Need longer driveshaft
 

My OM603 powered s123 needs a driveshaft I don't have. I was planning on using the stock one (1983 300TD) but it's about two inches too short (even when extending it). The one I pulled from the parts car (1987 300TD) is too long, about 1/2" when fully compressed.

Does anyone know if the front half of an SD (w126) driveshaft is longer than the D (w123)? Could I swap out the front section and get it balanced?

I'd rather not machine down the 87 driveshaft if I can get away it with as the center carrier is in a different position (i.e. needs fabrication to work).

Does anyone know the length of an w126 300SD driveshaft? Overall and front section?

I know the manual 240 font shaft is about 4 inches longer that the 300D. The auto 240d I think it longer also. But I am not clear how much. It might be worth checking into the auto 240d shaft to see if it will work. Or just cut down a manual 240d front shaft and balance the whole assembly.

Its pretty reasonable to have one made up. Maybe $200 or so.