300SDL flex section exhaust repair

[AJD]

Hi All,

Just figure I would put this out there as a solution to the issue of a broken flex section in the exhaust pipe up near the engine on the ole 1987 300SDL.

After much searching and only finding one place that will make them up new (Mercedes 1986-87 300SDL Exhaust System) at ~$300... (no thank you)...

After purchasing three, I finally found the correct fitting flex section from Advance Auto Parts. The one I used is their part number 520010, Rol Exhaust Braid Flex 2" ID x 10". It allowed me to cut out the old section just beyond both OEM flanges, slip the section into the stock exhaust pipe and weld up both ends. The only precaution was to measure the old section and mark out lines on the still to be reused exhaust pipe to get the correct length back with the new section in place.

Attached pictures show the before and after repair.

Cheers!
Andy

[gskurka]

Well Done! I have a similar problem on my '91 350SD. Thanks for the write-up.

[Diesel911]

Yes, I put this in My notes. Looks better than the original.

[Diesel911]

Yes, I put this in My notes. Looks better than the original.

[mach4]

Great solution. My downpipe was broken in half at the flex joint. I did exactly the same thing on my project. This shows the before and after (through the magic of Photoshop) of cleaning up the pipe and painting with exhaust paint.

[gskurka]

My flex bellows had a fatigue failure because I didn't install the "U" clamp to the bracket downstream of the flex joint. Even though the pipe is supported, the vibration eventually cracked the bellows. A temporary "bandage" made with fiberglass fabric and safety wire is in place while the new flex joint rides in the trunk.