clunking front end

[handsworth]

I recently bought a 85 380Se and within 2 weeks of reading the posts here have saved about $1000(DIY)!Car operates beautifully. Now I get to tackle the big one. The front end obviously needs work. When I go over small bumps at crawling speeds, like pulling in the driveway, the front end clunks. Seems to be always on the left side. Also when I apply the brakes like putting the car in drive and pump the brakes, I can feel the brakes clunk. Like I said I really believe most of the parts should be replaced. Is all this something I should just give to a mechanic or is it something I can do myself. Any ideas on costs at the shop? With what I paid for this car and what I've already saved, will $1000 do the trick?

[Stan Pittman]

Sounds like the brake reaction rod bushings are worn out. It is a DIY if you're willing to tackle it. It's not very expensive but it is hard work.

[handsworth]

Brake reaction rod bushings? If you can, can you describe this or tell me where it's located? Thanks

brake reaction rod bushings? where might they be located?

Brother of The Benz, handsworth
There are easy parts you can replace.
Shocks and steering stabilizer.
Tie rod ends.
Idler arm.
Brake components. But I'm not sure what the "brake reaction rod bushing are." There may be another name for them.
Hydraulic brake hoses.
After you tackle the easier parts, try out the more difficult ones like ball joints, lower control arm bushings or assemblies.
Good Luck.
Happy Trails Beep Beep from The Spiderman in Houston!!!

[Stan Pittman]

They are the bushings at the end of the rod coming from the lower control arm towards the rear of the front end. You will see a brace with 3 bolts on each end right under the bell housing.

[engatwork]

I am in the process of replacing the ball joints and tie rods on my 300D and so far found that the tie rods were shot. The rubber was busted and there was no grease. The ball joints look pretty rough but the rubber was not busted and one even squirted grease out when I removed it. I had the "creaking" noise on the front drivers side when going over bumps. Should get it all back together this week and will let ya'll know if the "creak" is gone.
Take a good look at the rubber portion of your tie rods. If they are split try replacing the tie rods first - diyer type of job. I have a tie rod removal tool I would be willing to rent if you are interested.

[400E]

I have no idea about the front ends of W126s like yours, but I do know that W124s are notorious for front end clunks caused by worn sway bar bushings. Mine went out at 75K and were variously misdiagnosed as shock tower bushings or other suspension problems. A relatively cheap and easy fix, if that turns out to be the problem.