walkerworthless

Has anybody else experienced this? I just want to know what to expect when I get under there. The U-joint at the front diff failed and the shaft slapped around. I know it tore up the O2 sensor, and was leaking tranny fluid once I got parked. Have code p0730 for incorrect gear ratio. Is the trans shot, or is it saveable. I'm a fairly well versed mechanic with most cars, but new to MB. I know BMW like the back of my hand though.

NCTRNL

Whoa...add this to the list of things I need to pay attention to. I'm at 153K miles. Guess I'll have to research how to make sure this doesn't happen. I'll be following this thread.

walkerworthless

I was at 157k. Felt some vibration that was typical of a CV axle. Was gonna replace CV's this week. Driveshaft exploded while at 75mph with cruise on.
I will definitely be checking my 04 E320 wagons front driveshaft now

NCTRNL

I have replaced my front axles when I did the front air springs. Learned the lesson to not use Japanese axles for sure but I don't remember checking the actual driveshaft at all.

walkerworthless

I recommend you do. Catastrophic u-joint failure will now be added to my list of brain damage

NCTRNL

I'm looking at this video right now of what the shaft looks like. Guess you just have to replace the whole thing, no way to service the OEM part?

walkerworthless

Sadly that appears to be the case. However. There is a company in Colorado that makes an upgraded front drive shaft. And it is serviceable. Cost between 250 and $350

NCTRNL

What company is it? I used a company called CVJ Reman for the axles and they were great but they don't do driveshafts from what I can tell.

walkerworthless

I think their name is literally Colorado driveshaft LOL

NCTRNL

Keeping that one handy. I need to get under my wagon and see if I can tell if mine is on its way out...

kajtek1

The automotive rebuild shops are on extinct (one engine rebuild shop in my old neighborhood got converted to ... pet hotel) but with some search you still find them and cheap shipping those days makes it easy.
I know MB sells whole shafts only.
Here is a link I saved in the past, but I never used them. http://www.driveshaftspecialist.com/.../Mercedes.html
I always advise to check 4M driveline on regural basis.
Torn boot on CV can be DIY for about $80, but if you neglect it, the only available new MB shaft is $1300. (you still can go Chinese for less)
Any vibration calls for immediate inspection. We had member who was pushing the front shaft job and the thing snapped on his driveway, with all side bags exploding. Had to be some impact.

homeofstone

Have to watch the front and rear flex disc on the driveshaft. I replaced mine at about 120,000 miles as preventive maintenance.

walkerworthless

Front driveshaft on the E500 4matic does not have flex discs. I've never had issues with the rear wheel driveshafts.
I will definitely be checking all driveshafts and joints now though. We have 4 4Matics and only one has had driveshaft work done

walkerworthless

Finally got under the car. Driveshaft did some damage. Transmission appears to be only cosmetically hurt. O2 sensor is effed, transmission cooler line destroyed, power steering line destroyed, catalytic converter got beat. Heat shield for R&P was shredded. Other than that damage is minimal.
I definitely will be checking u joints on all other vehicles.
only had 150k on the e500 when this happened.
i highly recommend that anyone with a 4matic check their front driveshaft, and even replace it as preventative maintenance

walkerworthless

Definitely wont be letting this happen again

Onyxthecat

What are you doing for replacement?

walkerworthless

company in Colorado. Sells a serviceable, more beefy driveshaft. Figure I'll upgrade to one that I wont have to worry about

Onyxthecat

I just posted myself about my driveshaft. Can you let me know what part it is and cost? Thanks!

walkerworthless

I believe the shaft is just under $300 and has replaceable U-joints

Onyxthecat

Amazing, I found the part and will order asap. I see they also replace the rear shaft as well. Not sure if its necessary. I drove my car home to NYC from Tulsa, OK doing over 80 for 24 hours and no issues other than my supposed giubo issue.

NCTRNL

So are there any tips on how to diagnose this if I get under the car? Am I just looking for play in the joint? Visible damage?

kajtek1

First sign is grease outside the bearings. then close look will show damaged seals.
Good idea is take picture with phone camera and enlarge on computer.