[Ralf_CT]

Is it possible to change the front shocks and mountings on a W124 without a spring compressor, i.e. by placing the front of the car on axle stands, removing the wheels and then jacking up the control arm (and loading the spring) on the side where the shock is to be changed?

 

[hamada128]

Yes possible and you don't need to remove the spring to replace the shock. Just put a jack below the control arm to hold the spring compressed. That's how I replaced the shocks with a friend on my W201 which is the same setup like the W124.

 

[dolucasi]

Yes possible and you don't need to remove the spring to replace the shock. Just put a jack below the control arm to hold the spring compressed. That's how I replaced the shocks with a friend on my W201 which is the same setup like the W124.

I did this on my W201 as Hamada mentions. W124 is almost identical from what I hear.
Below is a very cleanly made video on how to replace the strut mounts which gets you 80% there.

Cheers!