Do I need to be aware of any variations in parts when buying new rear axle assemblies?
meaning....sometimes I have to use my VIN number to determine between two different version of parts.
I've got a 1985 300D Turbo. Needing to replace rear axle assembly on both sides.
Please advise.
Thank in advance.

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Wordmanjay
Tribetown, Ohio

To the best of my Knowledge both axles are the Same size/length. And, that is different from some of the other models.
After that there are to different types of Axles that have a different physical appearances.

The Homokinetic Axles have what I call 2 Cans on each end of the Axle; meaning each of the Cans look similar.
The Annular Axles on one end has a circular Section that 5 or 6 Bolts go through.

I know that they can be swapped as matched pairs between types but do not know if it is OK to have one Annular and one Homokinetic Axle.

There is 2 sizes of the single Bolt, Washer and Spacer that goes through the Hub to the Axle but new and rebuilt Axles often come with new ones to fit the Axle. And if they don't it is not a big deal to get the ones to match it.

The biggest issue is what Axles to use. The Asian made Axles have quality Control issues and some have had problems with fitting them.
If you purchase those is suggest you get the Homokinetic Type with the Cans on each end as the Bolts on the Asian Annular ones have been know to come loose while driving.

I put Cardone Rebuilt Mercedes Axles on My Car and while they were otherwise good the Boots started cracking after about 4 years and I ended up rebooting them Myself.

The are selling New OEM axles but they are at least $300+ each.

You can send your old ones out to be rebuilt (see the DIY thread as to where).

If the Axles you have now are not making any noise but the Boots are shot they could be re-booted with a high chance of no issues afterwards.

My thought on buying the Asian made Axles is to buy the locally so that if you have an issue with them you don't have to argue about who is going to pay the shipping back and forth for the warranty.


DIY Repair Links
DIY Links by Parts Category - PeachParts Mercedes ShopForum

PeachPartsWiki: Do It Yourself Articles - Mercedes Vehicles

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

CVJ in Denver is still doing Mercedes axles, they might be a good choice. Very nice to deal with, too.

What is wrong with your axles, are they worn out or just leaking?

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'83 300D, 126K miles.

Here is a DIY thread that Dave Morrison did. the axles he is replacing are the Homokenetic. you will notice the can on the end next to the Differential. actually there is a can on both ends.

The axles he replaced are the Annular. they have a set of 6 bolts on the Diff end. If and when the axle ever needs replacing, remove the bolt in the end of the axle, the 6 bolts and slide the axle out. the Stub end stays in the Differential. The diff will need to be drained, the rear cover taken off to initially install these axles.

With the Homokenetic axle. the diff needs to be drained, the "C" clip removed, the bolt in the Hub removed. then the axle can be removed.


I think the problem with the 6 bolts coming loose on the Chicom axles, is they didn`t have Lock-tite and or torqued down, or checked when installed.

The two types of axles can be used together. two of one type or two of the other type, or one of each type together.


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

My boots are both torn. The passenger side one clicked for a while on occasion, now it's constant- only on acceleration- once coasting, the clicking stops.
At the price point of this repair, seems reasonable to replace both rear axle assemblies for around $300 in parts?

ps- what thread or link has that repair in it?

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Wordmanjay
Tribetown, Ohio

There are a number of good writeups on axle replacement or repair.

ONE big caution, actually two, make sure your MB is very secure once you have it up.
Check to make sure your FILL plug on the differential comes out so you can refill it as you complete the repair. Kroil is a great penetrating oil to help. Its a 14mm allen.

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1985 300D 198K sold
1982 300D 202K
1989 300E 125K
1992 940T

"If you dont have time to do it safely, you dont have time to do it"

"The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."