I have a 1999 slk 230 the side differential seal is leaking, while im doing that I figure I might as well replace the side diff bearings, I see tutorials on how to do the wheel hub bearings and how to remove the drive axles but nothing on the side diff bearings. any idea where I ca get this info ? thank you

Recognizing the question was how to replace the side diff bearings...may I suggest leaving them and just replacing the seals. New ones will offer no improvements unless they are bad, they have a low failure rate with a potential for making problems during replacement.

Good luck in whichever you choose!!!

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"Rudeness is a weak man's imitation of strength" - Eric Hoffer

Sounds good to me

i have a 1999 slk 230 and my left side diff seal is leaking, once I remove the driv axle how do I get to it to remove the seal ?

The seal is held in as a press/interference fit into the differential housing. Hook it from behind (going in from the side of the seal that the axle slides into) and pull it out with a seal puller or anything else you can get behind it. Often times they can be collapsed with a hammer and chisel to relieve the interference fit tension. Put the chisel on the outer edge of the seal and drive it toward the center of its hole, then you can get a screwdriver behind it and pry it out the rest of the way.

Be careful not to nick other surfaces, protect them with a lot of tape wrapped around them.

Look at the back of the new seal, if there is a small spring fill the cavity that the spring sets in with a SMALL amount of vaseline in a few places, not the entire cavity just a few places. This prevents the spring from jumping out while driving it in place.

Use a pipe, socket or block of wood to go between the new seal and hammer when knocking it into place. Do not strike the seal directly with the hammer.

Polish and lubricate the stub of the axle with gear oil where it contacts the seal before installation.

Good luck!!!

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"Rudeness is a weak man's imitation of strength" - Eric Hoffer

^ my thoughts exactly.

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Jim

Me three.

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.