@@randygregory5223 I did not re connect the ride height senor in the back so the back height is fine the front is a little high. I can send you a picture if you like.
SInce cars with ABC did not require sway bars how are you going to add sway bars to the suspension to make it work correctly? And who can supply sway bar kits? Thank You
2006 CL500 , did this conversion , you really don't notice much change in ride , buy the abc light fix also. Next I'll install the single stage power steering pump, ABC can turn into a problem child as the car ages, the motor & trans seem to be really solid.
You did a wonderful job explaining yourself thanks I'm hoping to get at least 1 inch higher with the new coil shocks because My air ride shocks doesn't work anymore
To be honest I was actually thinking about doing the oposit, so converting my w164 ML500 without airmatic to airmatic! Airmatic is much more comfortable imo. Besides that the last owner lowered only the front, and bad! (Major negative camber) So I wanted to replace the coils with Brabus lowering coils and thought why not change to full airmatic.... Any thoughts or opinions please? Thanks!
I hope you loaded the suspension before you tighten the inner bolts to the frame end of the control arms. ALWAYS tighten those ONLY when they are at the normal resting position and height or those inner bushings will tear up very fast and you need to replace them in a short time.
Reading the complaints about the Strutmasters conversion on the S-class, I guess it's different for the CL500. I have no complaints about handling though I did do the front sway bar as well and there's rarely (if ever) anyone on the back seat. I have a W140 S500 and prefer that ride over any of the W220's so maybe it's a matter of ride preference. BTW...some of the bolts on the 2000 W215 seem to be different from the ones you encountered. I have female "spline drive" bolts, not "triple square." Also, the only thing I need to "drop" was the control arm and remove the brake caliper. The old strut dropped right out.
G The Barber I honestly DONT recommend strut masters to anyone. They are garbage and their customer service is bad. I only replaced these for a customer because that’s what he bought and wanted on the car. I would look for another set of coilovers made for the W220 chassis. D2 racing may make some as well as BC racing.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Great video. My in laws have a s430 that keeps burning out the air pump. The car keeps going up and down. Also the interior locks are affected with the air pump. That's what the mechanics are telling my in laws so they took out the fuse for the pump. Now the rear end is basically on the ground even if I plug the fuse back in. I was thinking of just doing the rear for them. What are your thoughts and what is decent brand for coilovers? The car only driven short distance don't need anything high performance or sporty. Thanks for any advice!
Preston Mcchesney Pretty much any coilovers you can find for the w220 chassis. I have some on my wife’s CLS (D2 racing) only because there were very few choices and this seemed to fit the bill. They work just fine. Ceika, BC, CXracing should all make a decent coilover for your car.
Not sure if you’re still monitoring, but I’m struggling to reconnect the front lower control arm. It off by like an inch. Is there a trick to lining it back up?
Worst mistake I made. Driving a Mercedes equipped with AirMatic suspension should be a comfortable and soothing experience. After all, the smooth ride of a fine German luxury car is legendary! But as these vehicles age, the active air suspension system develops malfunctions. Here’s my mistake, I replace this luxury ride for the Strutmasters conversion. Strutmasters conversion kit took a beautiful and enjoyable driving luxury automobile to that of a Dodge. Strutmasters didn’t want to help and tried to avoid the issues they have at all costs. I no longer enjoy my Mercedes to the point that I plan to replaced the entire system back to the original Mercedes airmatic. Check them out on yelp and other review sights too see just what other people say before spending your money and wasting your efforts.
You are absolutely right. I did the conversion on my E Class wagon......what a mistake that was. The nice ride was gone, the Strutmonster Springs were not heavy duty enough, and the shock absorbers had an incorrect length, so when loaded the car, the shocks were bottom out....what a disaster!!!! I had to install the original shocks again for the time being. Now finally, I threw out those pseudo springs and went back to the Mercedes air suspension, and looking forward to the accustomed comfortable ride again.
Nice job on that video and audio blast you should have a lift on a car then a jack this way you don't have to lay on the ground// and number two that hose hydraulic hose get two plastic ties and tuck it away do not have it rubbing against the shop out of sight out of mind/// I have a 2002 CL500 and and having real problems mine is two rear sensors and module/// PS nice car!!👍
100% I absolutely do NOT recommend them for the w220 Mercedes as seen in this video. This is the only set I have ever installed and it is definitely the last set I will ever install.
I own a 2006 cls55 amg that I want to do a coil over conversion with. Do you have a video on doing the front and back removal of the airmatic and installation of the d2 coil over?
I don’t. But my wife owned the same car for about 7 years. We just sold it about a year ago. Within 2 months I yanked that crappy airmatic off and did the same D2 racing coilovers.
Be interesting to know. 1) Fault codes and flashing dash lights you get if the system is not deleted. 2) Can you get around faults flashing up by pulling aromatic fuse maybe? 3) The ride. Is it uncomfortable or same really as with airmatic? 4) Height of wheel arches above tyres after install.
1. You can’t get away from the fault codes. 2. You may be able to pull the fuse and the errors go away. Never tried it. 3. It’s far too soft. This car needs sway bars to combat thé excessive body roll. 4. Front sits fine. Rear sits way too high. Footnote: This was a customer’s car. They purchased the strutmasters kit on their own and asked me to install it for them. I personally do NOT recommend you install it.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair The car when i got it was like a boat in corners. Literally the roll is crap and mercedes made this. 😊 Ok so suspension stays up via scan tool a whole night. Then as I pull out for road test its flat instantly only back end. I think its sensor related
What happens when one of the strutmasters goes bad? Is it an over the counter part or does it have to be special order? If so, what are the parts numbers on the front and rear shocks. The main reason I ask is this, if the company ever goes out of business, then that could be a problem. Also there are those who may want to piece together a kit by buying a shock at a time as time and money permits. I'm assuming they are using shocks from a factory vehicle with a similar chassis or suspension.
Hi all, i have a CL55 komp modified to 620bhp and was thinking of replacing my ABC to coilovers, but with all i am reading, i'll surely not use strutmasters. My concern is that when i drive my CL55, it's most of the time fast with fast cornering...top speed of between 240 to 280km/h. I know that the CL series dont come with antiroll bars/ sway bars. My question is... Can i use the antiroll bars off the S500 of the w220 model on my CL55, W215 as they share the same chassis but a bit shorter than the W220 by 8 inch, i believe. So far my ABC system is working fine, but due to its age, and my fast style of driving, i dont want to fail when i am speeding and this can be really bad. Awaiting your reply. Thx Derek
If your ABC system is working you should stick with it. However you can convert to a W220 sway bar setup. You will need to get the correct sway bar, w220 lower control arms, brackets and bushings.
شكرأ ع معلومات انا من سوريا حلب اعمل منذ أكثر من 34 في نظام سسبنشل سيرفيس بمرسيدس . احول نظام عادي امتصور مساعدات تفصيل ع يدي كامل نجاح 100/100 ضمان خمس سنوات
Thank You for the video, it is worth watching. When comparing the ABC ride to the StrutMasters ride/Coilover, which is a better ride? Furthermore, does the Strutmasters provide good stability going around corners at faster speeds? Can you see the differences and are they big (from cruising to fast driving)? Do you need a sway bar?
This car is a customer’s car who bought the strut masters kit without asking me first. I DO NOT recommend buying this kit. Body roll is very noticeable. And the customer service his bad.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair HELLO MY FRIEND, I HAVE A 2001 MERCEDES S500 WITH ABC. WHICH CONVERSION KIT DO YOU RECOMMEND? I WAS ALSO LOOKING INTO STRUTMASTERS. PLEASE HELP! THANK YOU MY FRIEND.
You can google any coilovers for a w220 chassis with ABC. However the problem lies in finding the correct caps to close the ABC lines. There are none that I know of. I don’t think strutmasters sells them separately.
Is there a big ride quality difference after this swap?? I’m wondering because a friend of mine has an S430 and he’s thinking of just doing this to avoid any future issues with the airmatic system.
Anthony Honestly if I were to convert any Mercedes today I would NOT use this kit. I would install coilovers from a different company. I installed these because That’s what the customer brought me to install. I just did the work and didn’t do any research as that wasn’t my place at the time. I have a CLS55 amp as my personal car and I yanked that automatic off first chance I got! Lol I went with d2 racing coilovers. You can use this video as a guide to install any coilovers as the process is still the same.
Helping Hand Auto Repair I already bought this kit on its way according to your video, why you don’t recommend strutmasters? * I have w220 2005 S350 Long
^_HAJ-HAG_^ Their customer support is bad. The ride height of this car ended up being too high in the rear and a little too low in the front. Looked silly. If they were adjustable then it wouldn’t have been a problem. Since they are a fixed ride height the customer was stuck with them. He already had them and I simply installed them for him. I would have told him to go a different route but they would not return them and so he was stuck with them. I have D2 racing coilovers on my W219 AMG and I love them. If you are able to return them I would. I will NOTE that the hydraulic line caps that come with the kit are fantastic! If you are able to buy those separately and return the suspension I would go that route and then opt for a different coilover that is ride height adjustable. I paid $1600 for my suspension and you should be able to find some coilovers for a decent price.
Read the rest of the comments. I only installed this because it’s what the customer (at the time, this video is very old) wanted me to install it. I do not recommend installing this kit. It is very bad. Body roll is horrible.
Probably a silly question and a little unrelated but will the abc engage and function without the car running? I just bought a salvage saggging 02 CL55, has lit up dash. I have a scan tool coming but curious. I charged the battery completely and figured it would get the pump/compressor going. Nothing, not a peep except for the cooling “jet” fan. Anxious to get this beauty back in it’s normal state, this is my first air suspension vehicle.
Sometimes the system will try to compensate for an incline while parked and off. However this happens right when the car is parked on a driveway let’s say. It may try to compensate after it has been parked but after about 10 mins or so it won’t do anything. You would need to start the car to see if the system will pump itself up.
Helping Hand Auto Repair Thank you, that’s my biggest problem at the moment is actually getting it started. (Tested starter/fuel pump relays, charged battery+jump cables, cleaned ECU connectors, tested brake light switch, fuses good, tapped starter, nothings working) Just a rant if a fellow Benz owner had any ideas, sorry to jack the comments. How have the strut masters worked out for you, I’ve heard mixed opinions on them.
dojo this was a customer’s car from awhile ago. Strut masters are crap. Don’t buy them. Do you have lights coming up on the dash when you turn the key? You should jack the car up. Locate the starter. Pull the small signal wire off it and wire someone turns the key, see if you are getting battery voltage at that wire. If so then the starter is bad. If not then you need to check the starter relay.
Helping Hand Auto Repair Yeah I won’t buy them, anything with elite (with the exception of Autel) or masters or best or “the truth” I don’t believe in lol. I didn’t quite understand what you meant between taking the signal wire off and having someone turn the key. Did you mean to take the wire off and test for voltage or jump the starter directly like bench testing? I tested the starter relay and it clicks. I know that doesn’t always mean it’s good but a indication it’s working.
dojo well then there is a wire that actuated the starter solenoid on all modern starters. When the key is turned, there will be a 12v signal telling that solenoid to operate the starter. There are normally two wires on the starter. A large cable that is directly connected to the battery + and then that smaller signal wire. Take off the small wire, grab a test light or DVM. Have someone turn the key as if they were trying to start the car and see if your test lights up or dmv shows battery voltage.
When you do this conversion what do you have to do as far as sway bars since the abc suspension is its own sway bar system? Is there a lot of body roll with the conversion? I have an 03 S55 and I'm done dealing with the abc nightmare on this car lol
Chris Atkinson Yes, you are correct there is no sway bar on these cars. You will notice an increase in body roll when cornering. You probably could reference OE part numbers to see if you could incorporate a stock roll bar but as far as I know, none of these W220 came with traditional shocks and springs and sway bars. You would have to do some research on adding sway bars. This ride is “comfy” ie. Soft. I would recommend this kit just to get away from the ABC totally. You may look into Arnott as well. I believe they make a conversion kit as well. Cheers.
Is the body roll significant or just normal big body car roll? I checked arnott website and all I see listed are stock abc struts. Could you provide a link if possible? Thanks again for your reply. Anything is an upgrade to this overly engineered nightmare suspension lol Haven't found any sway bars offered for the w220 sadly but if the body roll is manageable I'll be fine without the sway bars.
Chris Atkinson I would say the body roll is comparable to stock ABC on the softest setting. If you push the car hard in the corner it becomes considerably noticeable. Then again it really isn’t designed to be pushed SUPER hard in the corners so most probably wouldn’t even notice with everyday driving. This customer likes the way it feels and also likes that he can keep the money IN his pocket instead of writing checks to fix ABC problems every month LOL. If you don’t want to go with strut masters, there are other options to go to an adjustable coil over. I have D2 racing coilovers on my CLS55 AMG. Yanked that crappy automatic off first chance I got. I am unsure if they make a kit for the 220 chassis. I know cieka makes coilovers as well as yellow speed racing. I have not personally installed a set or driven a car with either of these sets. ceika-store.com/products/cct1m457?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlbyw3pGq3QIVELnACh2JbwbaEAQYAiABEgJYpPD_BwE www.yellowspeedeurope.com/yellow-speed-racing-dynamic-pro-sport-coilovers-mercedes-benz-s-class-w220-lwb.html
@@repnatl Tavarish swapped his over to coil overs a while back ago. I can't recall the brand he used for sway bars but I remember watching the post-install and he really enjoyed and recommend it. I think it was for an SL55 however, so probably a no for a swap that could work with the 220, but I'd look in to the company he used for the SB's to see if they made them.
This car had maybe a finger gap between the front fender and tire. Looks good. However the rear sits too high. I personally would NOT recommend the strutmasters kit. It’s crap. I only installed this a long time ago for a customer who had already purchased this kit.
If you use this kit with the light fix module on this chassis. No. If you do a conversion on an airmatic car you will get a ride height too low red screen.
I have a 2011 E550 4matic that I’ve been think about converting. When it gets cold the from of the car sits on top of the tire and doesn’t rise until the weather starts to warm up. I’ve had the front struts replaced. I also have a air suspension. Would you recommend that I convert to normal coils? We’ve been looking at strutmaster because they seem to be the only ones that carry the coils that would fit in my car.
Love your videos you’re great the way you describe things in detail for the typical DYI guy, my question is I have an R2 30 with a left front leaking a Abc shock is it possible to put a regular strut and its place and plug up the pressure line will the car still drive OK? I’m assuming the ABC light will be permanently on; so my question once again is it possible just to replace an ABC strut with a regular aftermarket non-ABC unit ? Is there a kit so the light doesn’t come on and where can I purchase this from, I hope my message is not too confusing I apologize any help would be very much appreciated again your videos are very informative, THANK’S somuch for your time, STEVEO
I currently don’t have a recommendation for plugs for your abc lines as strut masters was the only company I remember selling them in the past. Some have been able to successfully fit a PS pump from a W220 without ABC suspension or you could also leave the tandem pump on the car and just loop the lines together to retain function of the PS system and effectively delete the ABC circuit. As far as swapping on traditional suspension, you can 100% do that. Look for any aftermarket coilovers for your car. Any that you like.
Hey I'm stuck. I can't find replacement air shocks . Need car for dr appointments. What do they think now of these after a few years . Before I order. I can't find right airshocks anywhere and need car. So was thinking I'd just have them do this so I can have car back. Idk or links to anything better. . Any links. Around same cost 850 to 900 Please thank you in advance
@HelpingHandAutoRepair thank you. I think he overlooked the original equipment mounting. He kept ordering shocks and getting the wrong one. He's going to pull it in shop tomorrow wnd check it out agian. Pretty neat. I know I've overlooked things many times so for him to question himself that's cool. No one perfect . I just figure we all learning. I'll have it in my history feeds. I got overwhelmed with idk pricing and I used to be able to kinda do these things in a way just no longer able to.. even getting better I kinda have bigger plans now I'd wanna see happen. So Dr's whatever they are able to do but my situation to complicated. I guess for studies. Just idk. I'm just hanging in. Kinda in for the ride. Being ok.. Very thankful for your kindness and time and much respect to YOU. Not many keep up with questions and for that I am thankful for your response. Just stands Out to the person you are in helping others. Hope hope you have a blessed night.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair ok, just bought the cl600 and it's been neglected, alternator out on it, power steering has a misfire but probably plugs hopefully. lol it has all the issued at once.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair same here. I bought 2 different sizes of the plugs and they were both a few millimeters too small or too big. Tried modifying it but cant get it to fit exactly. But thanks anyway. I'll let you know if I find any.
No sway bar is added which is dumb in my opinion. I would not recommend using this kit. You would have to source a sway bar from another w220 which did it have airmatic which is SUPER rare.
I think any other coilover would be fine. It’s really a problem of controlling body roll. You will need to buy the base model w220 factory sway bars and lower control arms in order to run the sway bars.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair and if i don't got a sway bar i am fine too? do you just install or have you done this for yourself ? there seems to be mixed feelings about the strutmasters or coilovers
I did the conversion on this car of course. If you don’t get sway bars, there will probably still be noticeable body roll. It probably won’t be as bad as the strut masters. the airmatic is designed to handle the extra load placed on the outside corners of the car when it’s turning. Computers add more pressure to combat the rolling forces. However when you switch to coilovers, all that stuff is gone and you are solely relying on the spring rates to stop the car from rolling. Therein lies the problem since you can’t have overly stiff springs or else the car will ride like garbage. So you need sway bars to counteract the rolling forces in addition to stiffer springs to help.
After watching this I’m seriously considering this to some my S55 AMG air ride issues. However I don’t want strutmasters. I want adjustable coil overs that are performance tuned. Any suggestions? Also will sway bars be required as I’m told that these conversion shocks are unique to compensate for the lack of sway bars.
adriann222 You won’t be able to find any sway bars for the W220 as that was designed into the Airmatic. You can switch to coilovers as I have on my W219. There are plenty of coilovers out there to choose from. Probably most common are BC racing and Ceika.
I hope you answer my questions^^ Is that work with w220 model 2004 s280 If it is work, for with model should I bay the coil suspension,, Thanks alot for you video
Hi, excellent tutorial. One quick question I had was would an airmatic to coilover setup work with my CL or would it have to be abc to coilover conversion? Found a good deal on some used coilovers but my vehicle is abc and the kit is airmatic not abc. Seems like it would be the exact same though aside from the hydraulic lines which obviously wouldn’t be used anyway after the swap. Thanks.
Airmatic fronts might bolt up the same. Airmatic rears would most likely mount different on the bottom. Plus you will need a plug to plug up the ABC lines.
I looked at people who installed yellow speed and bc coilovers next to mine (Godspeeds) and they look almost identical. Wouldn’t the hoses be negligible once the pressure is relieved and the pump is changed? They would essentially just there not interfering right?
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Hmmm, looping pumps, I hadn’t heard of that until you just said it. Do you mean to loop in stead of replacing the pump out to a non tandem altogether? Everyone seems to go the replacing pump route with the E class which is identical bolt on.
Yep the e class and s class can just be replaced but if you wanted to save a little money, you can loop the outlet (towards the hydraulic distribution block) to the inlet (back from cycling through all the suspension) and thus not have to remove the pump. Either way has been done.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair thank you greatly appreciate it! Yes it does, has a leak in the passenger side, not too bad, when I hit dips or potholes the “car too low” light comes on for a bit then goes away, gonna take it in to the shop tomorrow to see where the airmatic leak is coming from
hi, my 2006 s600 is giving me a headache. the issue with it is that, it shocks get very violently bouncy and there's alot of squeaky noise from the front suspensions. the rear makes a very hard banging sound when it goes over a speed bump. generally the car is very unstable, rough and noisy on rough roads and speed bumps. please note that i am still on my ABC suspensions.
Anthony Savage If you would like to check out my channel I have a video showing how to replace the fronts and also how to wire up the light fix kit to get rid of the suspension warning lights on the dash.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair I see I watched another video and the guys siad you can put an e500 pump which bolts right on just like the tandem pump. Except it doenst have the ABC side of the system, only Power steering. Thanks
This was a customer’s car. He had already decided on the kit and brought it to me to install it. I personally would not recommend this kit at all. I would look for another coilover or another conversion kit if there is one.
Helping-Thanks for this AMAZING video. After watching this a houswife should be able to replace the strats. And I absolutely agree with you - any non-coil strats are piece of chit because these systems are complex and anything complex is a problem (so many things here are subject to fail, high pressure, too dynamic way of operation, nonstop open/close valves etc= garbage). Do you know by any chance if strats from Audi R8, or Merc ML Jeep or any other strats from these famous car makers would work for a S430 2001y merc? (I heard someone mentioned these models, bu I don't know. Is tere a way to check this out such as Pressure or Force rating on a strat, strat length etc..
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Ok. Do you know if ARNOTT makes these strut conversion kits for this particular model? (S430, year 2001, w/ABC). Most of their kits are for airmatic models. Or is there another US company which makes these kits? Thanks.
www.ebay.com/i/124192951605?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=124192951605&targetid=915852593453&device=m&mktype=pla&googleloc=9032003&poi=&campaignid=10456340317&mkgroupid=101996178605&rlsatarget=pla-915852593453&abcId=2145998&merchantid=6296724&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8a7OrN-76gIVVD6tBh2o1guWEAQYASABEgLjtPD_BwE With these caps here. You should be able to plug the stock ABC lines. After that then you can then buy a set of coilovers (any brand of your choosing) These for example: coiloverdepot.com/products/00-06-mercedes-s-class-w220-jvr-drive-coilovers-sport?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIiKWMzd-76gIVMwPnCh0j3AjVEAQYBiABEgKtu_D_BwE I have been looking for someone to make the abc plugs for years. This guy on eBay seems to have made some that should work. I have not tried them personally since the strut masters kit comes with plugs already. They don’t sell the individually though.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Thanks much for the info. I probably want need these plugs as the ABC lines are already empty (one of the flex hoses which connects to the pump burst at the spot where rubber connects to the metal adapter, happened 2 times already)
Cool video. Looking at converting to coilovers. I've heard people say also fo sway bars ect. Does anyone know exactly what I need. E.g adjustable coilovers. Sway bars ext ect. Do I even need sway bars or is it advised too get them
You need to get the light fix module from strut masters website. Or you could pull the ABC fuse out of the car and you will still get a warning. But it should be a “white” message. That you can scroll past.
Jayonniyy Health unfortunately all the W220 chassis had ABC or airmatic struts. You won’t find any original equipment traditional struts for this car. Only aftermarket coilovers will work.
Jayonniyy Health I DO NOT recommend strut masters. This is a customer’s car. He wanted them installed. They are crappy and their customer service is crappy. Arnott makes conversion kits I believe. Also cieka makes coilovers as well as a few others.
The ABC works great on these Mercedes provided: 1) the owner flushes out the system every 40k miles AT LEAST!!! If you don't have the time, then the owner should take it to the dealership or reputable MB mechanic OTHERWISE you can DIY for piece of mind-->several youtube videos on how to flush the system. I buy 20ltrs (you only need 10 to flush) of Pentosin CHF-11S for $11.45 (after tax per ltr) and the ABC filter for $36 (same part# as MB....my MB dealership charges $57 ).
joe r gonzales Maybe you’re getting lucky. I have replaced MANY failed struts. While I do think ABC is slightly more reliable than Air-matic, I still think they are both crap. Traditional shocks and springs will always be better.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair - I know of guys on MB forums who have over 200k miles on their cars with the ABC systems and they run fine; they just flush out the system religiously. My 2009 SL550 has a tick over 13k miles and I flush it when it starts to not look clear anymore. You're correct in that others have bought used MB cars with such systems but those previous owners DID NOT flush the system regularly due to: 1) daily driving 2) don't have the time therefore--> 3) they neglect it or don't know about it 4) don't have the money to take it to the dealership or 5) don't know how to DIY because lack of knowledge. My car is easy to change the: 1) hydraulic fluid 2) front and rear brakes 3) tranny fluid 4) diff fluid 5) spark plugs 6) oil and oil filter change 7) air filter (2x) 8) cabin filter (2×). I changed out the whole interior lighting to LEDS instead of those amber OEM lights. My car has 2 batteries and both are hooked up to battery tenders and the batteries are OEM but people will tell you that the one in the trunk always goes out. Hmmmm, I wonder why??? I, and some of these guys on the MB forums, are the 1% that DON'T do what the rest of society does.....which is put gas in it and go. I also have a 2009 Sonata with 123k miles on it and DIY the maintenance myself. I took the Sonata to the dealership and just installed Bilsteins all around (lowered the car 1 inch), eibach sport springs, and put on 18in rims (HRE P101's lookalikes) at 122k miles; got a front end wheel alignment. There are people out there that take care of the cars themselves mechanically because of time and knowhow BUT the majority DO NOT....and that's what you and most mom & pop mechanics are dealing with SO it would be fair to say that these ABC systems are "troublesome" so the option is to go to coilovers. Just my 2 cents.
joe r gonzales oh there it is, I could have scripted that myself. The people who say they know yet THEIR car has ONLY 13k miles on it. Lol hit me back when you’re around 80-100k
joe r gonzales Don’t talk about other people’s cars on the forums. We can all quote the forums. I can find MANY threads about ABC failures all over the forums too but I don’t quote that stuff because I work on them all the time. They WILL fail, just a matter of when it happens.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair - by the way, the SL550 is clean....and when I say clean I mean clean. I take out the wheel wells and detail the plastic wheel wheels, suspension, calipers, axles and axle boots, a-arms, hydraulic blocks and lines, and chassis. If my finger fits, it gets cleaned. The undercarriage and chassis looks like new including the exhaust and mufflers. I take out the plastic panels underneath and clean the panels and detail the undercarriage and the same goes for the Sonata. The vehicle on your video is extremely filthy from a suspension and chassis POV but thats just me....attention to detail. I have time, most don't.
Good luck. Most just go to coilovers or buy aftermarket new units. ARNOTT might have some if you check there. Then lastly there is the option of just letting it sit like many people do because they don’t want to invest the money into the car anymore lol.
Strut master is garbage. If your going to do this spend the extra money and get a good set of coilover struts setup. And make sure to add front and rear sway bars...
Spends his days fixing $200,000 cars and showing you how to do the same....still drives a ford Aerostar, like a boss, because he doesn't care what you think
BMW Repair Crew LMAO! Yea that’s my father in laws. Bought it new. It’s just tucked in my garage for safe keeping lol. Still runs, although it doesn’t get driven “too” often.
Helping Hand Auto Repair Nice! Yeah noticed it because that's what my parents drove me around in as a 90s kid! Great work and nice video! I've been looking for a w220 s65 while they are still cheap! In 10-15 years a w220 s65 will be worth something (if suspension and coil packs doesn't break the bank)! Super rare as 06 was the only year. A girl passed me in one on the highway a couple months ago and I tried my best to see if she would stop so I could inquire on buying it, but I gave up after she continued on for 10 miles past my destination. Anyways these are a rare sight to see, cool you got to work on one!
BMW Repair Crew The one you see in this video is mine. I bought it from an auction (I am a car dealer) for $6000 with misfires. I replaced both coil packs as shown on my channel. Then I posted it for sale. Got a good amount for it. I also have a CLS55 amg (also a 1 year only car) I like it but I am working on a bmw right now I hope to have done soon.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Besides the S-class the other car is BMW 750Li Another piece of crap. The bimmer had a coolant leak into the manifold. I forget what part it was but I know they used a plastic part in the manifold that was notorious for failure. $5000-$7000 for the dealer to fix. My in laws sold it for $3500 60k miles. Imaculant condition. Could have parted it out for twice as much. Don't get me wrong. These cars were great when first purchased. About 10 years they are worthless. That's with routine sechulued maintenance from the dealer. Now moved on to the Lexus. Let's see what I'm in for now. LMAO!
This people have a rip off with the so called "conversion kit". They advertise this conversion kit will solve the issue of the expensive airmatic ride in Mercedes Benz. On the contrary, the product is a very low quality, highly expensive replacement part since it does not last more than a year and a half. When you contact them, they say it is not their fault, that they only buy parts from other vendors and put them together and they supposedly do not have any control on the durability of parts. The kit is $1,300 initially and they don't sell just the front or back sets, you have to buy the whole thing. Later on, when it fails, they urge you to buy the whole thing again. And the discounted price they tell you they will give you if anything happens in the future is not true. They charge $586 for each seat, front or rear, which is basically the initial price. I urge all owners of Mercedes Benz to buy the replacement airmatic struts and save the headache of having a below average conversion with a kit that does nothing of what is advertised and really turns your car in a piece of junk that is almost impossible to go back to the airmatic. The movements of the car change and then when the Strutmasters shocks begin to fail they make a horrible squeaking noise that is almost unbearable. I wish I never bought the kit from them. I only had to save a little and buy the real thing, the OEM struts that would last years and years before failing.
Seti Depp I by no means endorse this product. Merely just installed it for a customer that brought them to me. There are multiple other coilover conversion kits for the w220 chassis.
You are 100% correct about the Strutmasters I think they are junk everybody keep telling me to change mind over I love the right of the original Mercedes CL500 is something special about them
no mechanic should endorse this garbage....low grade springs shocks and struts....it wasn't even a month before I had to change the shocks, you don't even know where they get them from, just black shocks with their little sticker on them, I installed Bilsteins B4s, same with the struts, I'll replace those next spring, you can do this conversion for half the price, and you don't need the bypass module they want to sell you, a simple visit to the dealership and they can override the system, I threw mine away, because you can't return them.
Just want to thank you. I just completed my conversion and your list of tools was the key to success!
Glad it helped!
Hey I'm just curious to know that your vehicle have the same height looking to do the same thing thanks
@@randygregory5223 I did not re connect the ride height senor in the back so the back height is fine the front is a little high. I can send you a picture if you like.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepairhello would it raise my car up an inch by changing over
@preslyjune47 it is designed to keep the same ride height however I wouldn’t recommend strut masters at all.
SInce cars with ABC did not require sway bars how are you going to add sway bars to the suspension to make it work correctly? And who can supply sway bar kits?
Thank You
Dang guy, they left you blank.. & that was a good question. 🫢🫢
That was Awesome!! Thank you! You saved me about $2,000
Glad it helps
2006 CL500 , did this conversion , you really don't notice much change in ride , buy the abc light fix also. Next I'll install the single stage power steering pump, ABC can turn into a problem child as the car ages, the motor & trans seem to be really solid.
You did a wonderful job explaining yourself thanks I'm hoping to get at least 1 inch higher with the new coil shocks because My air ride shocks doesn't work anymore
I'm about to put some on my 2006 s430 because my air ride doesn't work and I'm hoping the new coil shocks will raise it up at least 1 inches
Excellent video discussion/demonstration….will be doing a 2002 500CL
I am going to do all 4s for my s500 2006 next week. The airmatics are a nightmare in a country like mine that has bad roads.
Spencer Soyemi check my channel. I also have a video showing how to remove the front shocks.
Don't do it man!!!!
Airmatic and ABC are a nightmare in any country
To be honest I was actually thinking about doing the oposit, so converting my w164 ML500 without airmatic to airmatic!
Airmatic is much more comfortable imo. Besides that the last owner lowered only the front, and bad! (Major negative camber) So I wanted to replace the coils with Brabus lowering coils and thought why not change to full airmatic....
Any thoughts or opinions please? Thanks!
Don’t. Just switch to a traditional Mercedes coils and shocks or a coilover setup.
I hope you loaded the suspension before you tighten the inner bolts to the frame end of the control arms. ALWAYS tighten those ONLY when they are at the normal resting position and height or those inner bushings will tear up very fast and you need to replace them in a short time.
Reading the complaints about the Strutmasters conversion on the S-class, I guess it's different for the CL500. I have no complaints about handling though I did do the front sway bar as well and there's rarely (if ever) anyone on the back seat. I have a W140 S500 and prefer that ride over any of the W220's so maybe it's a matter of ride preference. BTW...some of the bolts on the 2000 W215 seem to be different from the ones you encountered. I have female "spline drive" bolts, not "triple square." Also, the only thing I need to "drop" was the control arm and remove the brake caliper. The old strut dropped right out.
I’m considering a sway bar for my cl500 as well. Where did you get yours? And how easy was the installation?
Purchasing a 500 and needs 1 of the air shocks replaced so I want to do this conversion good vid very spot on
G The Barber I honestly DONT recommend strut masters to anyone. They are garbage and their customer service is bad. I only replaced these for a customer because that’s what he bought and wanted on the car. I would look for another set of coilovers made for the W220 chassis. D2 racing may make some as well as BC racing.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Great video. My in laws have a s430 that keeps burning out the air pump. The car keeps going up and down. Also the interior locks are affected with the air pump. That's what the mechanics are telling my in laws so they took out the fuse for the pump. Now the rear end is basically on the ground even if I plug the fuse back in. I was thinking of just doing the rear for them. What are your thoughts and what is decent brand for coilovers? The car only driven short distance don't need anything high performance or sporty.
Thanks for any advice!
Preston Mcchesney Pretty much any coilovers you can find for the w220 chassis. I have some on my wife’s CLS (D2 racing) only because there were very few choices and this seemed to fit the bill. They work just fine. Ceika, BC, CXracing should all make a decent coilover for your car.
The bright red color is crazy looking
Not sure if you’re still monitoring, but I’m struggling to reconnect the front lower control arm. It off by like an inch. Is there a trick to lining it back up?
Worst mistake I made. Driving a Mercedes equipped with AirMatic suspension should be a comfortable and soothing experience. After all, the smooth ride of a fine German luxury car is legendary! But as these vehicles age, the active air suspension system develops malfunctions. Here’s my mistake, I replace this luxury ride for the Strutmasters conversion. Strutmasters conversion kit took a beautiful and enjoyable driving luxury automobile to that of a Dodge. Strutmasters didn’t want to help and tried to avoid the issues they have at all costs. I no longer enjoy my Mercedes to the point that I plan to replaced the entire system back to the original Mercedes airmatic. Check them out on yelp and other review sights too see just what other people say before spending your money and wasting your efforts.
Damn I've put 1500 mi on mine they lowered some but my Lexus ride better an it's got lowering springs
You are absolutely right. I did the conversion on my E Class wagon......what a mistake that was. The nice ride was gone, the Strutmonster Springs were not heavy duty enough, and the shock absorbers had an incorrect length, so when loaded the car, the shocks were bottom out....what a disaster!!!! I had to install the original shocks again for the time being. Now finally, I threw out those pseudo springs and went back to the Mercedes air suspension, and looking forward to the accustomed comfortable ride again.
Nice job on that video and audio blast you should have a lift on a car then a jack this way you don't have to lay on the ground// and number two that hose hydraulic hose get two plastic ties and tuck it away do not have it rubbing against the shop out of sight out of mind/// I have a 2002 CL500 and and having real problems mine is two rear sensors and module/// PS nice car!!👍
Was considering Strutmaster Struts for my VW b5.5 Passat wagon..read good reviews about them but maybe depends on the vehicle you are buying them for
100% I absolutely do NOT recommend them for the w220 Mercedes as seen in this video. This is the only set I have ever installed and it is definitely the last set I will ever install.
Helping Hand Auto Repair I might give them ago for my Passat. I do like the idea that the springs are made in the USA.
@@TopSecretVid go for it.
I own a 2006 cls55 amg that I want to do a coil over conversion with. Do you have a video on doing the front and back removal of the airmatic and installation of the d2 coil over?
I don’t. But my wife owned the same car for about 7 years. We just sold it about a year ago. Within 2 months I yanked that crappy airmatic off and did the same D2 racing coilovers.
Fronts are pretty straightforward. Rears you need the correct lower control arms.
nice and well explained
Be interesting to know. 1) Fault codes and flashing dash lights you get if the system is not deleted. 2) Can you get around faults flashing up by pulling aromatic fuse maybe? 3) The ride. Is it uncomfortable or same really as with airmatic? 4) Height of wheel arches above tyres after install.
1. You can’t get away from the fault codes.
2. You may be able to pull the fuse and the errors go away. Never tried it.
3. It’s far too soft. This car needs sway bars to combat thé excessive body roll.
4. Front sits fine. Rear sits way too high.
Footnote: This was a customer’s car. They purchased the strutmasters kit on their own and asked me to install it for them. I personally do NOT recommend you install it.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair The car when i got it was like a boat in corners. Literally the roll is crap and mercedes made this. 😊
Ok so suspension stays up via scan tool a whole night. Then as I pull out for road test its flat instantly only back end.
I think its sensor related
Thx for the video, but how to bypass the sensor showing error on the instrument cluster?
Egner Konstantin check my channel. I have a video there in the Mercedes playlist.
Helping Hand Auto Repair can give the link 🙏🏻
Egner Konstantin m.ua-cam.com/video/Li7XZfFTHC8/v-deo.html
Thanks for the imfor. Can you feel any different in the ride or handling when you convert over?
This is a customer’s car I do for him. I simply performed the work for him. I WOULD NOT recommend strutmasters for this car. It rides poorly.
What happens when one of the strutmasters goes bad? Is it an over the counter part or does it have to be special order? If so, what are the parts numbers on the front and rear shocks. The main reason I ask is this, if the company ever goes out of business, then that could be a problem. Also there are those who may want to piece together a kit by buying a shock at a time as time and money permits.
I'm assuming they are using shocks from a factory vehicle with a similar chassis or suspension.
Staying Focused For Jesus This is information you can find on their website I’m sure.
You need to buy the entire kit of 4 struts. They don't sell individual parts
Hi all, i have a CL55 komp modified to 620bhp and was thinking of replacing my ABC to coilovers, but with all i am reading, i'll surely not use strutmasters. My concern is that when i drive my CL55, it's most of the time fast with fast cornering...top speed of between 240 to 280km/h. I know that the CL series dont come with antiroll bars/ sway bars. My question is... Can i use the antiroll bars off the S500 of the w220 model on my CL55, W215 as they share the same chassis but a bit shorter than the W220 by 8 inch, i believe.
So far my ABC system is working fine, but due to its age, and my fast style of driving, i dont want to fail when i am speeding and this can be really bad.
Awaiting your reply. Thx Derek
If your ABC system is working you should stick with it. However you can convert to a W220 sway bar setup. You will need to get the correct sway bar, w220 lower control arms, brackets and bushings.
what about the esp system does it afficted by replacing the kind of suspension?
Alii Aliii yes it will. That’s why you need the light fix module
Can you make a video on how to do the light fix from the air strut?
I believe you need to bypass them with sims. Check Arnott suspension.
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Thank You for the video, it is worth watching.
When comparing the ABC ride to the StrutMasters ride/Coilover, which is a better ride? Furthermore, does the Strutmasters provide good stability going around corners at faster speeds?
Can you see the differences and are they big (from cruising to fast driving)? Do you need a sway bar?
This car is a customer’s car who bought the strut masters kit without asking me first. I DO NOT recommend buying this kit. Body roll is very noticeable. And the customer service his bad.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair HELLO MY FRIEND, I HAVE A 2001 MERCEDES S500 WITH ABC. WHICH CONVERSION KIT DO YOU RECOMMEND? I WAS ALSO LOOKING INTO STRUTMASTERS. PLEASE HELP! THANK YOU MY FRIEND.
I don’t recommend strutmasters. This kit was provided to me by the customer so i installed it for him.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Oh okay. Which Coilover Kit do you recommend then?
You can google any coilovers for a w220 chassis with ABC. However the problem lies in finding the correct caps to close the ABC lines. There are none that I know of. I don’t think strutmasters sells them separately.
Is there a big ride quality difference after this swap?? I’m wondering because a friend of mine has an S430 and he’s thinking of just doing this to avoid any future issues with the airmatic system.
Anthony Honestly if I were to convert any Mercedes today I would NOT use this kit. I would install coilovers from a different company. I installed these because That’s what the customer brought me to install. I just did the work and didn’t do any research as that wasn’t my place at the time. I have a CLS55 amp as my personal car and I yanked that automatic off first chance I got! Lol I went with d2 racing coilovers.
You can use this video as a guide to install any coilovers as the process is still the same.
Helping Hand Auto Repair I already bought this kit on its way according to your video, why you don’t recommend strutmasters?
* I have w220 2005 S350 Long
^_HAJ-HAG_^ Their customer support is bad. The ride height of this car ended up being too high in the rear and a little too low in the front. Looked silly. If they were adjustable then it wouldn’t have been a problem. Since they are a fixed ride height the customer was stuck with them. He already had them and I simply installed them for him. I would have told him to go a different route but they would not return them and so he was stuck with them. I have D2 racing coilovers on my W219 AMG and I love them. If you are able to return them I would.
I will NOTE that the hydraulic line caps that come with the kit are fantastic! If you are able to buy those separately and return the suspension I would go that route and then opt for a different coilover that is ride height adjustable. I paid $1600 for my suspension and you should be able to find some coilovers for a decent price.
Helping Hand Auto Repair understood, thanks for your reply man I wish you all the best ツ
On an S65🤯🤯🤯🙆🏿♂️...... I'm so curious to the results of the handling on such a massive rocket.....please share if you received this. 🙏🏿
Read the rest of the comments. I only installed this because it’s what the customer (at the time, this video is very old) wanted me to install it. I do not recommend installing this kit. It is very bad. Body roll is horrible.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair
Thank you.... APPRECIATE YOUR RESPONSE!!! 😉😉
Any idea how to stop the malfunction code that keeps coming up after replacing it with something like that ! Please help if you have any tricks
You need to use the light fix wiring that is found on my channel under the Mercedes playlist.
Excellent video
This kit required a full 4 inches cut to get it down to stock ride height...
Robert Herndon sadly that’s probably true lol. Good thing this car wasn’t mine.
such a good video !
I've got the W220 S55 what, coilover conversion did you go with? did you remove the factory hydraulic lines
865_Rostislav This video pertains to the strutmasters Conversion Kit. The hydraulic lines stay in place. They are just capped off.
Your hydraulic lines stay a metal cat go over them
What will we do with the air pump? They are still running and causing wasting energy (fuel)
This car has a hydraulic pump. If you’re doing a conversion on a car with airmatic, just unplug the air compressor.
Can i just buy the plugs for quick disconnect by themselves?
Not that I’m aware of. Been trying to look around online. No luck.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair alright...thanks.
Excellent video!
I must admit I skipped through it to see the points I wanted to see but what's the deal with anti roll bars?
Won’t have any. Unless you get base model w220 lower control arms, sway bar and end links.
Great video looking to do the same thing just curious to know did you still have the same height on the vehicle
No. Height was very off. High in the back and low in the front
Probably a silly question and a little unrelated but will the abc engage and function without the car running? I just bought a salvage saggging 02 CL55, has lit up dash. I have a scan tool coming but curious. I charged the battery completely and figured it would get the pump/compressor going. Nothing, not a peep except for the cooling “jet” fan. Anxious to get this beauty back in it’s normal state, this is my first air suspension vehicle.
Sometimes the system will try to compensate for an incline while parked and off. However this happens right when the car is parked on a driveway let’s say. It may try to compensate after it has been parked but after about 10 mins or so it won’t do anything. You would need to start the car to see if the system will pump itself up.
Helping Hand Auto Repair Thank you, that’s my biggest problem at the moment is actually getting it started. (Tested starter/fuel pump relays, charged battery+jump cables, cleaned ECU connectors, tested brake light switch, fuses good, tapped starter, nothings working) Just a rant if a fellow Benz owner had any ideas, sorry to jack the comments. How have the strut masters worked out for you, I’ve heard mixed opinions on them.
dojo this was a customer’s car from awhile ago. Strut masters are crap. Don’t buy them. Do you have lights coming up on the dash when you turn the key?
You should jack the car up. Locate the starter. Pull the small signal wire off it and wire someone turns the key, see if you are getting battery voltage at that wire. If so then the starter is bad. If not then you need to check the starter relay.
Helping Hand Auto Repair Yeah I won’t buy them, anything with elite (with the exception of Autel) or masters or best or “the truth” I don’t believe in lol.
I didn’t quite understand what you meant between taking the signal wire off and having someone turn the key. Did you mean to take the wire off and test for voltage or jump the starter directly like bench testing? I tested the starter relay and it clicks. I know that doesn’t always mean it’s good but a indication it’s working.
dojo well then there is a wire that actuated the starter solenoid on all modern starters. When the key is turned, there will be a 12v signal telling that solenoid to operate the starter. There are normally two wires on the starter. A large cable that is directly connected to the battery + and then that smaller signal wire. Take off the small wire, grab a test light or DVM. Have someone turn the key as if they were trying to start the car and see if your test lights up or dmv shows battery voltage.
When you do this conversion what do you have to do as far as sway bars since the abc suspension is its own sway bar system? Is there a lot of body roll with the conversion? I have an 03 S55 and I'm done dealing with the abc nightmare on this car lol
Chris Atkinson Yes, you are correct there is no sway bar on these cars. You will notice an increase in body roll when cornering. You probably could reference OE part numbers to see if you could incorporate a stock roll bar but as far as I know, none of these W220 came with traditional shocks and springs and sway bars. You would have to do some research on adding sway bars. This ride is “comfy” ie. Soft. I would recommend this kit just to get away from the ABC totally. You may look into Arnott as well. I believe they make a conversion kit as well. Cheers.
Is the body roll significant or just normal big body car roll? I checked arnott website and all I see listed are stock abc struts. Could you provide a link if possible? Thanks again for your reply. Anything is an upgrade to this overly engineered nightmare suspension lol Haven't found any sway bars offered for the w220 sadly but if the body roll is manageable I'll be fine without the sway bars.
Chris Atkinson I would say the body roll is comparable to stock ABC on the softest setting. If you push the car hard in the corner it becomes considerably noticeable. Then again it really isn’t designed to be pushed SUPER hard in the corners so most probably wouldn’t even notice with everyday driving. This customer likes the way it feels and also likes that he can keep the money IN his pocket instead of writing checks to fix ABC problems every month LOL.
If you don’t want to go with strut masters, there are other options to go to an adjustable coil over. I have D2 racing coilovers on my CLS55 AMG. Yanked that crappy automatic off first chance I got. I am unsure if they make a kit for the 220 chassis. I know cieka makes coilovers as well as yellow speed racing. I have not personally installed a set or driven a car with either of these sets.
ceika-store.com/products/cct1m457?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlbyw3pGq3QIVELnACh2JbwbaEAQYAiABEgJYpPD_BwE
www.yellowspeedeurope.com/yellow-speed-racing-dynamic-pro-sport-coilovers-mercedes-benz-s-class-w220-lwb.html
Use a sway bar and lower control arms for a W220 with Airmatic suspension, that is all you need
@@repnatl Tavarish swapped his over to coil overs a while back ago. I can't recall the brand he used for sway bars but I remember watching the post-install and he really enjoyed and recommend it. I think it was for an SL55 however, so probably a no for a swap that could work with the 220, but I'd look in to the company he used for the SB's to see if they made them.
What does the car look like when it’s dropped on the ground? I’m curious because I want to see the gap between the fenders and the wheel.
This car had maybe a finger gap between the front fender and tire. Looks good. However the rear sits too high. I personally would NOT recommend the strutmasters kit. It’s crap. I only installed this a long time ago for a customer who had already purchased this kit.
Might be a little late here. But if you do conversion to coilovers will it throw troubleshoot codes ?
If you use this kit with the light fix module on this chassis. No.
If you do a conversion on an airmatic car you will get a ride height too low red screen.
I have a 2011 E550 4matic that I’ve been think about converting. When it gets cold the from of the car sits on top of the tire and doesn’t rise until the weather starts to warm up. I’ve had the front struts replaced. I also have a air suspension. Would you recommend that I convert to normal coils? We’ve been looking at strutmaster because they seem to be the only ones that carry the coils that would fit in my car.
I do not recommend strut masters. I would look into other coilovers.
I have the same exact strut but they seem like they're too long is there any way to compress them
Shorter springs.
Love your videos you’re great the way you describe things in detail for the typical DYI guy, my question is I have an R2 30 with a left front leaking a Abc shock is it possible to put a regular strut and its place and plug up the pressure line will the car still drive OK? I’m assuming the ABC light will be permanently on; so my question once again is it possible just to replace an ABC strut with a regular aftermarket non-ABC unit ? Is there a kit so the light doesn’t come on and where can I purchase this from, I hope my message is not too confusing I apologize any help would be very much appreciated again your videos are very informative, THANK’S somuch for your time, STEVEO
I currently don’t have a recommendation for plugs for your abc lines as strut masters was the only company I remember selling them in the past.
Some have been able to successfully fit a PS pump from a W220 without ABC suspension or you could also leave the tandem pump on the car and just loop the lines together to retain function of the PS system and effectively delete the ABC circuit.
As far as swapping on traditional suspension, you can 100% do that. Look for any aftermarket coilovers for your car. Any that you like.
Thank you How much for responding, it was very helpful you’re a very nice man thank you, keep the videos coming you’re very informative.STEVEO
Hey I'm stuck. I can't find replacement air shocks . Need car for dr appointments. What do they think now of these after a few years . Before I order. I can't find right airshocks anywhere and need car. So was thinking I'd just have them do this so I can have car back. Idk or links to anything better. . Any links. Around same cost 850 to 900
Please thank you in advance
@justinforeman6042 airmatic shocks can be replaced with arnott units. Check them out.
@HelpingHandAutoRepair thank you. I think he overlooked the original equipment mounting. He kept ordering shocks and getting the wrong one. He's going to pull it in shop tomorrow wnd check it out agian. Pretty neat. I know I've overlooked things many times so for him to question himself that's cool. No one perfect . I just figure we all learning. I'll have it in my history feeds. I got overwhelmed with idk pricing and I used to be able to kinda do these things in a way just no longer able to.. even getting better I kinda have bigger plans now I'd wanna see happen. So Dr's whatever they are able to do but my situation to complicated. I guess for studies. Just idk. I'm just hanging in. Kinda in for the ride. Being ok..
Very thankful for your kindness and time and much respect to YOU. Not many keep up with questions and for that I am thankful for your response. Just stands Out to the person you are in helping others. Hope hope you have a blessed night.
Will this fix all the ABC issue!? It seems the power steering pump can't handle everything, mine gone out again on Cl600
If you replaced the pump with an aftermarket pump, they are not as good as the Mercedes OE pump. Buy a Mercedes OE pump.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair ok, just bought the cl600 and it's been neglected, alternator out on it, power steering has a misfire but probably plugs hopefully. lol it has all the issued at once.
They are expensive to maintain. That’s why it is how it is. Good luck.
Is there a specific name for the plug you used in the disconnect end?
Not really unfortunately. Strutmasters was the only company I knew of making them. I haven’t found any other company that makes them so far.
Do you need to code out the rear shock or anything?
Not with the light fix module shown on another video on my channel
25:50...do you have the size of that plug for the quick disconnect? or a part #?
I don’t. It only comes with the strut masters kit. I have been looking all over for years and still haven’t found one
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair same here. I bought 2 different sizes of the plugs and they were both a few millimeters too small or too big. Tried modifying it but cant get it to fit exactly. But thanks anyway. I'll let you know if I find any.
I was wondering will this cause the airmatic light to go on?
Yes
does arnott make coversion kits too? or what do you like to use?
did you add a sway bar too?
No sway bar is added which is dumb in my opinion. I would not recommend using this kit. You would have to source a sway bar from another w220 which did it have airmatic which is SUPER rare.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair what do you think of the NEOMAX? coilovers?
I think any other coilover would be fine. It’s really a problem of controlling body roll. You will need to buy the base model w220 factory sway bars and lower control arms in order to run the sway bars.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair and if i don't got a sway bar i am fine too?
do you just install or have you done this for yourself ? there seems to be mixed feelings about the strutmasters or coilovers
I did the conversion on this car of course. If you don’t get sway bars, there will probably still be noticeable body roll. It probably won’t be as bad as the strut masters.
the airmatic is designed to handle the extra load placed on the outside corners of the car when it’s turning. Computers add more pressure to combat the rolling forces. However when you switch to coilovers, all that stuff is gone and you are solely relying on the spring rates to stop the car from rolling. Therein lies the problem since you can’t have overly stiff springs or else the car will ride like garbage. So you need sway bars to counteract the rolling forces in addition to stiffer springs to help.
After watching this I’m seriously considering this to some my S55 AMG air ride issues. However I don’t want strutmasters. I want adjustable coil overs that are performance tuned. Any suggestions? Also will sway bars be required as I’m told that these conversion shocks are unique to compensate for the lack of sway bars.
adriann222 You won’t be able to find any sway bars for the W220 as that was designed into the Airmatic. You can switch to coilovers as I have on my W219. There are plenty of coilovers out there to choose from. Probably most common are BC racing and Ceika.
Coilovers do away with a need for swaybars
do you have an update?
people who converted complain about the looks
and car lowering??? at low speeds
the ride is not the same either
I hope you answer my questions^^
Is that work with w220 model 2004 s280
If it is work, for with model should I bay the coil suspension,,
Thanks alot for you video
If your car has ABC suspension then yes this will work.
Hi, excellent tutorial. One quick question I had was would an airmatic to coilover setup work with my CL or would it have to be abc to coilover conversion? Found a good deal on some used coilovers but my vehicle is abc and the kit is airmatic not abc. Seems like it would be the exact same though aside from the hydraulic lines which obviously wouldn’t be used anyway after the swap. Thanks.
Airmatic fronts might bolt up the same. Airmatic rears would most likely mount different on the bottom. Plus you will need a plug to plug up the ABC lines.
I looked at people who installed yellow speed and bc coilovers next to mine (Godspeeds) and they look almost identical. Wouldn’t the hoses be negligible once the pressure is relieved and the pump is changed? They would essentially just there not interfering right?
Correct. You would have to change power steering pumps or loop the pump outlet and inlet together.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Hmmm, looping pumps, I hadn’t heard of that until you just said it. Do you mean to loop in stead of replacing the pump out to a non tandem altogether? Everyone seems to go the replacing pump route with the E class which is identical bolt on.
Yep the e class and s class can just be replaced but if you wanted to save a little money, you can loop the outlet (towards the hydraulic distribution block) to the inlet (back from cycling through all the suspension) and thus not have to remove the pump. Either way has been done.
Thoughts on arnott conversion kit? Gotta 04 s500, Considering doing a swap.
Arnott OVER strutmasters all day long.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair awesome! How much would a typical repair shop cost for the labor/installation? I’m out here in CA
It will vary. I would say at least 10 hours of work @ $150-200/hour.
Does your car have Airmatic? 10 hours would be minimum labor.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair thank you greatly appreciate it!
Yes it does, has a leak in the passenger side, not too bad, when I hit dips or potholes the “car too low” light comes on for a bit then goes away, gonna take it in to the shop tomorrow to see where the airmatic leak is coming from
hi, my 2006 s600 is giving me a headache. the issue with it is that, it shocks get very violently bouncy and there's alot of squeaky noise from the front suspensions. the rear makes a very hard banging sound when it goes over a speed bump. generally the car is very unstable, rough and noisy on rough roads and speed bumps. please note that i am still on my ABC suspensions.
Rogba Fayose Does it shake around at random on its own?
يجب فصل طرمبة زيت عن جهاذ التعليق والا يكسر جسم مضخة هيدروليك
ممكن سؤال محتاج مساعدتك اخوي اذا تكرمت بخصوص هيدروليك sl500 بس حاب اخفي العلامه الي تطلع بالطبلون
Thank you
How you do the fronts
Anthony Savage If you would like to check out my channel I have a video showing how to replace the fronts and also how to wire up the light fix kit to get rid of the suspension warning lights on the dash.
Where do you go to just replace the strut shock
The dealership or another aftermarket supplier.
Does is go the same with the w219 cls 550 ?
CLS would be similar. You would need to see what conversion kits there are.
I would go with coilovers over strutmasters. I don’t recommend them at all. I only installed them because that’s what the customer brought.
So you cant remove all the ABC lines fully?
You just cap the ends?
This kit comes with caps. So that you can leave the lines in place. If you remove the lines, you will have hydraulic leaks from the tandem P/S pump.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair I see
I watched another video and the guys siad you can put an e500 pump which bolts right on just like the tandem pump. Except it doenst have the ABC side of the system, only Power steering.
Thanks
Yep
Nice video. How have the strutmasters held up? I'm debating doing the conversion for my 2005 S430. Thank you.
This was a customer’s car. He had already decided on the kit and brought it to me to install it. I personally would not recommend this kit at all. I would look for another coilover or another conversion kit if there is one.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair thanks for your response. Can you recommend any other company? I'm having difficulty finding one. Appreciate your help.
Well the problem won’t be in finding a set of coilovers (just google W220 coilovers) it’s finding the ABC hydraulic line plugs. No one makes them.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair why dont you recommend strutmasters?
@@legodude960 the customer service is awful. Also the kit needs to include sway bars OR use slightly stiffer springs. The body roll is atrocious.
Helping-Thanks for this AMAZING video. After watching this a houswife should be able to replace the strats. And I absolutely agree with you - any non-coil strats are piece of chit because these systems are complex and anything complex is a problem (so many things here are subject to fail, high pressure, too dynamic way of operation, nonstop open/close valves etc= garbage). Do you know by any chance if strats from Audi R8, or Merc ML Jeep or any other strats from these famous car makers would work for a S430 2001y merc? (I heard someone mentioned these models, bu I don't know. Is tere a way to check this out such as Pressure or Force rating on a strat, strat length etc..
Not that I know of. There are other suspension options such as coilovers.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Ok. Do you know if ARNOTT makes these strut conversion kits for this particular model? (S430, year 2001, w/ABC). Most of their kits are for airmatic models. Or is there another US company which makes these kits? Thanks.
www.ebay.com/i/124192951605?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=124192951605&targetid=915852593453&device=m&mktype=pla&googleloc=9032003&poi=&campaignid=10456340317&mkgroupid=101996178605&rlsatarget=pla-915852593453&abcId=2145998&merchantid=6296724&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8a7OrN-76gIVVD6tBh2o1guWEAQYASABEgLjtPD_BwE
With these caps here. You should be able to plug the stock ABC lines. After that then you can then buy a set of coilovers (any brand of your choosing)
These for example:
coiloverdepot.com/products/00-06-mercedes-s-class-w220-jvr-drive-coilovers-sport?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIiKWMzd-76gIVMwPnCh0j3AjVEAQYBiABEgKtu_D_BwE
I have been looking for someone to make the abc plugs for years. This guy on eBay seems to have made some that should work. I have not tried them personally since the strut masters kit comes with plugs already. They don’t sell the individually though.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Thanks much for the info. I probably want need these plugs as the ABC lines are already empty (one of the flex hoses which connects to the pump burst at the spot where rubber connects to the metal adapter, happened 2 times already)
Oh ok.
Cool video. Looking at converting to coilovers. I've heard people say also fo sway bars ect. Does anyone know exactly what I need. E.g adjustable coilovers. Sway bars ext ect. Do I even need sway bars or is it advised too get them
You need sway bars unless you’re gonna run some very stiff springs to try and control the body movement.
@Helping Hand Auto Repair appreciate that. I will get some ordered up thank you
So the external torx bolt, is it a 14 or an 18? E14 or E18?
I’m sorry this was awhile ago. I believe it is an E14
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair got it, thanks again.
Hi,where you buy this coils,and how much cost you,thanks?
This is a customer’s car. He bought them from strutmasters. Just google that name. I personally don’t recommend them.
thanks,I find\yellowracing
Where can I get the caps for the hydraulic hose?
Faizon Medina good question. Try strut masters website
They didn’t have any
Hey Do You Think A Coilover Conversion Kit For 2000-2006 S430 Will Fit On A 2000 CL500?
2000-2003 W220 front shocks are the same. However the rear shocks are different so the definitive answer is no.
Good job..
I did that to my car and I have a light on my dast that say CAR IS TOO LOW TAKE IT TO WORK SHOP... How can I take that away. ?
You need to get the light fix module from strut masters website. Or you could pull the ABC fuse out of the car and you will still get a warning. But it should be a “white” message. That you can scroll past.
Wats the name of the hydraulic plug. And how much plug i need?
You got it. 4 of them.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair it jus need the plug ware can I buy them
No one I know sells just the plugs. Strut masters was the only company making them. I don’t think you can buy them separately.
Hey what kind of regular struts will work on a 2001 Mercedes Benz s500
Jayonniyy Health unfortunately all the W220 chassis had ABC or airmatic struts. You won’t find any original equipment traditional struts for this car. Only aftermarket coilovers will work.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair this that the brand I can use to convert from having air struts to coil spring struts
Jayonniyy Health I DO NOT recommend strut masters. This is a customer’s car. He wanted them installed. They are crappy and their customer service is crappy. Arnott makes conversion kits I believe. Also cieka makes coilovers as well as a few others.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair hey does a 2003 Mercedes Benz s500 have any interchangeable parts with a 2001 Mercedes Benz s500.
Jayonniyy Health in regards to what?
I did this to mine
hey which suspension is that? i mean red
Strutmasters
Hello, can I communicate with you about converting a Mercedes w220 s600 from hydraulic to normal?
What do you need to know?
@@HelpingHandAutoRepairWhere can I find this comment system that I linked on the Mercedes w220
@@HelpingHandAutoRepairI want to contact you on WhatsApp.
If your car has ABC suspension, you can buy this strutmasters kit. I don’t like the kit, but the kit has the correct hydraulic line plugs.
Great video, but an unfortunate travesty when people decide to go to coil overs.
FrankO Coilovers are much more reliable.
Meh....not when the cost of an ABC repair exceeds the value of the car, which happens frequently as these cars age and drop in price.
Does it trigger a abs light?
edgar Gt not with the correct module. It’s on another video on my channel.
Good vid thanks.
Awesome video! Do you know if this is similar process on the SL500?
Kenneth Delgado The R230 (2001-2011) SL will be fairly similar up front. The rear won’t be the same.
thanks!!!!
The ABC works great on these Mercedes provided: 1) the owner flushes out the system every 40k miles AT LEAST!!! If you don't have the time, then the owner should take it to the dealership or reputable MB mechanic OTHERWISE you can DIY for piece of mind-->several youtube videos on how to flush the system. I buy 20ltrs (you only need 10 to flush) of Pentosin CHF-11S for $11.45 (after tax per ltr) and the ABC filter for $36 (same part# as MB....my MB dealership charges $57 ).
joe r gonzales Maybe you’re getting lucky. I have replaced MANY failed struts. While I do think ABC is slightly more reliable than Air-matic, I still think they are both crap. Traditional shocks and springs will always be better.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair - I know of guys on MB forums who have over 200k miles on their cars with the ABC systems and they run fine; they just flush out the system religiously. My 2009 SL550 has a tick over 13k miles and I flush it when it starts to not look clear anymore. You're correct in that others have bought used MB cars with such systems but those previous owners DID NOT flush the system regularly due to: 1) daily driving 2) don't have the time therefore--> 3) they neglect it or don't know about it 4) don't have the money to take it to the dealership or 5) don't know how to DIY because lack of knowledge. My car is easy to change the: 1) hydraulic fluid 2) front and rear brakes 3) tranny fluid 4) diff fluid 5) spark plugs 6) oil and oil filter change 7) air filter (2x) 8) cabin filter (2×). I changed out the whole interior lighting to LEDS instead of those amber OEM lights. My car has 2 batteries and both are hooked up to battery tenders and the batteries are OEM but people will tell you that the one in the trunk always goes out. Hmmmm, I wonder why??? I, and some of these guys on the MB forums, are the 1% that DON'T do what the rest of society does.....which is put gas in it and go. I also have a 2009 Sonata with 123k miles on it and DIY the maintenance myself. I took the Sonata to the dealership and just installed Bilsteins all around (lowered the car 1 inch), eibach sport springs, and put on 18in rims (HRE P101's lookalikes) at 122k miles; got a front end wheel alignment. There are people out there that take care of the cars themselves mechanically because of time and knowhow BUT the majority DO NOT....and that's what you and most mom & pop mechanics are dealing with SO it would be fair to say that these ABC systems are "troublesome" so the option is to go to coilovers. Just my 2 cents.
joe r gonzales oh there it is, I could have scripted that myself. The people who say they know yet THEIR car has ONLY 13k miles on it. Lol hit me back when you’re around 80-100k
joe r gonzales Don’t talk about other people’s cars on the forums. We can all quote the forums. I can find MANY threads about ABC failures all over the forums too but I don’t quote that stuff because I work on them all the time. They WILL fail, just a matter of when it happens.
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair - by the way, the SL550 is clean....and when I say clean I mean clean. I take out the wheel wells and detail the plastic wheel wheels, suspension, calipers, axles and axle boots, a-arms, hydraulic blocks and lines, and chassis. If my finger fits, it gets cleaned. The undercarriage and chassis looks like new including the exhaust and mufflers. I take out the plastic panels underneath and clean the panels and detail the undercarriage and the same goes for the Sonata. The vehicle on your video is extremely filthy from a suspension and chassis POV but thats just me....attention to detail. I have time, most don't.
Has anyone been able to find rebuilt abc struts /pump for a decent price?
Good luck. Most just go to coilovers or buy aftermarket new units. ARNOTT might have some if you check there. Then lastly there is the option of just letting it sit like many people do because they don’t want to invest the money into the car anymore lol.
Can you adjust those coilovers ???
Chad Saengalam no
Hi .. I want to replace the air shock absorbers. Normal .. Where do I buy it? For Mecedes S 350 2004. Thanks in advanceHelping Hand Auto Repair
You can always get them from the dealership of course. I would suggest checking out a company called Arnott.
Helping Hand Auto Repair
Thank you.👍👍😀
I sent Arnott an email ... and they have none. They only have air shock absorbers ..
That man snitched and pointed lmaoooo
Strut master is garbage. If your going to do this spend the extra money and get a good set of coilover struts setup. And make sure to add front and rear sway bars...
Couldn’t agree more. This wasn’t my car.
What’s a good affordable set for 2004 s500
@donpizzle702 stock suspension is best. OE
Where can I purchase the plug for the air hose
Should be on strutmasters’ website.
Spends his days fixing $200,000 cars and showing you how to do the same....still drives a ford Aerostar, like a boss, because he doesn't care what you think
BMW Repair Crew LMAO! Yea that’s my father in laws. Bought it new. It’s just tucked in my garage for safe keeping lol. Still runs, although it doesn’t get driven “too” often.
Helping Hand Auto Repair Nice! Yeah noticed it because that's what my parents drove me around in as a 90s kid! Great work and nice video! I've been looking for a w220 s65 while they are still cheap! In 10-15 years a w220 s65 will be worth something (if suspension and coil packs doesn't break the bank)! Super rare as 06 was the only year. A girl passed me in one on the highway a couple months ago and I tried my best to see if she would stop so I could inquire on buying it, but I gave up after she continued on for 10 miles past my destination. Anyways these are a rare sight to see, cool you got to work on one!
BMW Repair Crew The one you see in this video is mine. I bought it from an auction (I am a car dealer) for $6000 with misfires. I replaced both coil packs as shown on my channel. Then I posted it for sale. Got a good amount for it. I also have a CLS55 amg (also a 1 year only car) I like it but I am working on a bmw right now I hope to have done soon.
Helping Hand Auto Repair nice! I'll have to check out your coil pack vid
@@HelpingHandAutoRepair Besides the S-class the other car is BMW 750Li
Another piece of crap. The bimmer had a coolant leak into the manifold. I forget what part it was but I know they used a plastic part in the manifold that was notorious for failure. $5000-$7000 for the dealer to fix. My in laws sold it for $3500 60k miles. Imaculant condition.
Could have parted it out for twice as much. Don't get me wrong. These cars were great when first purchased. About 10 years they are worthless. That's with routine sechulued maintenance from the dealer. Now moved on to the Lexus. Let's see what I'm in for now. LMAO!
Why mess up the ride..the air shocks are no longer expensive they are everywhere online for great prices and they are very easy to install yourself..
Idk if you saw. This video was uploaded 2 years ago. Airmatic and air shocks in general will always suck IMO. Doesn’t matter how cheap they are.
Taking off air suspension doesn’t ruin anything.
Don’t do it it’s a bodge just repair the air suspension properly as the car is designed to have air suspension and not normal shocks and springs
Пособие как превратить из супер подвески в колхозную бричку😢
This people have a rip off with the so called "conversion kit". They advertise this conversion kit will solve the issue of the expensive airmatic ride in Mercedes Benz. On the contrary, the product is a very low quality, highly expensive replacement part since it does not last more than a year and a half. When you contact them, they say it is not their fault, that they only buy parts from other vendors and put them together and they supposedly do not have any control on the durability of parts. The kit is $1,300 initially and they don't sell just the front or back sets, you have to buy the whole thing. Later on, when it fails, they urge you to buy the whole thing again. And the discounted price they tell you they will give you if anything happens in the future is not true. They charge $586 for each seat, front or rear, which is basically the initial price. I urge all owners of Mercedes Benz to buy the replacement airmatic struts and save the headache of having a below average conversion with a kit that does nothing of what is advertised and really turns your car in a piece of junk that is almost impossible to go back to the airmatic. The movements of the car change and then when the Strutmasters shocks begin to fail they make a horrible squeaking noise that is almost unbearable. I wish I never bought the kit from them. I only had to save a little and buy the real thing, the OEM struts that would last years and years before failing.
Seti Depp I by no means endorse this product. Merely just installed it for a customer that brought them to me. There are multiple other coilover conversion kits for the w220 chassis.
You are 100% correct about the Strutmasters I think they are junk everybody keep telling me to change mind over I love the right of the original Mercedes CL500 is something special about them
no mechanic should endorse this garbage....low grade springs shocks and struts....it wasn't even a month before I had to change the shocks, you don't even know where they get them from, just black shocks with their little sticker on them, I installed Bilsteins B4s, same with the struts, I'll replace those next spring, you can do this conversion for half the price, and you don't need the bypass module they want to sell you, a simple visit to the dealership and they can override the system, I threw mine away, because you can't return them.
@@papo1515 I would have bought them why did you throw them away! I would have purchased them!
This is a big mistake
WHY IS THAT IS IT BECAUSE IT NEEDS SWAY BARS?