108 driveshaft/ u-joint - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

JMela · #1 08-20-2011, 07:17 PM

Hi guys, was wondering about the u-joint on my 108 with 95k miles or so. Getting a little vibration at highway speeds and figure the support bushing is shot. "While things are apart" (project will be one of those) I figured I'd replace the u-joint, which has to be on it's way out after 40+ years.

So my understanding is that these u-joints are staked. My local says with these u-joints the d-shaft is to be replaced = he doesn't want to mess with replacing it. Is replacement my only option?

I found a good bit of info on this page:

http://www.driveshafts.com/pages/mercedes_ujoint.html

Cheers - hope everyone is putting on plenty of miles this summer.

280SE Guy · #2 08-21-2011, 08:27 AM

Joe,

You shouldn't have to replace the u-joints if they has been serviced (greased) over the last 40 years.

All you will need is a new flex disc and the center bearing and cushion at number 2 above. You can also replace the spline seal number 6 easily. A centering bushing number 3 can also be replaced but might not be necessary.

Just remember to mark your driveshaft orientation if you pull it apart to replace the center bearing and cushion. Make sure you are able to get the splines put back together as they came apart as the whole assembly is balanced as a unit.

Good luck.

Regards,

280SE Guy

Tony H · #3 08-22-2011, 01:45 AM

Many Mercedes driveshafts do not have grease fittings on them and cannot be service as was the case with mine. I sent my driveshaft to Driveline Service of Portland http://driveshafts.com/ and they installed servicable ujoints, replaced the center bearings and cushions and spin balanced it. My Ujoints were so stiff they would barely move. My coupe driveshaft has 3 u joints and 2 center bearings so it was a bit pricy but I think the average is about $350.

PS-i just noticed your link goes to the outfit that did my driveshaft. They UPS's me a shipping tube to send my driveshaft to them.