I am thinking that the problem is most likely due to a collapsed engine mount.
The one most apt to collapse is the one on the driver's side, in the area under the small plastic (primary) fuel filter. They collapse because fuel gets on them and disintegrates the rubber.

This will also cause the fan to whack part of the fan shroud, most likely.

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Semibodacious Transmogrifications a Specialty

1990 300D 2.5 Turbo sedan 171K (Rudolf)
1985 300D Turbo TD Wagon 219K (Remuda)

"Time flies like and arrow, yet fruit flies like a banana"
---Marx (Groucho)