Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: Bill Rader on February 16, 2004, 19:51:10
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Hi group
Is there a through way I can inspect my front suspension and steering?
I would like to replace only parts that need attention.
Would I be better off to drop the coil springs to relieve the tension on the system?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance
Bill Rader
1968 250SL #4765
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Hello Bill,
Check for wear in the king pins and upper link pins by jacking up the car and placing jack stands under the front A-arms close to the wheels. Release the jack leaving the car on the stands. This will load the front suspension. Place one hand on the tire at 12:00 and one hand at 6:00. Check for movement. Movement will indicate wear at the kin pin and upper link pin. Next place one hand at 3:00 and another at 9:00. Movement here will indicate wear in tie rod ends, drag link or idler arm. Confirm movements with visual inspection with a helper if needed. You can tear one side down at a time. You should have a king pin kit, upper link pin kit and lower trunion kit for each side to start with. Some times more parts are needed.
This is heavy duty, dirty, and difficult work. A 1/2" impact gun helps a lot. Sometimes a cutting torch is needed.
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
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great description...
How much movement indicates a kingpin issue? I noticed a slight back and forth movement of the kingpins but not a lot?
Also, how long should kingpins last?
Ken G
1971 280 SL
Silver/red