Yeah, that's a great write-up. I'm about to embark on that project soon too.

As to what they're called, I have seen them called "guide rod" mounts "track rod" mounts "caster rod" mounts, you name it. All are correct, though "guide rod" seems to be what is used in MB documentation.

As far as front end wobble after hitting potholes, that can also be caused by a bad idler arm bushing. In my case, I was experiencing wobbles which very quickly (a couple weeks) turned into near catastrophic oscillations after hitting potholes on the passenger side. Very scary indeed. I had just had the front end inspected and somehow this was missed. I got a thumbs up from my indie, then later that week hit a pothole at about 60mph that started an oscillation so bad I nearly lost control of the vehicle. Even more terrifying, it got worse as I tried to bleed off speed. Only after I relived this harrowing story for my mechanic was he able (or possibly willing) to find the actual problem, in my case the idler arm bushing. He fixed it for $35 and I haven't had the problem since.

My "guide rod" problem is showing up as clunking when I hit potholes at very low speed (dirt parking lots) and a slight clunk that can be heard when I sharply apply brakes. Also, I am having drifting issues which I'm sure aren't being helped by the slop down there.

In any case, I just wanted to tell you that story so that you'll inspect your idler arm bushing because I would hate for anyone to relive what I went through a year ago with mine.

-EDIT-

I also had him replace the steering damper at the same time as the idler arm bushing, and that cost more than the $35 for the bushing.

__________________
-tp


1990 300SE "Corinne"- 145k daily driver - street modified differential - PARTING OUT OR SELLING SOON - PORTLAND OR. AREA - PM ME FOR DETAILS
1988 560SEL "Gunther"- 190K passes anything except a gas station
1997 S420 - 265k just bought it with a rebuilt trans. Lovely condition