What's my best solution to a whiney diff? Are the bearings difficult to install or should I look for a used one? What interchanges?

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Andrew Villasenor
805-720-5057
1984 300D turbo 5-speed manual(daily driver)
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I had a 1973 220D with a whiney rear. I am pretty sure your car uses the same rear. I believe those particular rears were prone to this. I bought a used rear and installed it, and damned if that didn't whine worse. So I bought another used one and installed that and everything was fine thereafter.

Installing one is not rocket science, but it's a half-day job you don't like having to do twice. Back then (1985) new ones were 900 dollars. I should have bought one to start with. I would guess new ones are no longer available.

I wouldn't try to work on one of those third members. Replacing bearings and such. Getting them set up and the clearances adjusted is a professional's job. You really need to know what you are doing.

Richard

Hi Andrew - take a look at the link below to one of our site's DIY tech articles on the W123 diff. Hope this helps!

Mercedes-Benz W123 Differential Mount or Bushing Replacement | W123 (1977-1985) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article

His car is not a 123 and his problem is not the mount or the bushings.

R

A w123 240D differential would work swap in. Both w115 and w123 240D share the same 3.69 geared ratio. But check to be sure what you have on your car.


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1983 123.133 California
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You did not mention checking the fluid level. If the fluid level is rather low filling it up might fix it.

Not that the differential Fill Plugs are often extremely stuck in place.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel