When I remove the Drive Line, I leave the Flex Disks on the Trans end and on the Diff. end. Then slide the whole unit out towards the rear of the vehicle, down and out.
Be sure to mark the two halves with some paint (before removing) incase it separates.
I think it would be near impossible to remove it with the Disks on.
Maybe if the two halves were separated, then it could be done.
Every MB Drive Line I have removed, the U-Joints have had that notchy feel to them. They don`t get flexed much, they really just smooth out any slight vibrations in the drivetrain.
I had both the 80 240D and 85 300D U-Joints replaced by San Jose DL Cost was $300. They machine them out and replace with a grease able joint.
Use good U-Joints and Engine Mounts, not the crappy URO one`s.
The shop must have used a China made center Support. 30K miles later I had a vibration, and the rubber was about totally gone.
replaced it with a Fibi, and made in China sticker on the box.
Ask ALABASSI about his 91 560SEL when the front Disk came apart and destroyed his car.
Charlie