Rear wheel and axle play '98 E320 wagon. Fixable? But at what cost?
https://www.dropbox.com/s/lmcdptvjbx...0Play.mp4?dl=0

 

Totally normal. The gears in the rear end normally have enough slop, called lash, so they do not bind when they heat up from driving.

 

Thanks, Nelbur. This is a relief. Just finished changing all the arms and bushes, in process of changing out the forward subframe mounts, and possibly the rear Giubo chasing a rapid thump on acceleration. The car has a history of being used to haul construction materials so has a severely worn rear end.

 

I had a knock on acceleration and also side to side.Check the rear trailing arm outer bushing at the knuckle. Get the tool for a hundred on eBay. Took longer to get to the part than to extract the bushing using the tool. Firmed up the the rear end nicely.

 

Thanks. Rear bushes have been replaced. Now doing subframe mounts. May need a Guibo.

 

I have an occasional knock/slack in drive line feeling on acceleration and all I have left is the sub frame bushings. Depends on driving situation though. A soft reset sends it away generally though I have done everything you have done including shocks and springs center support, both flex discs and differential fluid change. I only have Subframe left possibly differential mount.

Can't decide how to do the subframe - DIY or shop. Buy the tool or manhandle.

Share your experience if you do the subs!

 

I plan on driving the center metal shaft up through the mount by lowering it via the subframe onto a standing pipe. Then removing as much rubber as possible before cutting the rest out with a hacksaw and chisel. The metal case gets midevil chiseled out careful not to hurt the cup it's seated in.