PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Useful 3.2L M104 Specs and using Honda Connecting Rods

JayRash · #22 09-14-2010, 02:22 AM

I have to agree with Ed on this, My W124 with the stiffer springs, shocks and anti roll bars, along with the torque of the turbo setup, 17in wheels and my unforgiving driving developed cracks in:

1- both front lower control arms mounting points.
2- the rear sub-fame had at least 3 cracks in it.
3- the inner right mounting point for the rear sub-frame cracked and reached to the sheet metal under the rear seat.
4- Finally when my sis started to drive the car she managed to almost completely rip out the right strut mount.

I have completely rebuild my W124 front and rear and have reinforced the car in several places though its not subjected to as much stress as before. Just recently have succeeded in finding a strut tower brace which I will fit. BTW the car still never rattles, squeaks or feel saggy.
So yes those cars will show signs of fatigue if stressed, But then again my w124 was never driven with ease and has now 400k KM on it. so i would say subject it to stress and it will show signs of fatigue
But if i am to do it all over again, i would still drive it the same way i did. and fix what breaks, when it brakes.
But my advise is if your tough on your W124, do raise the car and look for cracks on mounting points, and fix any if found.

BTW, My W202 AMG has a tiny crack in the left front mounting of the lower control arm,
and the car only has 140K Km on it.