R129 How to replace or change trunk (boot) struts / lifts / supports on R129 or other Mercedes Benz
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- Опубликовано: 29 апр 2021
- Step-by-step how-to video to remove and replace the trunk (or boot) lift supports on a R129 Mercedes, including the 300SL, 320SL, 500SL and 600SL for years 1989 to 2001.
The problem as these parts wear is that the trunk or boot no longer stays open, or slams shut.
It's a simple and easy job. What complicates this job compared to other trunk jobs is that you need to remove parts of the trunk carpet. That's where the most time is spent. The videos shows all the steps including removing parts of the carpet so you can easily get access to the trunk struts.
Parts (you will need 2, one for each side):
R129 (VIN to F018805): 129 980 0564
R129 (VIN from F018806) and 1999+: 129 980 0664
Note: Always check with your parts supplier for correct fitment.
Caution:
Make sure you have a helper hold the weight of the trunk or use something sturdy, like a baseball bat to keep the trunk from falling on you.
Always wear protective eyewear for you and your helper, as there is a step to remove a clip that could fly out and hit you.
Car shown is a 1992 Mercedes-Benz 300SL (M104.980)
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Disclaimer - The content of this video is available for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. I do my best to provide accurate and complete information, however, I assume no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from any of the information contained in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Handy Val, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Handy Val always recommends safe practices. 
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Great video. You’ve really explained how to properly replace the supports for the trunk. I will now have a good idea when I replace the ones on my car, they need to be replaced as well.
Thank you. I appreciate it. It’s a rewarding DIY job and you will be very pleased with the results.
Great video very helpful. Did this and replaced a broken parking breaking release handle today.
Good rewarding work! I'm happy to be part of your R129 DIY journey.
thank you so much.. i am from Saudi Arabia and change my sl500 trunk by just flow your steps and naw working fine ..
You’re welcome. I’m happy to help as much as possible.
The trunk struts on my 2000 SL500 failed overnight. There was absolutely no sign or warning that they were on the way out. Many thanks for your video. This should be an easy job. Many thanks again!!
Thanks for watching. It’s common that trunk struts can completely fail without warning. Most of the time they show some sign of coming failure by their lack of lift action. On my Audi hatchback they failed outright one morning and the hatch almost chopped my head off. 😅 Removal and installation is fairly straightforward- the video gives some helpful hints.
Thank you - helpful video.
A small pick type tool seems best for releasing the clips at either end of the struts 👍
Thank you. I agree - those small picks come in handy for this job and many others too. They are a must-have for the tool box!
Ok, I replaced the struts yesterday. The final disposition is that only one of the struts actually failed. Nonetheless, I replaced both. Once I figured out how to leverage the drivers side strut out, the passenger side was even easier. On the passenger side I did not, and could not, get a screwdriver into the lower mounting clip, but I was able to easily “pop” it off using a metal trim clip remover with a long 18” handle. Now the trunk struts operate as they should, which is NOT how they behaved for the 8 years I have owned this car. My muscle memory wants to push the trunk open, whereas in the past, this was necessary. Now, opening the trunk takes a very gentle upward push. Also, on closing, I used to close it half way and let the trunk lid drop. Now the closing operation is a bit different. All is better than great now. Thank you again for your super clear video! Now I need to replace a bunch of O2 sensors. We shall see how that goes. Do you have any advice on doing the O2 sensors?
Thanks for sharing your experience. Struts have the ability to surprise us, as a single reliable strut can maintain the proper functioning of opening and closing the trunk. However, relying solely on one strut places considerable strain on it, leading to a gradual deterioration of its working condition over time. In short, once one goes, the other isn't far behind.
It's smart idea to change your O2 sensors. Depending on the condition of them, and they are usually original, you will notice a general improvement in the car's performance. They get filled with soot over time and lose their ability to do their job well. I wish I filmed my O2 change. It seems like an easy change, it's treaded into the exhaust - how hard can it be? It is a killer to take out, especially if it's original. It will seem like its welded on! I recall using 'claw feet', lots of PB Blaster and I think I loosened the transmission mount so I could get improved access. All this is difficult in tight quarters under the car. This is a change that may be worthwhile to bring to a friendly local mechanic, as it's a lot easier to change with a lift and would only take a small part of an hour, so cost is minimal and a lot safer too. I recommend Bosch (and they're not that pricey) and it's a good idea to go with the proper connector, as opposed to the generic connector. The one with the generic connector is a lot cheaper, but requires more time under the car, splicing into the original connector wires. I hope this helps.
just bought a 92 300sl and you are a guru! thank you for making this content!
Welcome to the R129 world. You will love every minute of it! Thanks for your kind words.
step by step + very clear and useful = thanks a lot
Very helpful. Thanks
You're welcome. Glad it was helpful. Many thanks.
great video! i'm about to do the same. it's not too difficult, but this video was very helpful. thank you! :)
Excellent video, thank you. 👏
Excellent and useful! I would like to add one small point I discovered when I just did this on my 1995 e320 Cabrio. The lower end of the strut fits over a ball, and I found it nigh impossible to get at or even see the tiny black-on-black clip on the end of the strut, but then I noticed that that lower ball is on a flange which it mounted by two nuts which are easily removed with a long sochet / ratchet wrench. With the flange off the mounting screws, the whole strut swings up making it easy to detach the strut and get the replacement on the ball. Much less annoying (damn you, sadists of Stuttgart!!)
Thanks again!
I almost bought a 1995 E320 cabrio! It’s a great looking convertible! Thanks for sharing your experience and advice. It certainly makes the job easier.
Keep the videos coming. I’m waiting for the supports I ordered and coincidently came across your video while looking for a how to video on voltage regulator replacement for an r129.
Thanks. More videos are coming! Smart to replace a voltage regulator before it fails. Now you have me thinking of replacing mine!
excellent video val !!! my sl 500 is slightly different but the same car different engine 5stars keep them coming thanks!!
The R129s are nearly identical (interior - seats, dash, controls, stereo, trunk... and exterior), except for the engine in the centre of the engine bay. The engine bay is similar too (like the coolant reservoir, computer, EZL, camshaft sensor...)
And, PS, I got my replacement struts on Amazon for $12.99 for TWO, they cane in 3 days, look well-made, and fit / work perfectly!
That’s a steal! Too bad that deal wasn’t around when I bought. In my experience cheaper trunk struts have lasted longer and performed better than more expensive ones. I changed them on two of my other cars at the same time about 5 years ago, and the much cheaper ones are performing better. I know it’s not the case most of the time, but in this instance cheaper was better.
Thank you so much for the video! Just got a 99 SL500 with trunk with the issue.
Thank you! And welcome to the R129 world. You’re going to love it!
thank you for this video!
Great Video!!
Great Video! Thx.
Thank"s
Great video, thx for sharing! Trying to find that specific tool kit, any tip or link maybe? Thank you so much.
Jo Mo. The one I use in the video is an Amazon Choice 19Pcs Trim Removal Tool. There’s a number of different brands who sell the exact same kit. Mine was from CEFrank, but identical ones are from beduan, Gooacc and Axelect. And they are identical!! They just vary by color. The seller is different but it's the same manufacturer. If you search these on Amazon.com you’ll find them a few of them. You’ll also want to verify that they include the stereo removal keys - they’re perfect for our vintage of MB. Here is a link to a trim removal set from Amazon's US site: www.amazon.com/Beduan-Removal-Upholstery-Fastener-Remover/dp/B07MCZZS9L/ref=sr_1_17?crid=260PF2BDGAV71&keywords=19+pc+car+trim+set&qid=1645276117&sprefix=19pc+car+trim+set%2Caps%2C946&sr=8-17