1981 300td......after replacing the front seal on the transmission, the back end started making horrible banging sounds. The cv shaft is done. If anyone can tell me how long it should take to replace it or how much the part will be, that will be very helpful. thanks!

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1981 300TD Wagon

For one Axle if everthing goes OK 2-3 hours for doing it the first time so you can do it at a slow pace.

Make sure you can get the Differential Plug loose before you begin the Job. If you cannot get it loose you will not be able to fill the Differential and it is one of those things that screws up the Time Schedual.

Don't lose the original Spacer if it has one between the Axle and the Differential.

The touchy question is what Axle to use. That Asian made Axles are inexpensive but can have fitment issues on either end of the Shaft.

With Asian Axles you are better off with the Homokinetic type than the Annular ones that have bolts going through the end that goes into the Differential because the have been know to come loose in as little as a month.

After that there is only Rebuilt Axles from that famous place in Col. or you go to the local Autoparts and buy CARDONE Rebuilt Axles (I have not put a lot of milage on my car but somewhere about 4 years I installed the Cardone Axles and this Year had to change the Boots due to cracking).
I don't know of other rebuilders.

New Axles from the Dealer or I believe GKN (Lebro, may not be spelled right) is selling new ones for $425+.

One of our Members re-boots used Axles and sells them. Someone will have to chime in on if they are warranted.

Of course you could also get a used Axle from the Junk Yard with intact Boots and either use it as is or re-boot the Axle Yourself and hope it is OK.

for more detailed info on the repair and buying Axles:
DIY Repair Links
DIY Links by Parts Category - PeachParts Mercedes ShopForum

PeachPartsWiki: Do It Yourself Articles - Mercedes Vehicles

I would like to comment on the time.

Even though I have had My Axles on and off 2 times If I had to change One Axle right now I would be hard pressed to change one in 3 Hours.

The reason for that is My Tools and stuff like the Differential Oil and what is needed to install the Differential Oil are in disarray.

If you have to spend time looking for stuff hours will be eaten up quickly.

Even if you are extremely organized it is possible for the Axle to be stuck in the Hub or that darn Differential Plug to be stuck.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

I'm the member that reboots undamaged original MB axles and sells them.
I'm in favor of the junkyard searching for any 123 axle that has intact boots, and changing them. I am not in favor of any auto parts axle being used. the denver (CJ?) rebuilt axles are of high quality, and have a good reputation, but they are pricey!

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John HAUL AWAY, OR CRUSHED CARS!!! HELP ME keep the cars out of the crusher! A/C Thread
"as I ride with my a/c on... I have fond memories of sweaty oily saturdays and spewing R12 into the air. THANKS for all you do!

My drivers:
1987 190D 2.5Turbo
1987 190D 2.5Turbo
1987 190D 2.5-5SPEED!!!

1987 300TD
1987 300TD
1994GMC 2500 6.5Turbo truck... I had to put the ladder somewhere!

okay...I'm going to check the junk yards. Do I have to get one specifically from another wagon? I found one from a running 300sd thats $100

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1981 300TD Wagon

An SD axle may not work in your car. One of the experts will give you a yes or no on that idea. I had mine rebooted by CVJ. Very nice to deal with and turnaround time was one day. It is possible they could rebuild your axles and return them, that way there are no fitment issues.

It's not a difficult job, but the replacement of the differential side seals is recommended. It would also be a good time to spin the rear wheel hubs and see how the bearings sound.

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'83 300D, 126K miles.

An axle from a SD or W126 from 81 - 85 will not work. the trailing arms and the Differentials are the same, but the axles are a few inches longer. wider wheel track.

Here is a good DIY Article from Dmorrison.
PeachPartsWiki: Replacing the Rear Axles


I have found some almost new axles under a lot of cars. also if the boots are good, pull them. Junk yard price is around $35 . not difficult to remove, just time consuming.

Charlie

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there were three HP ratings on the OM616...

1) Not much power
2) Even less power
3) Not nearly enough power!! 240D w/auto

Anyone that thinks a 240D is slow drives too fast.

80 240D Naturally Exasperated, 4-Spd 388k DD 150mph spedo 3:58 Diff

We are advised to NOT judge ALL Muslims by the actions of a few lunatics, but we are encouraged to judge ALL gun owners by the actions of a few lunatics. Funny how that works