Leaking trunk
 

I have the usual water in the trunk 123 chassis MBZs seem to have. Is there any consensus on fixing this?

M.

Usually fixed by replacing the rear windshield seal.

The most common found leak there will be the rear windshield as Rick said.
Sometimes though, the trunk seal may leak. Best and fastest way to check that is to have someone you trust standby with a garden hose and climb into the trunk with a flashlight. Close the trunk and have them run water over it. Search for the leak.
Probably you will find water streaming in from the rear window seal. It fails often on these old diesels.

fast and simple...Is the 126 also prone to have the leak caused by the rear windshield gasket?..or is there a different usual cause?

Frank

Is there a fix other than replacing the rear windshield seal?

M.

The 126 rear window seal leaks just as freely as the 123. The seal itself seems to dry out and the rubber fails.
Best to just have it done by a competent glass shop. Some have been able to replace these, but not an easy job and there is plenty to foul up along the way.
I have seen some try RTV and silicone and all sorts of goop to seal the windows. Seems to me none of it is a satisfactory solution.

I went to Harmon Auto Glass (they're everywhere, it seems)
My front windshield was all scratched up - new one installed, $258.58 total
Boughta rear seal for about $65.00. and they pulled the rear window, and re-installed for another $100.00.

No more trunk leaks for me

Best money I ever spent....

Fred
1982 300SD

I've had the same on several cars. It's ALWAYS been solved by replacing the rear windshield gasket (by a reputable glass or body repair shop.)

J.G.

Be advised that on some of our cars there is an updated item on the back glass frame... I have not seen the actual item...only the title of the Tech Bulletin...