Hello. My son just bought an '86 300E. What I notice is a vibration starting at about 45 MPH under throttle and getting worse as the speed increases. The moment that the throttle is released the vibration disappears, regardless of speed.

Any ideas where to start looking? Is there a center (carrier) bearing? Flex plate possible? Axle? U joint? Once again, it goes away immediately upon taking my foot off the accelerator. I can feel the vibration throughout the car.

What sort of shop would be best equipped to diagnose? The dealer?


Thanks for all helpful comments!

rr





300E
80k miles
2 owners, not much maintenance
CARFAX shows minor rear end accident

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r2

'85 300SD 193k miles (parts)
'81 300SD 400k miles-sold
'84 300SD 205k miles-sold
'84 300TDT 270k miles-sold
'80 300CD 200k miles-sold

Almost certainly front flex disk. I have the same problem, just haven't got around to fixing it yet.

Do you have any "clunks" as it downshifts at slower speeds?

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2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k

I agree with ps2cho, if the vibration gets worse as speed increases then it is most likely the front flex disc and not tire/wheel related. Flex discs have a lifespan of 50-70k miles.

The front flex disc connects the engine to the drive shaft.

If you can get under the car and wiggle the driveshaft you can tell if it is bad.

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'86 300E 5 speed
'71 Triumph TR6
'46 Cushman Scooter
'41 Ford 9N tractor

Great! That makes sense! As soon as I can get to the car I'll check that out.

I'm guessing not to hard to replace. Am I wrong?



Thanks!


rr

__________________
r2

'85 300SD 193k miles (parts)
'81 300SD 400k miles-sold
'84 300SD 205k miles-sold
'84 300TDT 270k miles-sold
'80 300CD 200k miles-sold