Bilstein Shocks/Struts

[Ferdman]

I understand that MB installed stiffer Bilstein Comfort shocks/struts on the 1992 300CE's than the 1991 and earlier 300CE's. Can anyone confirm that fact? I own a 1991 and a 1992 300CE and prefer the slightly firmer ride and handling of the 1992; however, since I bought both used I'm not sure if the PO's ever replaced the shocks/struts. I expect that both cars have the orginal shocks/struts because I purchased the 1992 with 27,000 miles and the 1991 with 99,000 miles. I've read that the Bilstein HD shocks/struts provide a very harsh ride so I don't want to go that route unless the 1992 would happen to have the HD type already. Since I have never replaced shocks/struts on our MB vehicles is there an easy way to determine which type shock/strut is installed currently? Is the model number stamped on the shock/strut in a certain location?

[Robert Goodwin]

Here is the shock absorber data. It is the same for both the 91 and 92 CE. Pay attention to the notes. Looks like I have to do this twicw. Once for the front and once for the rear. Here is the FRONT.

[Robert Goodwin]

And the REAR.

[Ferdman]

Robert, thanks for the information. What is the source for the data?

[Robert Goodwin]

Mercedes.

[Tom Hanson]

Even the comfort setting Bilstein shocks, when new, will seem stiff. They tend to soften up a bit at 100K miles.

[Ferdman]

Tom, are there 2 different Bilstein Comfort shocks/struts available for the 1990 thru 1995 300CE's? I received that information from another source and I'm trying to confirm. I sent you an e-mail several days ago, but apparently you didn't receive it.

[Tom Hanson]

Fred,
All I need is your VIN to determine which shocks you'll need. Did you send the email to my office ? We've had some intermitent server problems. Here's the email address just in case:
hanson_anaheim@mbretailer.com or feel free to call me at 800 252-6877 ext 306.