99 e320 4matic clunking driveline
 

My 99 e320 4matic with 148K on it has just developed a strange problem. At stops when I go to leave a signal I get a binding and clunking noise from the trans-after 5-mph it goes away and acts normally till the next stop.Seems to be aggravated by the cold weather lately. Any one ever had this problem? Time for a new car? Thanks B

Possibly due to bad motor mounts. Check to see if they are partially collapsed.

Could be worn spider gears in the differential. My 50 year experienced teacher in my driveline class told us that the gear will wear out which would explain the noise.

What happens in this case is the worn gears have extra space. When the transmission is moved to drive the driveshaft moves until pressure is on the gears. If the gears are damaged they will make noise when the car first starts to move (which is when the most pressure is applied to turn the wheels).

It may be this but is may be something else. A good sign is if the car clunks or lurch when trans is put in drive from park.

You may want to inspect your flex discs. Should be done on each B-schedule service.

Did you find anything?

-Tad