I have a 1982 380SEL that makes a clunking noise either when the brakes are "loaded" or "unloaded" or if am sitting still and turn the wheel to one side, i get a clunk, clunk, clunk. On another board it was suggested that the brake thrust joints be replaced. I took the car to my local MBZ dealer who wants $1200 to install new "strut rod assemblies". When i go to a parts catalogue, or my service manuals, "strut rods" are not mentioned. Care to diagnose my problem and name the parts I really need?

What they are referring to as the srut rod bushing is the mount on the bottom of the suspension where the caster adjustment is made. This is a common wear item on the 126 chassis as the miles get up over 100k. But, their estimate seems high. Are they making a bid to rebuild the entire front suspension? I can't remember the price, but I've replaced a ton of these and I don't think it's a very expensive job.It is pretty easy stuff for an experienced tech. What condition are the lower ball joints,upper arms,shocks etc.. Remember that all of these pieces wear together, and it is possible that you have more than one item that is worn.

Your strut rod support may be called alot of different names, caster rod mounts, caster buckets, caster strut rod support.
At the front lower control arms is a rod that attaches to a double mount assebly by a threaded rod. This rod is also your caster adjustment when doing a wheel alignment. This is a very common repair for that body style. Their are two ways to do it, one is to remove the strut rod support and just replace it. Second is to pound/press out the old caster support, clean up the hole (air chisel or whatever) then lube and pound the new unit in. Their is a repair kit for this that includes new hardware also. Then your wheel alignment must be done. This is a good time to check tir rods, drag link, steering shock, ball joints and upper control arms for wear... It is not too hard with a lift and the proper tools, but some shops just replace the whole bucket.

------------------