MB SA claims new RF trust arm is req'd as LF is being replaced???
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 607
Likes: 1
From: 2 star town
R350
MB SA claims new RF thrust arm is req'd as LF is being replaced???
I'd love your feedback on an issue i'm facing. A month ago I had too much fun with traction control off (in the rain) and ended up on a curb 
The impact damaged my (driver side front) wheel beyond repair, bent suspension and caused an oil leak. Total estimated damage $5K CAD.
Fast forward one month and my car is at a local dealer for repairs. This is the email I received from my body shop:
A couple of questions:
1) Although an updated thrust arm could be redesigned I would assume it would keep the exisiting suspension geometry? Is it possible that both would need to be replaced? If so, should my insurance company not cover this?
2) My car did not leak one drip of oil before the accident. The day I brought it home (after the accident) it began to leak. Is it common for transmission pilot bushings to leak? Is it possible that this was a coincidence and I'm on the hook for this? Is it an expensive repair if out of my own pocket?
[edit: spelling, thanks lkchris]
The impact damaged my (driver side front) wheel beyond repair, bent suspension and caused an oil leak. Total estimated damage $5K CAD.
Fast forward one month and my car is at a local dealer for repairs. This is the email I received from my body shop:
Richmond MB says you need a LF strut and knuckle as part of the claim. I have to send a supplement to your insurance company for these items. The LF thrust arm was replaced as part of the claim but the new part superseded your old ones. Now you have to replace the right side at your cost or the alignment will be bad. They also looked into the oil leak and said the transmission pilot bushing is leaking. It is not accident related. I’m not sure what the cost is right now since I wasn’t the one that talked to [name]. I’m call you later when I know more.
1) Although an updated thrust arm could be redesigned I would assume it would keep the exisiting suspension geometry? Is it possible that both would need to be replaced? If so, should my insurance company not cover this?
2) My car did not leak one drip of oil before the accident. The day I brought it home (after the accident) it began to leak. Is it common for transmission pilot bushings to leak? Is it possible that this was a coincidence and I'm on the hook for this? Is it an expensive repair if out of my own pocket?
[edit: spelling, thanks lkchris]
Last edited by 155; Dec 2, 2008 at 07:18 PM.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 15,901
Likes: 4,630
From: North Scottsdale, AZ
'71 Pinto
If MB modifies a suspension part and stipulates replacing both sides for proper repair the insurance must cover the cost of total repair in accordance to the manufacturer’s specification.
Have the dealer check VMI to see if your vehicle is included in Service Campaign 2006020008 JAN07 – Inspect pilot bushing at electrohydraulic unit and replace if necessary. If so, it is a no cost repair even out of warranty as are any additional outstanding recalls and service campaigns.
Have the dealer check VMI to see if your vehicle is included in Service Campaign 2006020008 JAN07 – Inspect pilot bushing at electrohydraulic unit and replace if necessary. If so, it is a no cost repair even out of warranty as are any additional outstanding recalls and service campaigns.
Senior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 391
Likes: 3
From: SoCal
2005 E500, 2011 ML350
You probably only need a new bushing. The new thrust arm (torque strut) was replaced with the new updated bushing. The arm should be the same. Should be $40 in parts and about an hour labor.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 607
Likes: 1
From: 2 star town
R350
Just to clarify. For the RF, I can re-use the existing thrust arm with the updated bushing? I assume than that the bushing can be sold seperately as opposed to the "kit" part?
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 15,901
Likes: 4,630
From: North Scottsdale, AZ
'71 Pinto
Part # in discussion is 2113331114 exchangeable in pairs only (see #105 in diagram) $37.50 list/30 net. The replacement solid rubber bushings have an increased resilience towards deforming. DTB P-B-33.15/16b AUG08 addresses this matter and stipulates do not replace torque strut assemblies only the bushings. If you want a copy PM your email address include your VIN if you want a MB datacard listing equipment and paint codes, initial delivery date, etc.
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