Thinking of getting a 1987 300 se. A question regarding creaking

[Lee Rees]

After seeing my friends '87 se I'm thinking of adding one to my collection and have managed to source one for a very good price.

I've already been on a test drive, the cars done 130k however there is a creaking noise on the front left hand side when going over mild bumps.

Does anybody know what this could be? The owner told me its to do with rust on the shock / balljoint (can't remember which)

Is it true this car has chains instead of a cam belt, do theese need to be replaced? Are there any 300se owners here with more than 150k?

The car has a full service history and the chain hasnt been replaced.

 

[Blobcat]

Hi & Welcome

The noise could be a broken spring (or springs) does it sit level?
MB use duplex cam chains and as per advice on this forum unless it is making noise then it is fine.

 

[television]

Just adding that sometimes care needs to be taken for cars up to 1983 as a simplex chain was used. the 116 is one example though duplex conversion kits are available

 

[Lee Rees]

Hi,

The car sits level, I've spoken to 2 mechanics who say that its just because the car hasn't been used, however the problem is getting worse.

Any ideas?

 

[BlackC55]

The first things you need to look at are the Anti-roll bar bushes. Then front lower ball joint then maybe the shocker.

Most of the time its the BJ.