SLS Spring Conversion Kit Interest? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

propigskin · #1 11-08-2005, 11:25 PM

I am an owner of a 300TD, as many of you are.

Most here have dealt with a good system (SLS), but when it breaks, it is very expensive to fix. Also, it is not the most practical system in the world. As it was a good concept, it is still pretty overcomplicated.

Instead of spending hundreds and possibly thousands in the future to repair a sagging rear end, I decided that going with a conventional suspension is the rear was the best idea instead of fixing the SLS.

You have probably read about using sedan shocks and springs. Great idea but the sedan springs are still not tall enough for the rear since the springs are narrower but only 10mm taller. Others have used air shocks or coil overs with the combination of sedan springs but it still has left some to be desired.

I have spent the last couple weekends dealing with this and experimented. We have come up with a custom pair of rear coil springs that also use the sedan type rear shocks. Our rear springs level the car out and after a couple hundred miles the car rides wonderful and handling is great. No bottoming out on dirt roads or train tracks. Our springs have a thicker coil than the sedan or wagon springs.

I know there are hundreds of 300TD wagon owners who are in need of a perfect alternative to the SLS rear suspension. I will be putting some more miles on the vehicle and depending on the interest be selling the custom springs and shocks as a combo or seperately. Installation is very easy and requires ZERO modifications. I wanted to post this to gauge interest on the product and possibly get a list of interested people together. I will try and get some photos posted this weekend of the finished product.

Thanks
Erik

JimmyL · #2 11-09-2005, 12:04 AM

I don't mean to rain on your idea, as there are probably folks interested, but I enjoy the SLS on both of my wagons so much I just felt I needed to chime in.
First, I don't feel that they are overcomplicated. Actually a fairly basic hydraulic system. More complicated than a coil spring I guess, but nothing like the ACC unit.
I feel like the parts can be found for not that much $ either. Luckily, the system components last for quite some time, and replacing the accumulators is about the expense of nice shocks. I just got a hydraulic pump a couple of weeks ago for $50 bucks shipped from a nice person on this forum whose identity I lost in our system crash here.
And you will never duplicate the ride characteristics. It is a good effort, and one I'm sure some folks will utilize, but man that SLS is nice.
Good luck, and I'm glad you're testing. Keep us posted.

Quote:

Originally Posted by propigskin

I am an owner of a 300TD, as many of you are.

Most here have dealt with a good system (SLS), but when it breaks, it is very expensive to fix. Also, it is not the most practical system in the world. As it was a good concept, it is still pretty overcomplicated.

Instead of spending hundreds and possibly thousands in the future to repair a sagging rear end, I decided that going with a conventional suspension is the rear was the best idea instead of fixing the SLS.

I know there are hundreds of 300TD wagon owners who are in need of a perfect alternative to the SLS rear suspension.
Thanks
Erik

propigskin · #3 11-09-2005, 12:21 AM

Your right, it is not heavily overcomplicated but you do have 2 shocks, 2 accumulators, a valve, pump and a bottle, plus lines. Seals wear our and these parts brand new can get costly. Buying used parts saves big bucks but you are always taking a risk on something used. The cost of the set of custom springs will only be about the price of one new shock for the SLS. The engine compartment and rear ends sure look great with all that gone. I love the idea of something I don't have to worry about leaking and I love seeing less clutter. The car with the SLS not working did not ride/handling good but with these springs, the ride/handling in the rear is wonderful.

Erik

t walgamuth · #4 11-09-2005, 07:32 AM

with both of you. depending on the use and budget.

how much you selling the spring kit for? i dont have a wagon at present, just curious.

tom w

R Leo · #5 11-09-2005, 07:35 AM

But what's going to happen to that rear wheel camber when you load 300-400 lbs of stuff in the cargo area and another 500 or so on the hitch? FWIW, I use my wagon for what it was intended: cargo transport and utility service.

The SLS is well worth repairing because it enables the wagon to manage a wide range of loads without compromising the handling of the vehicle.

t walgamuth · #6 11-09-2005, 07:47 AM

yeah

if i had a wagon and was using for everyday use on the highway and everything i would fix it all stock.

but if i had a low budget car that i was going to use mostly around town and not taking long trips with a heavy load i wouldnt feel bad about converting it to springs.

my $.02

tom w

propigskin · #7 11-09-2005, 02:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by R Leo

But what's going to happen to that rear wheel camber when you load 300-400 lbs of stuff in the cargo area and another 500 or so on the hitch? FWIW, I use my wagon for what it was intended: cargo transport and utility service.

The price of the set of springs will be in the mid 200 dollar range. Cheaper than one new hydraulic shock for the SLS system.

We have loaded close to 500 pounds in the back with no ill effects to rear wheel camber. So far, our springs have been the best alternative to the SLS known today. SLS is a cool thing but IMO these springs make more sense in the long run for durability, cost, and reliability.

I will get some pictures posted this weekend and I know you guys will be impressed.

Thanks again,
Erik

Any questions, please post them!

R Leo · #8 11-09-2005, 02:12 PM

I'm looking forward to seeing these.

dmorrison · #9 11-11-2005, 02:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by propigskin

. Installation is very easy and requires ZERO modifications. Erik

What are you doing about the Hydraulic pump?

Dave

rcounts · #10 12-11-2009, 01:46 PM

I was curious if anyone has ever tried using sedan springs AND air shocks. With a 12v low-volume high-pressure on-board compressor and a valve or two, seems to me like you could have the best of both worlds. Adjustability for load handling, AND an inexpensive alternative to the pricey SLS components...

Whiskeydan · #11 12-11-2009, 02:00 PM

Paging RichC...

propigskin · #12 02-10-2010, 07:18 PM

Sedan springs will not work. They are light duty and too short...

I have sold roughly 10+ kits and everyone has been happy...

You remove the SLS system- install my heavy duty springs and 300 sedan type shocks and your good to go. I sell the springs for 225 shipped. I have excellent ebay feedback and can take paypal or money order. Any interest--- PM me or email me at propigskin@aol.com

babyjames · #13 02-10-2010, 11:41 PM

Which sedan springs? If you use the ones from a W116 SD sedan then they work/fit very nicely indeed. Use in combination w/"three tit" pads and HD shocks.

Jay.

propigskin · #14 02-12-2010, 05:10 PM

After reading about all the sedan spring issues- not being heavy duty enough I came with with my springs. Yes, im sure it would fit, but its not correct.

babyjames · #15 02-12-2010, 11:37 PM

Neither are yours. The W116 springs work perfectly.

Jay.