I'm getting a vibration at 60+ mph. The flex disks and universal joint are OK. I can shake the driveshaft assembly about 1/4 inch back and forth at the center support, and I guess this is due to the rubber mount surrounding the bearing.

There seems to be some play between the front and rear driveshaft halves. When I turn it back and forth or shake it, there is a metallic ringing noise that seems to come from the front half. Is this a likely problem?

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1985 380SE Blue/Blue - 230,000 miles
2012 Subaru Forester 5-speed
2005 Toyota Sienna
2004 Chrysler Sebring convertible
1999 Toyota Tacoma

It could be the center support bearing. I had a shake at about 45, their was just a slight amount of side to side play if you grabbed it and tried to move it.

The center bearing support is rubber and was worn, I also replaced the bearing itself. Now no play really, just a little movement because it is rubber mounted.

The drive shaft is in two parts, their is a spline that mates the two halfs together. I don't see how that could wear. Well at least mine at 250k looked like new and was tight as can be.

I'd recomend removal and inspection, maybe bring it to a driveshaft shop for a balance and see what they come up with.

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2016 Corvette Stingray 2LT
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200

The manual says to remove the exhaust system to remove the driveshaft. I am VERY afraid to move the cat since it is fragile but still works. But I can't get at that big 4x mm nut otherwise. No shortcuts, I suppose?

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1985 380SE Blue/Blue - 230,000 miles
2012 Subaru Forester 5-speed
2005 Toyota Sienna
2004 Chrysler Sebring convertible
1999 Toyota Tacoma

sure that the flex plates are fine? i dont see how the ds would have play in it without haveing a huge vibration. i would take another look at the flex joints, i think.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

The flex disks are solid with no cracks and no movement between the drive and driven sides. I'm wondering if I can remove the shaft and center bearing, carefully measure the length between the 2 halves, then reassemble without having to access the spline nut once its installed. The center support is right above the cat, which I don't want to disturb.

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1985 380SE Blue/Blue - 230,000 miles
2012 Subaru Forester 5-speed
2005 Toyota Sienna
2004 Chrysler Sebring convertible
1999 Toyota Tacoma

I don't know whats under your car, on the SDL you don't have to touch the exhuast. I am sure the V8's are different.

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2016 Corvette Stingray 2LT
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200