97 w210 front shift rod bushing replacement
 

Need some advice on replacing the front shift rod bushing on my 97 e320. L6 with 722.6 trans. The rear bushing was easy (accessed through console). Front bushing is ~ 1/2 inch from tunnel and I can not see a way to get any tool in there to press in the new bushing.

I've replaced several on W124's but there is no clearance on this w210.

I have the bushing press pliers but this particular model seems to have the transmission pushed back bit farther into the tunnel narrows due to the L6 (vs the later model v6's which seem to position the bellhousing and transmission a little more forward in the tunnel, providing about 1 1/2 in of clearance.

If anyone can share "the secret" I'd appreciate it.

I thought about combining the job with a trans and motor mount refresh... that would allow me to move the assembly over enough but if there is a less involved solution, I'll take it :-)

Jeff
87 300E
92 400E
97 E320
06 ML350

On just about any MB, it's much easier to remove the shift rod{s} and bracket and replace the bushings on a workbench. No magic tool or heating needed this way - just a bench vise.

Thanks 280EZRider:
I see what you are saying... My concern is the removal of the shift bracket form the side of the transmission.. it's different from by w124 4 speed where I recall the bracket being connected to the transmission with a compression fitting/screw onto a selector shaft....easy to loosen and remove... the 722.6 appears to have a different bracket connection and it's not obvious to me how to remove it... I will do some homework....