Replaced ADS suspension with regular hydraulic setup

[asianbond]

Gave up trying to fix the ADS system that was stuck in default firm mode.

Don't try this at home. Took my mechanic several days to complete the swap from a donor car. He had to drop the rear sub frame on both cars. The difference between both systems is that the ADS system has electronic gizmo attached to the rear hydraulic lines. The mechanic merely took the basic hydraulic setup (shocks, lines, accumlator, level control) from donor car and installed on my ADS car.

He replaced front shocks with regular stand alone Bilstein units (factory use same ones).

Results- the front appears normal now, the car rides over the bumps much better.

However, the back still has problems. Now the rear appears to soft when I push down on rear trunk, had this symptom when the donor car was running, i suspect the rear shocks might be worn, the accumulators are new. When it hits bump it appears to be bottoming out.

I think I will just installed a pair of stand alone bilstein shocks in rear, just like the front and find a way to plug up the hyraulic lines.

Any thoughts?

[pcmaher]

Oh No! You gave in to the Dark Side[:)]. Seriously though, I understand why you did it. I'm close to saying "Screw It" myself. BUT, I must try Merc600sec's theory of low battery voltage before I too turn to the Dark Side.

I've been trying to picture how the pump system works in my mind. It's a constant recirculating system. What would happen if you plugged the lines? I'm guessing nothing. It would be the same as if the leveling valve were in stasis (no change needed). There must be a way for the hydraulic fluid to keep circulating. If you think about it, you don't need to circulate any oil anymore. But could the pump run dry? I suspect that would damage it, and half of this pump happens to be for the power steering. Anybody else have any thoughts on this?

[pchansen1]

[asianbond]

Turns out i had to bleed the rear self leveling hydraulic system of air,my mechanic did it, it's better, but I find it still a little rough on the bigger bumps.

I wonder is it due to the 18" wheels I'm running.

[jhodg5ck]

that's odd...the W126's self bleed.

Hope the switch works out in the long run:)

Jonathan