do the same when I start the mods on my whip!

[@donovanh5679]

​@@terrywin2661 Hi Win, I have a 2009 R230 SL550 and have been looking for proven coi.lover conversion kits as well. After extensive research, I found 3 most popular ABC conversion kits available today: Strutmasters, Rebuild Master Tech, and VVK. However, there is no definitive conclusion as to which is the most cost-effective and reliable. I am glad to know that Neomax is yet another option. Please do keep us posted about your effort. Lastly, I want to thank Gold Element Autoworks in producing this KZbin video.

[@axcil207]

Hi bro. Can i ask what or how tou shut off the hydraulic pipes from the original struts to install the Silvers

[@goldelementautoworks]

You can reroute the output line of the pump back to the input of the pump. Or you can disconnect at each strut and lift them out the way. Tie the lines back. I believe they are spring loaded so they close off when you disconnect. I completely removed all my lines and tandem pump.

[@georgesnasr7227]

Thank you for the beautiful video chat. Do they come with the hydrolic plugs ?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Thank you! They do not come with the caps for each strut connector. But I believe they are not necessary. The ‘quick’ release prevents fluid from coming out once you disconnect. I removed all lines etc, so I definitely didn’t need them.

[@whitesixromeo]

Hey man thanks for uploading this and giving tips. Do you really have to remove rear brake calipers or can you leave them on?

[@goldelementautoworks]

whitesixromeo No. Others suggest it. But I instead disconnected the rear lower arm at the inner rather than the outer at hub. That allowed me to keep the brakes on.

[@whitesixromeo]

Gold Element Autoworks thanks for the tips. I finally got it done. Did it in about 6 hours including power steering pump which was the hardest part. Honestly it rides pretty nice. I ordered sway bars will see what kind of difference it makes.

[@jojomanigbas4879]

Hello, I’m looking to do a coil over conversion and ready to order from you link. I would like to keep the ABC system just in case the next owner would like to put them back. So… I’m thinking, purchasing the coil overs and line plugs (Mercedes CL S SL ABC LINE PLUGS / CAPS for R230 W220 W215 SL55 SL600 S600 S55). BTW - will the plugs fit my SL500? It does not list SL500 in the description. It does list R230. I would remove ABC struts, Install NeoMax, cap/plug the ends of the ABC lines and remove the ABC fuse. Will this cause the tandem pump to break? Do you see any issue(s) with this setup? Any “Gotcha”? Thank you in advance.

[@goldelementautoworks]

Excellent idea! This will work perfectly for you. Yes, the plugs are designed for the SL500. Yes, you can keep the abc pump installed and only use the power steering side. Preserve the abc system for the next owner as an option. Perfect. Please reach out to me directly or via website. Please call or text me at [phone] or email me at [e-mail] for more info and assistance. Thank you!!

[@steviewildey2099]

Nice video well done

[@goldelementautoworks]

Stevie Wildey Thank you!

[@azmike3572]

I think you are really Darius Rucker, taking time out from touring to show us this!

[@goldelementautoworks]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@ptheo1208]

Hi did you remove all the hoses, valve etc of the abc system from your car?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Yes indeed. Check out my newest video. I did the same swap on a customers sl500.

[@ptheo1208]

@@goldelementautoworks Ok will check on the video, now you mention you did not install sway bar, how is it so far?

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@ptheo1208 No swaybar. It feels great. It’s not needed. Not necessary.

[@glennbeaubien511]

I'm done with struts being installed, but now I need to know if I can keep the existing tandem pump on the car or do I need a different pump? If I keep the pump, do I need to cap off anything on the pump to keep the fluid in the pump?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Either way is an option. If you want to be done...keep the pump in place. Make sure the connections don’t leak at the disconnected strut line. Remove the abc fuse on drivers side under the hood. And see what it does. I chose to remove all abc components in order to lighten the weight and ease the maintenance. And to sell the tandem pump in order to make money back.

[@glennbeaubien511]

@@goldelementautoworks so how do I cap off the ends of the lines?

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@glennbeaubien511 Strutmaster comes with threaded brass caps. I assume that’s what you can use. You can get them at a hardware store.

[@glennbeaubien511]

@@goldelementautoworks on the pump, are there Terri line that come off?

[@glennbeaubien511]

One that goes to power steering and one that feeds hydronic struys? Would I need to cap off the pump where hydronic hose feeds in to. I do have a rupture in one of the lines so I feel that just capping the 4 hose ends that feed into struts wouldn't solve that problem. Maybe best option is getting a W220 power steering pump is better option.

[@orlandogary1893]

i know its much later butv i am going to cut out the lining from top to give access to the top of the rear struts

[@goldelementautoworks]

I simply pull the carpet back now, rather than cut the carpet.

[@johnbozanic747]

how much would you charge to do this conversion ? I am thinking of doing it and would rather have someone who has done it already to do the conversion on my car

[@goldelementautoworks]

I’m willing to do it. Reach out to me here……… www.goldelementautoworks.com/contact

[@Level_Up_Nation]

I have a CL600 any updates on how it handles, body roll? ect? They have sway bars for them as well?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Minimum body roll. They do have swaybars available. I won't install any on mine. Its a good ride.

[@SpankUno]

Thanks for the video! Did it come with caps and light fix? If not what did you do?

[@goldelementautoworks]

No light fix module. Remove the ABC fuse driver side under hood. No more red light.

[@SpankUno]

@@goldelementautoworks and caps or plugs you just went to a hardware store or what?

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@SpankUno I removed all ABC components and lines. So no caps needed. The lines that disconnect from the struts.....they are supposed to close I thought once disconnected. I can’t remember. If you need threaded caps....yes, hardware store.

[@SpankUno]

@@goldelementautoworks thanks I ordered silvers today for next day delivery will let you how it goes

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@SpankUno Good job!

[@ptheo1208]

Also by removing the fuse as you mention, it will only show ABC white light ? So far no issue ? Thank you

[@goldelementautoworks]

Exactly. No issue.

[@ptheo1208]

@@goldelementautoworks Great to know, now can you advise where to buy the tandem pumps?

[@1482man]

I'm doing this project right now ! Took me all day to get the ball joint out the front and finish the front yesterday . I'm working on the rear now (which took me hours taking out the trim) . What exactly did you have to take off the rear to get to the rear shocks , Fram wise?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Nothing under the body. Everything is kinda accessible underneath. I’ve updated my process of getting access to the top of the struts. I no longer remove all the carpet and lining. You can simply pull the carpet back enough to to reach the two nuts and plug.

[@leverngandy9534]

Did you have to put swaybars on also??

[@goldelementautoworks]

Levern Gandy No swaybars.

[@leverngandy9534]

Ok thanks....I am on my way to driving again...

[@ernestslaughter6620]

Excelent

[@goldelementautoworks]

Thank you

[@r35spectgt-r84]

Are you using the stock tandem pump? If your pump is swapped out which did you use and is it plug and play? Thanks 😁

[@goldelementautoworks]

I used this standard pump…… www.goldelementautoworks.com/product-page/new-power-steering-pump-for-mercedes-benz-r230-sl500-sl55-sl600-w215-cl500-cl55 Reconnect the power steering line and original reservoir/hose. Perfect.

[@r35spectgt-r84]

@@goldelementautoworks you’re a prince dude thank you

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@r35spectgt-r84 No problem. Anymore questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

[@spookbridges5025]

How much will you charge me to do mercedes benz sl500 with the coilover

[@goldelementautoworks]

Hello! Thank you for reaching out and for the support. The coilovers and pump will cost approximately $1500. Labor is $2500. That includes the removal of all abc components and most lines. Installation and adjustments of coilovers and standard power steering pump. It will take 2-3 days for installation. Depending on when we schedule it, it can be quicker or a day longer. If you need assistance with transporting of vehicle, I have a great transport company who can do so efficiently and for a fair price. Let me know what works and how soon. If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to call or text me at 513-967-8079

[@goldelementautoworks]

Please visit my website to purchase the needed products. www.goldelementautoworks.com

[@Jonathanwrighteous]

Hi - how much did you raise the muffler to access that inner control arm bolt?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Until it stops. About 1-1.5” (inches) If it’s an AMG, it has to be lowered, not raised.

[@Jonathanwrighteous]

@@goldelementautoworks You’re the best - I’m 2003 sl500 so raise it I shall

[@Jonathanwrighteous]

Worked like a charm! You, sir, are a genius!

[@gordendavis3585]

I think my Pre-sets might be loose in the rear, can i take the tire off and adjust and check my pre-sets . sl500

[@goldelementautoworks]

Yes….I highly recommend that. Did you install them?

[@gordendavis3585]

@@goldelementautoworks yes i did the work myself with a buddy, theses garages are ridiculous with labor cost. lol

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@gordendavis3585 Good job! Very true.

[@goldelementautoworks]

Did you adjust the preload before installing or did you keep it the way it came out of the box?

[@gordendavis3585]

@@goldelementautoworks out the box

[@pourlafamille]

BG thanks for your video. I am 4 hours into trying to remove the front strut lower ball joint (designed by Satan himself). I know you said you were finally successful with the second (wider) separator you found. Any other suggestions? It's fighting me Really Hard. Thanks, Rob

[@goldelementautoworks]

Rob Walton Sorry for the late reply. Have you figured it out?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Rob Walton It’s a matter of getting the wider one at the right angle where you’re able to get good blows with the hammer. The smaller fork would not allow the proper placement to cause separation at impact.

[@pourlafamille]

I got it! I applied heat and just kept wacking on it and they finally gave in. Thanks for the help.

[@goldelementautoworks]

Rob Walton Good job bro! 👌🏾💪🏽

[@gregskipper]

Can u cut the carpet to get to the top of struts.

[@goldelementautoworks]

Correct. Yes you can. I didn’t know that at the time.

[@gregskipper]

@@goldelementautoworks I'm stuck with the car forever so I would rather do that and glue the carpet back

[@gregskipper]

Actually, we just pulled the carpet out of the way. It was easy

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@gregskipper Oh yeah? Ok…..great move.

[@mrkongsimr]

Wow , how much abc stuff did you remove ? Thanks

[@goldelementautoworks]

I removed everything!😂

[@Lifetime3456]

Why people not repair the struts, it not that hard at all and it cost me $ 15 to change all all seals and my time to do it until now 2 year pass and no problem at all.

[@goldelementautoworks]

That’s great that it worked out for you that way. But there are many more people who have spent thousands of dollars only to have unresolved problems afterwards. Sometimes it is a simple fix. Many times it is not. There is no…..one all solution. Too many factors and variables that contribute to a damaged and problematic system. So this is an option. A good one for many SL owners.

[@Lifetime3456]

@@goldelementautoworks Too bad , I did not recording it . Next time if happen again I for sure to have a video post it and hope it will help a lot of R230 lover .

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@Lifetime3456 That’s a great idea. Which seals did you replace?

[@Lifetime3456]

@@goldelementautoworks if not mistake I replace the top inside sealed that is where I see it crack

[@esesmash7149]

Would this be the same for the W212 E550?

[@goldelementautoworks]

No. Each suspension is a bit different. I’m not sure of the rear on that car.

[@andybenz6579]

Any error codes?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Andy Benz Whenever you bypass or remove the ABC system, you’ll get the red ABC warning. Eliminate that by removing the ABC fuse on drivers side under hood. That way....you’ll only get the white warning light at start, which you remove with the menu button on steering wheel.

[@leanidis300]

What would be the estimated (shop) cost if I wanted to go with coil overs as opposed to stock struts? anyone?

[@goldelementautoworks]

Anton That’s a very good question. It’s totally up to each individual shop. Much of it depends on the experience of the shop.

[@leanidis300]

@@goldelementautoworks Yeah I hear ya, I've over the years have had a number of shops do repairs but, not all that pleased with some. I'm estimating &3-3500 US for the whole job, what say you?

[@jruerph]

@@leanidis300 I was quoted about 20 hours for the labor at $95/hr, or otherwise $2,000k for labor and about another $1,200-1,500 for parts. Even though i really don't care for it I can turn a wrench and decided to do the job myself. Despite being a pain in the ass it's doable...just don't be in a hurry.

[@georgesnasr7227]

Can you drop your number I want to tell you about an easy way to change the rear struts without stripping the whole interior 😉

[@goldelementautoworks]

Are you referring to cutting the carpet to get access to the 3 top strut nuts?

[@georgesnasr7227]

@@goldelementautoworks no cutting just move it a little bit and get your hand inside , i tried it and it worked , you don't have to see everything just feeling it lol

[@georgesnasr7227]

Your videos are awesome , I ordered the neomax kit

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@georgesnasr7227 Thank you bro! I appreciate that info. After I did all the removal......I figured later that it likely wasn’t necessary. 😂 😂

[@jeffkennedy2132]

A big mistake replacing ABC however it’s none of my business!!! Mercedes engineers spent countless hours and moneys developing the ABC!!! All you need to do is keep crystal clear fluid and check hoses and under car check often and your good to go!!! The car is the best of best and rides and drives like nothing else!!! I personally don’t think it’s expensive to maintain as all you have to do is keep fluid at proper level and check on hoses regularly and your good!!! The yearly maintenance is going to be about 6000 per year give or take!! The safety and enjoyment the car provides me is well worth the cost!!! If you think this car is expensive to maintain then go maintain a Cirrus’s turbo at 25000 per year not counting insurance!! These cars are designed and built for a certain class and if you cannot afford maintenance may I suggest drive a less expensive vehicle like maybe a Hyundai!!!! JKennedy

[@goldelementautoworks]

I’m honestly kind of offended by this comment. If you choose to spend $6000 a year to maintain the SUSPENSION of a car........that’s foolishness to me. Has nothing to do with the financial ability or capability to afford a 17 year old SL500. It’s what each individual owner wants to do. I’d rather invest that $6000 into something more advantageous than simply driving one car. Especially when it can be enjoyed and driven safely on a coilover suspension. Yes..ABC is superior to anything else. But keep in mind that the same millions of dollars in research and development also lead them to offer the SL350 without an ABC suspension. This car can be driven either way. Add swaybars and you have a completely capable and safe car.....without abc failure at any given time. If you choose to maintain that well engineered suspension.....heck yeah. Good deal. But everyone owns their car for different reasons. I have 5 Mercedes. I personalize and modify every one to my liking. I don’t own a car to feel good that I’m leaving it original and no other option is allowed because Father Mercedes didn’t give me permission to do so. If that was the case.....all modifications are inferior to OEM. We definitely know that is far from reality. From aftermarket wheels to updated led lighting to better audio system mods. There are just as many purist who choose to keep and maintain the ABC system, as there are those who choose coilovers. And the thousands of cars sitting in garages, back of houses and junk yards because they either can’t afford to fix this now unreliable, old and susceptible suspension or they don’t see the reasoning in dumping excessive money into a car that’s worth less than two or three years of suspension failure and or maintenance. But............I respect all opinions and choices. I drive my car very spirited and care free. Enjoy your travels. Be safe.

[@AndrewSmith-jn5gn]

@@goldelementautoworks What a nice kind reply to someone that does not deserve it. I agree with you. ABC might have been the best thing when it was new but not worth the investment and has little return on investment at 17 years old. I’m putting the coil overs on my 2003 for peace of mind. I don’t want to worry about it breaking. I just want to enjoy the drive and reliability the coilovers give you. Some people get stuck on the originally thing. I like to make MY cars mine. I also have a 1967 250S that had a blown engine that no one wanted. I put in a 84 300d Diesel with T4 mustang overdrive manual transmission. Great 4 door daily driver with style. Keep up the good videos. I have gotten a few tips from your info. There will always be negative people out there dont let them get you down. Thanks

[@goldelementautoworks]

@@AndrewSmith-jn5gn Thanks bro! I’m glad I’ve been able to help. You know......those who haven’t had major problems out of theirs often like to speak up and defend ABC. That doesn’t speak for those who have been through the worse with their cars. No car worth $6-14k is worth the stress of not knowing if this is going to be the last drive before catastrophic abc failure. Not worth the proposed $6k a year to maintain a SUSPENSION! Dumb logic for most owners. Most of us didn’t buy the car for $90k so why are we defending “If you can’t afford to own it...” philosophy? I paid $5500 for mine. Most paid less than $15k. Ok....I’m tired....🥱🥱🥱

[@FuKnOveRkiLL]

"A Big Mistake"...GTFOH with that B.S. The SL65 Black Series comes stock with Coil Overs...let that sink in. What's good for YOU may NOT be good for OTHERS! ABC is not the be all end all when it comes to suspension systems and is long outdated. A properly matched/quality set of coil overs will far surpass the tunability of the ABS system especially if the owner tracks his/her car in any way. Have fun popping them hoses and paying $6K a year, must have $ to burn!

[@19211265]

@@goldelementautoworks Right on bro. Could not have said it better. You’re a gentleman and a scholar 🥂 Keep up the great work!!!