Tom --

I've just been through this -- twice!! -- on a w126, which is not that different, just longer.

It takes very little time to remove the WHOLE rear end assembly, maybe 45 minutes to an hour, depending on tools. It takes longer to install another, as much as 2.5 to 3.5 hours.

But shops use things like Alldata to estimate, and Alldata says it takes 6 hours. With a lift, and a tranny lift, it's not that difficult, but what're ya gonna do....

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Anthracite 1980 300D -- 64k original miles with a new engine, on the road again!
Silver 300D -- second owner, Sunny's old baby, Ilse, 210 miles,
Having to thin the herd….
Silver 1983 300SD -- second owner, 325k miles
Gold 1981 300D -- well-traveled, solid little car
Beige 1984 300D -- 292k miles, grease machine, parting out
Seafoam green 1981 300SD -- 250k, windshield frame damage
too many assorted w123 & w126 cars, parts cars, and extras