Work on the 126, SLS

[TJ 450]

I decided that today was best spent getting stuck into the 126.

I removed the self leveling struts and spheres, as well as giving the underside a good clean. I'm not after concours appearance yet, but I was mightily impressed with the condition of the underside. There was just a bit of dirt, but nothing like what I'm used to.

The struts will receive new bellows/gaiters, and I was surprised to see the ball joints in excellent condition. The spheres were cactus.

Without any of this equipment, the car really is a trampoline.

This car has the standard rear end, with steel control arms and no anti-squat.







For anyone wanting to do this on their 116, the hardest part about removing the struts is getting the back seat out.

The struts will fit through the holes in the trailing arms, and the tapered bit at the top allows you to cant the strut and pull it out on an angle. You must have the flex hoses and upper mount bushes/washer removed though.

All in all, it was quite a satisfying removal job. Now I just need to purchase some parts.

Tim

[s class]

Its nice when one is pleasantly surprised at the findings when stripping.  It doesn't usually happen though. 

[TJ 450]

I think ultimately, it depends on where the car has spent its life and how its owners have treated it. This car started out in Clare, South Australia and came to WA circa 1996.

It's not unlike my 6.9, but has the advantage of being a bit younger, as well as having very straight panels.

It won't take much to get it to a very respectable state mechanically, with the minor setback of a few $$$$. I'm afraid my emotional attachment to the vehicle defies logic.

Then it will be back to the 6.9, to rebuild the front end and ultimately the bodywork.

In two week's time I'll be getting the 450's immaculate heads back. It will be good to experience a freshened up M117.

Tim

[s class]

Nothing wrong with being attached to the 126.  I am really quite fond of my wifes W202 - even though its a base model c180 manual with manual windows etc.  The appeal of the car is the remarkable honest, untouched condition of everything. 

[TJ 450]

That's the kind of car to own condition wise. Also, it can be very practical to have the base model.

Tim