Removing and replacing front lower control arm on the W124 (part 1)

[@kostia_mu]

21:00 Brian you made my day... the founder of DIY podcast :D f*ck this video shit... just turn of the camera and explain us what to do :))

[@CarswithNash]

I had no idea about that Mercedes spring compressor, very interesting piece.👍

[@bsclifton]

It's a great tool! I had a generic clone of this tool from eBay (like $50) and didn't feel safe using it. Threw that in the trash (don't want someone else getting hurt!) and got this one. The compressors are branded "Miller" (name used for Daimler Chrysler)- but that is also made by Klann Tools (who made tools for MB). The company now is called Gedore Tools. Felt very safe using it 😁 Thanks for the tip on the rotor, BTW!

[@lekubaka]

Brian, the spring compressor you got there. Are they expensive? Can you share the link to the website?

[@bsclifton]

@@lekubaka Good question - the tool I have is the one by Klann Tools. I got the set (compressors, plates) for $800 USD used. There are clones of this on eBay if you search "w124 spring compressor". I did not feel safe using those. But they are much more affordable. Because I may use this tool somewhat often, the investment is not so bad for me.

[@FlashDriveFilms]

Wow. I've never pressed out control arm bushings. Always went for the whole assembly right up front. Interesting to see. The control arm is the exact same as on the R129, and they are basically just a larger version of the W201 (190E) chassis parts. So all the tools & trepidations you are showing are applicable on those models as well.

[@SWATovac]

Your w201 vids are awsome!

[@SmanEDITS]

anybody know OE number of thoes bolts at 22:18 i have later model lower control arm but i belive those bolts are the same

[@bsclifton]

Hi @SmanEDITS - these are called Eccentric bolts and the part number for one bolt (includes hardware) is 201-330-00-18. Should be around $10 USD at the dealer for the Genuine MB branded part.

[@lekubaka]

Question for you, what is the book you use for fixing the w124?

[@bsclifton]

Hi good question - I am using the official MBUSA shop manuals. There are digital versions available but I bought the physical ones from eBay. I have the chassis manual 1 & 2, the AC manual, the 602/603 engine manual, and a few more (including ETM - electronic technical manual)

[@cjlomax2156]

Yep - went through the same with my R129 - the full set from FCP was an easy fix. Still have the old just never taking the time to figure out the bushing - Great tutorial either way!

[@bsclifton]

Lesson learned on my side - definitely easy to do the whole assembly 🙂 Should be able to wrap up this weekend. How has the ride/handling been after doing it?

[@cjlomax2156]

@@bsclifton Much much better - as you are getting new ball joints and control arms - get an alignment as well or get it checked to be safe.

[@bsclifton]

@@cjlomax2156 will do! Actually, before that I'll need to replace the drag link, both tie rods, the idler arm bushing, and then the steering damper. THEN it's ready 🙂 Those should be a lot quicker though. I'll do my best to get those on video and maybe Mercedes-Benz of Chandler might even let me show off an alignment. The dealer has great equipment for doing it and it's a super fair price