Modern vehicles, especially smart cars with their advanced engineering, often require specialized tools for maintenance and repair. DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike can encounter significant challenges without the right equipment. One common yet complex task is suspension work, particularly strut and shock replacement. This article delves into a real-world experience of tackling such a job and underscores the critical role special tools play in ensuring efficiency and success.
Initially, attempting to remove stubborn, corroded strut nuts using standard impact tools can be a frustrating and time-consuming endeavor. As one DIYer discovered, prolonged hammering with impact tools from a general auto parts store proved ineffective. This highlights a crucial point: generic tools often fall short when dealing with vehicle-specific components, especially those subjected to harsh environmental conditions.
The turning point in this repair story came with the acquisition of a specialized two-piece aluminum clamp designed for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This tool exemplifies the type of specific equipment that can drastically simplify otherwise arduous tasks on modern cars. When properly attached to the strut – requiring only moderate pressure on its four 7mm hex bolts – the clamp provided a secure and effective grip point. Coupled with a large adjustable wrench and a half-inch wrench with a metric socket on the nut, this setup enabled the application of significant force, ultimately loosening the previously immovable nut. The user explicitly stated, “I couldn’t have removed the nut without the MB special tool,” emphasizing its indispensable nature for this particular job. Furthermore, the special tool facilitated the removal of the smaller nut located beneath the larger one, streamlining the process further.
It’s important to note that strut and spring replacement is not solely about specialized wrenches and clamps. Spring compressors are another essential special tool for this type of work. These devices are crucial for safely removing old springs and installing new ones. The compression process is performed while the struts and springs are detached from the vehicle, enhancing safety and control during component handling.
The entire strut and shock replacement job, in this instance, initially spanned over 16 hours, excluding parts sourcing. A significant portion of this extended timeframe was attributed to the struggle with removing the rusted nuts at the top of the struts. However, the experience gained highlights a steep learning curve. The DIYer estimates that with the knowledge and, crucially, the right special tools now at hand, repeating the same job could likely be accomplished in approximately 6 hours. This dramatic reduction in time underscores the profound impact of specialized tools on efficiency and workflow.
The root cause of the extreme corrosion encountered was attributed to the heavy use of salt on roads, a common issue in regions with harsh winters. The vehicle, 7.5 years old with 149,000 kilometers, bore the brunt of these conditions, leading to severely corroded components. In addition to the front struts, the rear shocks and springs were also replaced. This task, completed in approximately 6 hours with the assistance of a helper, also benefited from the lessons learned and likely the application of appropriate tools, although not explicitly detailed in the original account. Notably, the rear suspension work resulted in a 2-inch increase in ride height, a significant adjustment reflecting the condition of the original components.
The ultimate outcome of this comprehensive suspension overhaul was a “tremendously” improved ride quality. This highlights the tangible benefits of investing time and resources into proper vehicle maintenance and repair, especially when utilizing the correct special tools designed for the specific make and model. For smart cars and modern vehicles in general, embracing specialized tools is not just a matter of convenience; it’s often a necessity for effective and efficient repairs, ensuring both safety and optimal vehicle performance.
