I've been trying to nail down a suspension issue in my 85 190E 2.3 and I think I've got it...so I want to run it by the experts.

Problem: Thunk sound on turns or speed bumps or sharp curves, coming from the left side of the front. Direction of turn was irrelevant...speed bump only affected left side.

Inspection: I checked anti-sway bar (looked and felt tight), all rubber bushings and control arm. The front left lower ball joint boot was not very pliable and seemed to contain no grease. Front right boot was pliable, resiliant and seemed in good shape.

Diagnosis: Deteriorating left lower ball joint. No swelling, yet, so no rust.

Solution: Replace front lower ball joint. Till then, I plan to grease the joint and fabricate a boot (duct tape, electrical tape...I haven't decided yet) just to dampen the sound and annoyance. It will be some time till I can get around to getting it fixed, though.

What do yall think?

- John

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John J. Meadows
'83 300D 3.0L 260k mi.
'85 190E 2.3L 99k mi.

What about motor mounts?

Oh yeah, Motor mounts are 6 months old and in great shape.
Shocks, springs, etc...also in good shape - no noise, good responses.

- John

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John J. Meadows
'83 300D 3.0L 260k mi.
'85 190E 2.3L 99k mi.

I had exactly the same symptoms on my 400E at 75,000 miles. I heard that sway bar bushings tend to wear out at about that mileage and cause this symptom, so had them replaced. Worked like a charm.
Incidentally, my local MB dealer diagnosed the problem as a bad left front shock mount and estimated the repair at $1200 . . .