Clunk - left rear 190e 2.6 uni-jnt or xmsn

[Paul Bennett]

1994 190E 2.6 120k miles
Back up a short distance slowly then shift into drive and slowly accellerate...clunk. Sounds like the left rear takes a half turn before engages. Could be in middle of car but sounds like drivers side. Occasionally get the noise when going into reverse. Drives/shifts/sounds fine when warm but still has the clunk. Slow shifts when cold. Clunk is new and scarry.

Is the problem likely to be:

1) Universal which needs replacing
2) Bad differential?
3) Drive line problem?
4) Transmission?

I'm unfamiliar with the structure of a independant rear axel but seem to remember a front wheel car doing this once when the universal joint needed replacement.

[Duke2.6]

It could be almost anything in the drivetrain beginning with the front flex coupling, which is the number one suspect. These are literally a "maintenance item" and will likely be cracked and loose by 60K miles.

You need to get the car up in the air and do a thorough inspection. Wiggle every joint/coupling/component and look for looseness.

Duke

[stevebfl]

Also check the differential mounts.

[Meza]

I do have the same problem with your same description on my 93 190e 2.6L. Please keep us updated. I haven't looked closely at mine, but I am guessing it's one of the CV joints. Outer one (closer to the wheel).
Thanks,
Meza