Replacing Differential
 

How hard is it to replace the differential? I'm looking at a 124 TD that needs a new one. I can't find it anywhere in the CD manual. Is this a huge job? I can get a new one from the junkyard.

I'd say it's a weekend job. Lots of bushings to consider replacing while you're down there. It might be less work overall to swap in an complete subframe with axles.

I don't think you'll find a 'new' differential at a junkyard ;)

Seriously, check with the experts to determine what other cars have the same diff ratio as your car. Or maybe you want to experiment with a hill climber or freeway flyer.

Sixto
93 300SD

I changed it on my 190. It's really not that difficult, the only thing you may have difficulty with is there is one nut to undo on top of diff. It's absolutely horrendous to get to.
Other than that, everything is logical and obvious.
I don't think there's much difference between the W201 and the W124's rear axles, so it should be pretty similar.
Good luck! :)

I have a diff from a 87 300D. The ratios are different. I show about 9-10mph higher on the speedo than I am actually going. The drive shaft also had to be changed. However, after figuring for the difference I still am getting 29-32MPG.

If I remember, mine is a 2.64. Should be a 3.07.

Sounds like you went to a 3.07 from a 2.64. Showing higher speed than it should means the driveshaft is spinning faster so you have a lower gear ratio.

Will the wrong model differential have any adverse effects on the car? Wheel camber and tread wear maybe?

No, just speedometer accuracy, acceleration and Cruising RPMs

And MPG...

how do you know it needs a new diff?

they are extremely rugged and seldom wear out!

tom w

The owner replaced the transmission and put in a differential from a different MB with a different ratio.

I was looking at a 124 TD- already sold :(.