When we bought our MB it had 176000 miles. A short time later I was getting this thumping that sounded like the R/R. so had the shop replace it along with the other side with the thinking at that time that it just as old. So had them replaced with new axles, and they came with the up grade so I don`t have to take the diff. apart. just unbolt from a flange on the outside of the diff.
so about 3 yrs ago the R/R was thumping again and had it replaced with another new one. the L/R is still hanging in there.
The first time they were replaced the list price was $545.00 ea. they charged me $350.00 for a total of $700.00
That was at 182965 miles.
Then at 292814 miles had the 2nd R/R replaced $500.00 plus labor
.
That ain`t going to happen again. this was before I knew about MB Shop and all the info I have picked up.
there is a E-Bay seller "macautopartsdiscounts" that has rear axles for the W123 for $64.95 plus $18.00 shipping in the buy now . BUT they are made in CHINA.
Charlie ☺