[FatSal]

I didn't know there were rear 3-nub pads--unless you can use ones intended for the front on the rear.

So, if the SLS system is sagging, at least it's not over-stressed at that point in time (although it could be evidence of a past an SLS problem, aside from spring/pad wear, diff/subframe bushings)?

In my case, all parts are getting replaced, so maybe the thicker 14mm pad is a good insurance option for not only SLS stress protection-- but visually, particularly with new springs front and back?

The part number is 1153252444 for the 3-nub or 3-burl 19mm rear spring pad. Take a look: MERCEDES (1968-1992) Coil Spring Pad - (3 Burls - 19 mm) REAR LEFT & RIGHT (2) | eBay

 

[DrewPT]

Thanks, with my situation, maybe this extra 9.5mm, while seemingly negligible, would be a good addition to the new springs. How long before the springs start to settle down and compress to a more permanent position?

 

[FatSal]

You'll have to install the new springs and pads and drive around for a month or so. Then you'll know how the car will settle and see if you like the stance.

Take photos of the car on a level ground. You'll know if you need to switch the pads or if you can get away with adjusting the SLS without over-compensating it.

 

[DrewPT]

You'll have to install the new springs and pads and drive around for a month or so. Then you'll know how the car will settle and see if you like the stance.

Take photos of the car on a level ground. You'll know if you need to switch the pads or if you can get away with adjusting the SLS without over-compensating it.

If the car still tilts down toward the rear left, even after the differential and subframe mount replacements, I wonder if it's safe to have a higher pad on the rear left, and a shorter one on the rear right?

 

[vdubpower]

my 500sel had 2front 3 rear nubs stock and when i put the HR springs in i bought new ones to refresh.
My sec had 1/2 i and bought same for replacement with HR. The front of that car did not lower as much as i expected, so we cut 1/3 of a coil... each car is different with out any reasonable rhyme or reason it seems

 

[DrewPT]

Another thing, is my '87 is from the anti-squat trailing arm series '86-'87. Perhaps that's another variable?

 

[slownrusty]

As Tina Turner once sang "What's Nub gotta to do, gotta to do with it"

 

[DrewPT]

my 500sel had 2front 3 rear nubs stock and when i put the HR springs in i bought new ones to refresh.
My sec had 1/2 i and bought same for replacement with HR. The front of that car did not lower as much as i expected, so we cut 1/3 of a coil... each car is different with out any reasonable rhyme or reason it seems

Did you find 1/3rd coil cut to be a satisfactory solution? And, any perceptible difference in feel? The HR springs would be firmer anyway.

 

[MBL87560SEC]

Did you find 1/3rd coil cut to be a satisfactory solution? And, any perceptible difference in feel? The HR springs would be firmer anyway.

Hey Drew,

You might look back at vdub's threads /posts on this for some perspective germane to your Gen 2 situation.
One of his suspension mod adventures included installing H&Rs on his SEC.. and a surprise that the drop was less than expected, by a margin.
In these postings you will read the 'original' springs removed were painted red, as I recall... A signature of another 'lowering' springs manufacturer.
These springs were NOT stock at all, therefore creating a false expectation as to the final H&R result.

We had a recent treatise on stock 126 springs, part numbers and paint daubs, according to various 126 models & equipment supplied [adding weight w each addition]...
As I recall, the spring part numbers were similar, only the paint daubs were the final arbiter.

For your reference, my '87 FED spec SEC.. has RED daubs on all 4 springs.
I am pleased with the 36 year old factory offerings still, even after 155K on the odometer.
Yes I have changed numerous ball joints, shocks, bushings, caster joints, suspension mounts, SLS components... Yes, a lot.
It drives, rides better than it did back 20 years ago.

Same springs, about 87K miles later....

Drive fast & Good luck,

MBL

 

[DrewPT]

Hey Drew,

You might look back at vdub's threads /posts on this for some perspective germane to your Gen 2 situation.
One of his suspension mod adventures included installing H&Rs on his SEC.. and a surprise that the drop was less than expected, by a margin.
In these postings you will read the 'original' springs removed were painted red, as I recall... A signature of another 'lowering' springs manufacturer.
These springs were NOT stock at all, therefore creating a false expectation as to the final H&R result.

We had a recent treatise on stock 126 springs, part numbers and paint daubs, according to various 126 models & equipment supplied [adding weight w each addition]...
As I recall, the spring part numbers were similar, only the paint daubs were the final arbiter.

For your reference, my '87 FED spec SEC.. has RED daubs on all 4 springs.
I am pleased with the 36 year old factory offerings still, even after 155K on the odometer.
Yes I have changed numerous ball joints, shocks, bushings, caster joints, suspension mounts, SLS components... Yes, a lot.
It drives, rides better than it did back 20 years ago.

Same springs, about 87K miles later....

Drive fast & Good luck,

MBL

Wow, and your Fed spec car isn't sagging irregularly either front or back?

 

[MBL87560SEC]

Wow, and your Fed spec car isn't sagging irregularly either front or back?

Hey there Drew,

That's correct, original springs front & rear with no sagging at either end.

That said, it DID sag once, heading home from the almighty suspension rebuild at the MB dealer. It sagged bigtime then, and wallowed as if there were at least six very heavy rear passengers, the nose dove under braking as well. Apparently the ride level had not been set correctly after the SLS struts & spheres were replaced. After a proper adjustment, no problems all some 17 years later.

2009

2018

2019

2022

The ride is great driving solo, and never, ever bottoms out with passengers & luggage...

I wish you the best outcome in your SEC suspension efforts..

M