I really appreciate the input from all of you very much. It is unfortunate that Mercedes-Benz has taken the dishonorable decision not to admit to an obvious design and/or fabrication error. Designing the connecting rod would be a challenge because you want it to be light and tough and it is fatigue loaded. But to pretend there is no problem seems wrong.

Now one thing I forgot to mention is that Jack's wife is rather hefty and he takes her everywhere. She weighs about the difference between a W126 SDL and W140 SD. Some people think the extra weight is a factor. I hate to be the one to suggest it but...........could Jack's wife be the rod bender here?

I am a hair's breadth from buying the car myself just to see what is up with it? But please, if you have any more insight, I will aprpeciate the benefit of your experience. I promise I will report back when Jack's car is properly sorted out.

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JMF