All I've ever had apart was the tailshaft housing on my last 220D when it stripped the splines. It was a piece of cake to go that far, but don't remember much else about it. Was several years ago.
Best of luck!

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past MB rides:
'68 220D
'68 220D(another one)
'67 230
'84 SD
Current rides:
'06 Lexus RX330
'93 Ford F-250
'96 Corvette
'99 Polaris 700 RMK sled
2011 Polaris Assault
'86 Yamaha TT350(good 'ol thumper)