The Bilstein B1 11-101406 is a front strut boot and bump stop kit from the brand's B1 OE Replacement line. The B1 OE Replacement components are direct replacement suspension parts for your vehicle, and they can extend the operating life of your suspension, including protective dust boots that keep shocks and struts from being damaged. On a 1987 Mercedes-Benz 260E Base, the boot keeps road grit and moisture off the strut shaft, and the bump stop cushions the strut at full compression. Replacing a cracked boot or a crumbling bump stop with a matched Bilstein part is a cheap fix while the strut is already out for service. Owners on user forums argue that factory-spec bump stops keep the ride supple at full compression, and that the harder compound used on sport models is not what most daily drivers want.
This kit is listed for the 1987–1989 260E Base, and the same application lists also include the 1988–1993 300CE Base, 1987 300D Base, 1986–1993 300E Base, 1995 E300 Base, and 1994–1995 E320 Base. Searches for W124 260E front strut boots, Bilstein B1 OE strut bellows, and 1987 260E bump stop replacement tend to bring up this kit, so check your exact model year and chassis before ordering because the year ranges differ slightly between sources. The kit is a service replacement, not a complete strut or shock, so it suits a rebuild where the original struts are staying in service.
The listed applications include the 1987–1989 260E Base, 1988–1993 300CE Base, 1987 300D Base, 1986–1993 300E Base, 1995 E300 Base, and 1994–1995 E320 Base. The year ranges are not identical across sources, so confirm your exact model year and chassis with the manufacturer before ordering.
Owners on user forums quote Bilstein's instructions saying the original bump stop should not be reused where the Bilstein cartridge already has a built-in bump stop. Check how your specific strut is built, and confirm with the manufacturer if you are unsure.
Owners on user forums report that on this platform the boot can be swapped without taking the strut completely out of the vehicle. Keeping the spring compressed while the top hardware is off is the key step.
The manufacturer's installation guidance says Bilstein components require special tools and expert knowledge and should be fitted by a professional suspension technician on a chassis hoist, so treat this as a moderate-difficulty job. Owners on user forums working on the W124 front struts list a 22mm socket, an 8mm hex key, and a 13mm socket for the main strut nut and mount bolts. A deep-offset 22mm box wrench is the one special tool that makes the job easier, besides a spring compressor. Keep the spring under control the whole time, since the spring must stay compressed while the mount nuts and the large top nut are removed. Take the chance to inspect the bump stop for cracks or crumbling foam, because dust from deteriorated foam bump stops can be a sign that the stop has broken down. Always support the vehicle securely with jack stands and never work under it on a jack alone.
