W123 Axle Spacers...Are they flat or not? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

cook · #1 12-13-2009, 04:09 PM

Regarding the axle spacer that goes on the axle inner joint, right where it goes in the the differential.....

Are the spacers flat and can go on any way, or do they have an inner and outer side to them?

If they have an inner side and an outer side, how do you tell which is which?

I did not see a reference to this in my searches, and my dealer did not know. I will be installing a new one in the upcoming weeks and want to put it on the correct way.

Thanks

Whiskeydan · #2 12-13-2009, 04:26 PM

Flat.

Did you buy some aftermarket axles? I ask because some aftermarket axles have a "rounded" machined area where the spacer needs to sit.

Brian Carlton · #3 12-13-2009, 04:27 PM

They typically have an inner and outer side, defined by the tiny pull tab on the outside of the ring. The tab protrudes in one direction to allow a grip with a tool. Clearly this direction is away from the diff.

Whiskeydan · #4 12-13-2009, 04:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian Carlton

They typically have an inner and outer side, defined by the tiny pull tab on the outside of the ring. The tab protrudes in one direction to allow a grip with a tool. Clearly this direction is away from the diff.

I think you are refering to the retaining clip.

cook · #5 12-13-2009, 05:43 PM

Right, I am referring to the spacer that looks like a washer, not the C-clip that does inside the differential.

Yes, I have the Chinese axles, so I will be rounding the inner side on one side of the spacer so it sits flat against the axle.

So it sounds like they are flat and I don't need to worry about which side goes towards the differential when I install them, right?

Thanks

barry123400 · #6 12-13-2009, 05:46 PM

Their function is just as spacers to remove excess side clearances. Means one side of the washer should be no different than the other when new at least. Actually just adjusters to compensate for manufacturing tollerences.

Whiskeydan · #7 12-13-2009, 07:50 PM

Every axle/differential combination is unique to spacer needs.

You will need to grind the spacer, of the proper thickness, to fit the rounded machined area of the china axle where it mates the differential bearing.
Good luck with that.

Also, the china axles are JUNK! Have a look at the clip groove. Chances are it's machined all wrong also.

Return them and demand your money back. Go find some good used alxes or rebuild your old ones.