axle stuck in differential - it won't come out. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

240Joe · #1 05-13-2002, 07:44 PM

I know this is the second post on this subject, but I am trying to find out if any of the professionals on this forum have ever seen the problem of an axle being stuck in the differential. I've tried everything to free it, but nogo.

The differential is truely shot, the hole where the rod goes in has over 3/8 inch of play, causing 3.5 inches of play at the tire tread.

Car is 1983 300D with 132kmiles.

Joe

Jason Bradley · #2 05-14-2002, 03:51 PM

It once took me and 3 other guys guys 2 hours to get one axle out of an old diff. So it might be a PITA but you can do it.

Pull the other axle to give more play and undo the drive shaft as well.

Potomac Pat · #3 05-14-2002, 04:25 PM

Just out of curiosity. Did you pull the backing plate and remove the retaining rings inside?

240Joe · #4 05-14-2002, 06:38 PM

yes, the back plate and retaining clips have been removed, along with the whole differential (it needed replacdment)

I've given up on getting the axle out of the differential. I used a crow bar yesterday, and it didn't move. Maybe if I had another man or two, we could get it out.

I'm sure the axle is trashed, so why bother.

thanks
Joe

Potomac Pat · #5 05-15-2002, 08:11 AM

Well with that being said, I would recommend changing the axle shafts as well. It is just good preventive maintenance to keep your (W123) in top shape.

dap · #6 05-27-2002, 09:32 AM

I'm in the middle of replacing axle shafts on my 85 300TD.

Is it possible to take the rear cover off the differential with out dropping the differential? I can't get to the top bolt on the cover.

Advice please

phil

240Joe · #7 05-27-2002, 10:13 AM

Yes you can get the cover off without dropping the diff. you might have to take the rear mount off to give you clearance to get something on the upper cover bolts.

Good Luck

Joe

Alex Vantu · #8 05-27-2002, 04:58 PM

What you need is a good size sliding hammer puller. you can get this tool at any auto parts store. This tool is the magic trick for the job.
Alex

dap · #9 05-29-2002, 08:27 PM

Simple minded as I am, I had my jack stands located under the main support beams. When I removed the bolts to the diff. support, it wouldn't lower to give me room to remove the top bolts of the diff. cover.

I placed the jack stands in a different location, the diff. lowered as it should and all went well. Everything came apart and together with ease, axle shaft in and running smooth.

thanks.

Phil