W126 1986 300SDL with 300,000 miles.
Whenever I undertake a "large" repair I try to do my due diligence and attempt to expect foresee issues and I expect it with a car of this age.

Well, as always, unexpected issues have reared it's ugly head. My most pressing issue right now is the flex disc. I see, that in order to remove the inner most bolt on the driver's side trailer arm, I have to remove the rear flex disc.

I thought I could just remove the rear flex disc and that would be it. Nope, this is what brings me here. To drop the driveshaft and to get the rear flex disc off, do I have to remove the FRONT flex disc or should I remove the middle bracket which secures the the driveshaft or do I have to do both.

There may be a simple answer to this seemingly simple question. But, I've spent the last few hours on my back and I need to take a break so I thought I would throw the question out there before I go back under the car.

As much as I expect issues, it gets pretty frustrating at times.

Thanks!

Well, I think I got it.
Have you ever just needed a break? To gather your thoughts. Going back under, I dropped the middle bracket and the drive shaft dropped, so I think I kind of got it, Unless someone can tell me otherwise.

Sometimes walking away and coming back makes a big difference.

You ain't kidding.
Sometimes a cold beer and a deep breath...
Thanks!

Glad that you were able to address this! In the future, check out our tech articles on the W126; hopefully it'll save you another headache

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 (1981-1991) Technical Articles - Pelican Parts


-Dmitry

Thanks Dmitri,

I read a whole bunch of articles, I must have just missed the part about the bolt and removing the passenger side trailing arm.
Sometimes when I think something is straight forward I don't read the fine print.

Again, thanks.

And note that the drive shaft halves have markings and are supposed to go back in the same relative position. Also note that this may be a good time to inspect &/or replace the flex disks and perhaps the center bearing and/or carrier. You really don't want the flex disks letting go. There are 2 centering bushings, one on each end that may be shot.

The drive shaft is not fun the 1st time on your back broke down in the heat. Tackling it at your convenience would be preferable. Look at a diagram and make sure that I didn't leave any wear parts out. All are available for purchase. Buy quality parts.

__________________
85SD 240K & stopped counting painted, putting bac together. 84SD 180,000. sold to a neighbor and member here but I forget his handle. The 84 is much improved from when I had it. 85TD beginning to repair to DD status. Lots of stuff to do.

I would have thought that you might could slide the rear ds into its splines enough to drop it out of your way.

__________________
[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

Sometimes when you sleep on something that works too.

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1982 300SD

Hey Junkman.

The u joints and the flex discs are fine.
You're right, now is the time to replace and also I did mark the way everything was attached.

Thanks!

Dwayne

t walgamuth,

I would have thought so also, but, nope had to drop the drivetrain a bit.

Anyway, it worked in the end.

Thanks!

Dwayne