Rear-Diff problem W202 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Wizo · #1 08-07-2003, 12:17 AM

After my side seal was leaking I went to have it replaced and this is what they found

Wizo · #2 08-07-2003, 12:18 AM

Any ideas on why this occured?

#3 08-07-2003, 07:48 AM

It could be one of a number of things that could have caused that. A weakness or flaw in the ring gear during manufacturing looks like the most reasonable explanation for a small chip to be broken away like that.

Usually if a rear-diff experienced a severe shock (like spinning on ice then suddenly hitting dry pavement, or accelerating hard while hitting a bump) it will clean out a few more teeth than that. I don't think anyone will ever be able to tell you though exactly what happened unless you were to take it and have it x-rayed for any kind of metalurgical weakness.

mbdoc · #4 08-07-2003, 08:01 AM

That is the MOST common failure on the 185MM differential. Very simple to install new differential carrier with the right tools. The casting of the carrier is much softer than the cross-pin for the side gears.

#5 08-08-2003, 01:43 PM

M.B. Doc

you state this is common on this type of rear-diff. Is the same true for the one in my 00 C230? I'm not sure if the 98 280 and my 00 C230 have the same rear-diff. And is this common enough that mercedes has looked into it for a manufacturing process flaw or perhaps a TSB?

mbdoc · #6 08-08-2003, 04:56 PM

Differential failure is VERY low, so when I say failure rate is high for that type of problem maybe 1 out of 20,000.
I have repaired 8-10 differentials with that exact problem.