HELP for 300TE axle shaft bloke

[Artnor]

HELP
Everyone including Main Dealers assures me that axle shafts never go on 300TE. France 2001 Hols - the driver's side went - costing extra week in France - 4 kids - not cheap! French Main Dealer said -first he's EVER known.
Last week, passenger side - gratefully in my drive - so now resting in garage.
On both occasions - just sheared off but 2 inches from wheel side. Amazing. Its 1991, 24v and Sportline - I wonder if being lower - it suffers more pressure than other models. I really don't drive it ruthlessly - though it IS at 188K. 1998-2003 serviced by Main Dealer. Too expensive now.

It's up on stands right now, but I'm stumped. Wheel-side of damaged axle shaft is out - but diff-side held in place by a plate bearing 8 bolts (13mm) around 360 degrees - 5 easy ones undone but other 3 absolutely no access so no chance. (I have been warned against first undoing the 6 inset screws on the shaft itself which seem to be 9mm spline/star - so am leaving these and concentrating on the plate). I had been told it's a quick job - but currently need advice from slick member. Any takers?

The French got lucky - I have the exhaust on my side too.

Meanwhile the wife and 4 kids laugh at me. So HELP!

 

[guydewdney]

if this is of any help at all...

drop the diff a bit?

 

[Andy]

Hi

Sounds to me somebody being giving you duff info. As you look at the diagram from Gudwenny. You will have to remove the splined bolts only. The shaft will come off & replace with new. By the sounds of it you are removing the wrong bolts. The shaft 23 on the second diagram stays in situ.


Regards

Andy@ www.mercedesserving.com.


You might have a job removing the splines since there is nothing to lock the shaft with.

pps. I have known a couple of half shaft break in the way you have discribed. But very rare. You must be really unlucky :roll:

 

[guydewdney]

hmph - after all the money i spent with you andy - and you cant spell my name

btw - runs much better now - thanks. your service was the best its had - can i have a borrow car next time?

Guy