Does this driveshaft (spline engagement) look correct? This is the union between the front and rear DS sections on a W123 OM617 with a 717.400 5-Speed.

The photo shows the DS still installed in the donor car. No other driveline disassembly had taken place and the rear subframe was in place. The car was on the lift.

I am reasonably sure that this 5-speed was a transplant from another car. The 300D donor car, shown here, originally left the factory with a 716 4-speed.

All I know about the driving history of this car is that the PO had it for 15K miles and that I took it around for a short drive through all 5 gears after I got it started up. I did not notice any driveline problems.

Attached Thumbnails

     

It is within tolerance, but the spline BOOT is missing..


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The coloured stripes on the shorter shaft look close to being correct

=>

Gearbox comparison & drive shaft lenghts & colour codes - Mercedes-Benz Forum

From the front it should be blue blue red blue => I guess your first blue is rubbed off or under some dirt?

More information here =>

driveshaft length table

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Don't leave that there - I'll take it to bits!

Thank you Whunter and Stretch!

Just found the boot in the EPC. Problem solved.

I don't see any other color bands, but one could have worn off. Thank you for the DS information! I'll have to read up on that.