Driveshaft problem on a 82 126 SD? - Page 2 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Brian Carlton · #16 02-24-2007, 10:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by waybomb

Well, I jacked it up. Yes, the rear driveshaft turns, and the front does not! I grab a rear tire and rotate it around and turns fairly freely. I wonder if a weldment failed in there?

The car still has the exhaust pipe shield, so I can't see what the problem is. It's too damn cold out. I'm going to farm this one out to a shop somewhere around here. Any honest shops around Saint Joseph, Michigan?

It definitely sounds like you'll be replacing the driveshaft. Some planning is required on how to do that in a cost effective way. The cost for a new one is substantial.

waybomb · #17 02-24-2007, 10:23 AM

Oh ya. It'll be a used one for sure!
It turns soo easy, I have to suspect it is a failed weldment and not a spline issue. There's no knocking or anything, almost like it is spinning in a bushing or bearing.

I'll take pix of the failed part for y'all when I get this done.

kerry · #18 02-24-2007, 10:34 AM

It took me about 15 minutes to pull a driveshaft from the local Pull and Save. If it's too cold for you to do it, find one at the Pull and Save and offer someone else at the yard $25 to pull it for you.

waybomb · #19 02-24-2007, 11:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kerry edwards

It took me about 15 minutes to pull a driveshaft from the local Pull and Save. If it's too cold for you to do it, find one at the Pull and Save and offer someone else at the yard $25 to pull it for you.

I'm checking around now, but everything seems to be closed around here on a saturday.

kerry · #20 02-27-2007, 07:51 PM

Any word on what failed?

waybomb · #21 02-27-2007, 07:55 PM

Not yet-haven't towed it over to the garage yet, he's busy. Should know by the weekend what happened.

waybomb · #22 03-09-2007, 11:51 PM

OK, I wrecked my ML, bought an 01 E430, and now back to the SD. The front driveshaft yoke seperated from the driveshaft tube. Once I get it pulled out, I'll take pics.

I need a driveshaft for an 82 300SD.

Anybody close to, or somewhere between saint Joseph, MI and Manitowoc, WI?

Can driveshaft shop fix it, retube it, etc? Is there anythinmg special to a Benz driveshaft? I do know an oldtimer in Manitowoc that builds driveshafts, but I am sure he hasn't done one up for a Benz.

Brian Carlton · #23 03-09-2007, 11:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by waybomb

Can driveshaft shop fix it, retube it, etc? Is there anythinmg special to a Benz driveshaft? I do know an oldtimer in Manitowoc that builds driveshafts, but I am sure he hasn't done one up for a Benz.

There's very few shops that can successfully balance a two piece driveshaft. It takes a special cradle that can properly support the center bearing and spindles that can properly support the ends.

waybomb · #24 03-10-2007, 12:00 AM

He has that machine. I've seen him doing what you describe, but of course, I had no idea what he was doing when I saw it. So that means he can do this?

I'll stop by his shop Monday and ask.

Brian Carlton · #25 03-10-2007, 12:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by waybomb

He has that machine. I've seen him doing what you describe, but of course, I had no idea what he was doing when I saw it. So that means he can do this?

I'll stop by his shop Monday and ask.

If he can balance it........he can repair it. Balancing with the proper equipment and tooling is the trick.

waybomb · #26 03-10-2007, 09:43 AM

Guys - it would be easiest for me to just buy a used one, and I suspect cheaper. Any junkyards between St Joe MI and Manitowc WI handling older Benzes?

My brother is in the recycler business, but only deals with 0-5 year old car parts. He laughed at me when I asked about a 25 year old driveshaft. Creep.

Anyway, I'll have it fixed like new if I have to, but y'all could save me some money if you know of somebody close by.

kerry · #27 03-10-2007, 10:24 AM

We should have a 'Good Junkyards' thread.
Are you saying the weld between the yoke and the tube broke?

waybomb · #28 03-10-2007, 10:45 AM

Yup, twisted it right off.

Maybe I shouldfn't have put my spare boat engine in the 126, eh?

Seriously, though, it is probably the result of weld corrosion. It's still up in the car. When I get it out, I'll let y'all know what I think, and post pics.