[Sebi70]

Hi guys,
New to the forum.
Recently bought an 89 /560 SEL.
Happy with the car except rear suspension.
The previous owner deleted the SLS suspension but now the car is low and uneven. I have been reading the posts on the forum and is obvious the job was done sloppy and incorrect.
I suspect new regular socks were installed but same old springs were used. The lines were cut. No apparent leaks under the car. The pump is still there and there is still fluid in the in the glass tank. The steering is harder than expected( now I am learning that SLS pump also operates the power steering).
I was optimistic after finding that this conversion is common, and the problem can be fixed.
The problem is finding a mechanic to do it. I was turned down by at least 4 shops that specialized in German cars ( they did not even look at the car).
The all claim there is not just replacing the springs/shocks and using shims.
I was planning to buy new Blistein spring/shocks .
Do you guys think they don’t know how to do it or is too much trouble for them? If Anyboby will take on this job, what would be reasonable to pay for it? The parts are not expensive.
I live in Wilmington DE/ close to Philly.
Please advise.
Thank you.

 

[MBL87560SEC]

Hi guys,
New to the forum.
Recently bought an 89 /560 SEL.
Happy with the car except rear suspension.
The previous owner deleted the SLS suspension but now the car is low and uneven. I have been reading the posts on the forum and is obvious the job was done sloppy and incorrect.
I suspect new regular socks were installed but same old springs were used. The lines were cut. No apparent leaks under the car. The pump is still there and there is still fluid in the in the glass tank. The steering is harder than expected( now I am learning that SLS pump also operates the power steering).
I was optimistic after finding that this conversion is common, and the problem can be fixed.
The problem is finding a mechanic to do it. I was turned down by at least 4 shops that specialized in German cars ( they did not even look at the car).
The all claim there is not just replacing the springs/shocks and using shims.
I was planning to buy new Blistein spring/shocks .
Do you guys think they don’t know how to do it or is too much trouble for them? If Anyboby will take on this job, what would be reasonable to pay for it? The parts are not expensive.
I live in Wilmington DE/ close to Philly.
Please advise.
Thank you.

Too bad that the job was poorly done.

You are correct that there are different rear springs for each rear suspension configuration.
The SLS springs are weaker than the conventional [spring/shock] design ones.

Let's clear something up, however.

The SLS & power steering reservoirs & pumps are different systems..
The power steering pump is belt-driven with a metal reservoir & cover.
The self-leveling has a large translucent white reservoir with a black plastic cover. Its pump is both attached to & driven mechanically by the engine.
The SLS pump is clearly shown just below & inside the power steering drive pulley in my photo. You can see its casting, almost like fins.
They are not one & the same.

MBL

 

[Sebi70]

Thanks, Mel,
So the power steering system should not be affected by the conversion, correct?

 

[MBL87560SEC]

Correct

Thanks, Mel,
So the power steering system should not be affected by the conversion, correct?

Correct.

I'd check the power steering fluid level & see where you are.

These cars produce a LOT more road feel than most American cars of that time..
Part of that equates to somewhat less power assist than domestic vehicles of the period.

M

 

[tusabes]

I suggest you meet up with member Fonzi he has all the parts needed to put it back and you can see what his cars feel like , he is in your area

 

[MBL87560SEC]

I suggest you meet up with member Fonzi he has all the parts needed to put it back and you can see what his cars feel like , he is in your area

tusabes offers really good advice in this. Should you put the suspension right you won't be disappointed at all.

M

 

[Sebi70]

tusabes offers really good advice in this. Should you put the suspension right you won't be disappointed at all.

M

Thanks.

 

[Sebi70]

I suggest you meet up with member Fonzi he has all the parts needed to put it back and you can see what his cars feel like , he is in your area

Thank you.
I will.