My 1990 560SEC has very hard ride, presumably from shot hydraulic load-leveller shocks and/or bad hydraulic valves/actuators. On a car this old, my mechanic suggests putting on HD Bilsteins, and then some shims or something to lengthen the springs to compensate. The whole thing should cost $500 or so, and the actuators alone are around $350 each (and if the shocks are also shot, mucho dinero). Is this something generally done as a cost saving alternative for these rather pricey hydraulic load-leveller shocks?
If you spent just a little time doing a search, you will find this topic has been discussed in nth degree details.
There are 4 major components on this leveling system, pump, valve, accumulator, and strunt (sp?). From what you have descriped, I think it is the acummulators.
This is how you would check the system out. The first step is to disconnect the return to the reservior and see if the hydraulic oil is flowing when the engine is running. You see flow, your pump is good. The next step is the valve. You would need to disconnect the rod from the arm and manually move the arm up and down with the engine running. If the rear end moves as you move the arm, the valve works. While you are under the car, check on the strunts. If you don't see a leak, they are fine too.
Unfortunately, you will have to remove the acummulator to check if it is o.k. However, based on what you provided, I am pretty sure that it is the accumulators. They are about $85 each and it is a relatively easy DIY project.
Though the previous post was a rude SOB, I 'd have to concur with his assessment. I bet on the accumulators being shot. They are relatively inexpensive. I'd also look for a new mechanic if that's his idea of the proper fix. There is a website with a great forum specifically for SEC owners, www.mbcoupes.com The knowledge gained from that site is immeasurable.
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