W116 Rear spring saddles

[Oversize]

I noticed that there was a fair bit of dirt that'd built up in the saddles of the rear trailing arms at the base of my struts (6.9). I'd imagine the same would occur with any W116, regardless of whether it has self levelling suspension, or conventional springs. This buildup could cause excessive corrosion, or even limit suspension movement if allowed to remain. After carefully cleaning out with a screwdriver and vacuum cleaner, I noticed a (small) drain hole and a gap between the ball joint mounting plate and the saddle. If these drain holes are kept clean, it's minimise any potential problems....

A view from the top, although the drain holes aren't visible. Note that I removed the dust boot on the strut, as what remained was doing more harm than good.



From below:

 

[Styria]

Hi Mark, thanks for pointing out one of the many facets of maintenance procedures so essential for the 116s in general, and the 6.9 in particular. Unfortunately, time does not appear to have been terribly kind to this particular car of yours, as shown by the state of the components. With the torn rubber boot, it'd be reasonably essential to replace that item as a matter of some urgency to prevent the chromed slider from becoming damaged by dust and debris.

The genuine units will set you back at least $70.00 each (i.e. the rubber boot), but I have successfully fitted BMW boots that are not quite as expensive. Whilst you've got your 'head in that area", check for wear in the bottom ball joint, and this will require that you undo the two 17mm bolts from the bottom strut mount. In addition, replacement or refitting the dust rubbers requires the removal of the ball joint from the strut. You may be able to do this in situ, but I think it unlikely and you may have to remove the strut from the car - this means back seat out, disconnecting the hydraulics etc. Regards Styria

N.B. I am glad it would appear that you're getting stuck into one of your cars. Your illustrations are much appreciated. Incidentally, similar sentiments apply to the front struts as far as 'maintenance' is concerned. The bottom cups have four drain holes and they should also be washed out and blown out from time to time.