The time has come to replace the front struts in my ’80 245DL.

I’ve looked in the archives and got some good info from there, but I still have a few questions, and I want a few opinions.

First off, since I’ll have to be taking the springs off, should I go for an upgrade from a 260/Diesel? What exactly is the difference between the two types? (I know one set of springs is stiffer, but what effect will that have on my ride?)

While I have the car up, I plan on replacing the tie rod ends as well.

I’m just waiting for the IPD garage sale next month so I can pick up all this stuff cheaper.

Any recommendations on which struts I should go for?

What kind of special tools am I gonna need to do this job?

I’ll have more questions soon, but I figured I’d start here.

Thanks, as always.
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If you listen to the radio in Portland, OR, you may know me as 'Portland's Favorite Soul Brother!'