It's true, carquest does have 1/2 shafts for $65. The sad part is that they're only for the 123 and not for a 126. My 300SD has 202K miles on it. Inspection of the rear axles reveal that the rubber is very cracked. My fear is that contaminants may have already permeated the seal. What are the tell-tale signs of problems with the axles? Does anyone make split axle boots for mercedes (like the ones on the air cooled VWs)? It seems that replacing the one-piece boots sold on fast lane is far more work than replacing the axles themselves. Reconditioned axles are mucho bucks and new ones (if you can find them) cost almost as much as my car is worth! (LOL)

Thanks for the wisdom!