After doing much researching rear suspension problems on 126's and knowing I needed new shocks I have solved about 95% of the rattle coming from the rear of my '91 300SE with their replacement. All of the sub frame and control arm bushings appear to be in good shape. Now to do some searching for the "links" on the rear, that may be the cause of the rest. BTW a new tranny mount works wonders for a slight vibration when cold.

Many thanks again to everyone who shares troubles as well as the fixes on our fine cars. If I happen to run across another Benz in as good shape I will give my daughter the SE to drive knowing it's a good car and most importantly a very safe car.

I do have a question that I doubt anyone has thought about. In the trunk/boot, under the liner/carpet there are "flapper doors" down in the well on either side. I assume these have something to do with the ventilation system. Could these doors be the cause of the remaining rattle I'm hearing, with the new shocks installed, the rattle only happens when going over a bump that causes the car to wiggle from side to side slightly.

Now to think up a name for my Benz, everyone else seems to have a name for theirs.....

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1991 300SE (my ride, 279,000 miles, looks almost new
1954 Cadillac (21 yo son's car, he bought when age 15)
1972 SeaBird 19 ft runabout (old but solid, slant six, Volvo sterndrive perfect condition, undergoing complete overhaul and refit)
1998 Toyota Rav4 (my sons daily driver when he is in the Continental US, PROUDLY serving in US Navy)