'77 W116 450SEL 6.9 (M100). Rear suspension is sagging. Spheres clearly tired. Comparing sphere sources:
Pelican is significantly cheaper. Is the Hydraulik branded sphere identical to the MB branded one? Or is there a quality difference?
Leo - excellent question with a clear answer.. hydraulik AG (German manufacturer) is the OE supplier to Mercedes-Benz for the W116 6.9 spheres. The Mercedes-Benz branded sphere and the Hydraulik branded sphere come off the same production line in Lampertheim, Germany. Same casting, same diaphragm, same nitrogen charge..
Mercedes-Benz Australia paid the OEM supplier wholesale + Australian distribution margin + retail margin. Pelican paid the OEM supplier wholesale + US distribution + Pelican margin. The end product is identical. Pelican's $215 is the better deal for the same physical part.
The only reason to buy via McStarparts (Mac, 0418 636 ***): if you want the genuine MB box, paper, and Stuttgart parts-archive provenance for a concours-grade restoration. For a driver-grade car, Pelican is correct.
Mac is a M.A.L.A.K.A.S.-trusted supplier and won't be offended if you tell him the price comparison - he'll often match Pelican if you walk in.
Billy - Mac matched at $240 each (better then Pelican landed once you add shipping $95). 4 spheres ordered. Cheers..
