1994 Mercedes E320 wagon Driveline/Driveshaft Issues

[dmorgan]

My 1994 E320 wagon was having some hesitations between shifting the gears. Then the vibrations started and the next thing happened, the one piece of the 2 pieces driveline or draftshaft fell out. I don't know at this time which one is the rear or the front. Luckily, I was only a half mile away from home when the wagon broke down. I had the wagon towed home. I have not been able to jack up the rear end of the wagon at this time.

I did some research on the above issue. Due to the damage done on the driveline/driveshaft/propeller,(propeller twisted, spline bent out of shape, groves on the spline gear smashed and twisted) I went ahead and ordered the two piece driveshaft. The seller marked a line for the two piece shaft for the purpose of correct balance that put the two piece together when lining up the driveline/driveshaft. The correct part number drivelshaft is Mercedes 1244109916, 300E E320 300TE Sedan wagon W124 E class Driveshaft M104, since different part number (1244108916 fits the sedan, not the wagon) does not fit all, especially the 1994 wagon.

I also ordered new 2 flex discs with new bolts and washers. Drive Shaft Flex Joint New Front or Rear OEM Number: 704100015.

Both flex discs and the driveline, 2 piece, already arrived at my home. My concern in regards to flex discs, I noticed three of the 6 holes are higher than the other three. Which side of the disc goes in the propeller on the driveline correctly/properly?

In addition, I also ordered new Mercedes Driveshaft Center Support Hanger Bearing 124 410 02 81. I am still waiting for the part to show up at my home at this time.

Since I have not been able to go under the wagon to inspect the driveshaft at this time, I wonder what additional parts that are needed? I just want to prepare myself ahead of time to know and see what to expect.

Also, the key to the ignition is stuck and not be able to remove. The engine starts fine. The shifting will not move at all to get into park so I can remove the key from the ignition.

I feared that I may have damage the transmission and/or engine as a result of the broken driveshaft and possibly others as well. Only when I inspect the driveshaft and other parts will tell.

I will follow up on this issue and report my findings on this thread. Stay tune.

Any comments/feedback/advice is greatly appreciated.

[97 SL320]

How do you know that the drive shaft fell out but don't know what half?

You really need to get under the car and diagnose before buying parts.