Converting 4Matic E500 to RWD
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 21
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2006 Flint Grey Pano E55 AMG
Converting 4Matic E500 to RWD
2006 E500 4Matic. Has anyone converted a 4Matic to RWD. I’ve done this numerous times on Xdrive bmws which is rather simple and makes a noticeable difference.
I am well aware that the front CV axle splined flange will need to be separated from the CV axle and rebolted to the hub to keep the wheel bearing intact. And also the front drive shaft will have to be removed.
if I’m not mistaken the transfer case will need to be separated and some gears welded up? I would just like to see if anyone has done this and has any pointers?
Also, please save me the lecture on how I should buy a RWD, how I shouldn’t do this, etc.
thank you
I am well aware that the front CV axle splined flange will need to be separated from the CV axle and rebolted to the hub to keep the wheel bearing intact. And also the front drive shaft will have to be removed.
if I’m not mistaken the transfer case will need to be separated and some gears welded up? I would just like to see if anyone has done this and has any pointers?
Also, please save me the lecture on how I should buy a RWD, how I shouldn’t do this, etc.
thank you
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 21
Likes: 1
2006 Flint Grey Pano E55 AMG
Thanks for the link. Who was the member? I tried searching the keyword “manual swap” but didn’t come up with much.
I’m not looking for a DIY, just a little insight on the 4Matic system, in particular the transfer case. I believe it acts as an open differential, so with the front driveshaft removed it will just free spin the front output shaft, (no power sent to rear wheels).
thanks
I’m not looking for a DIY, just a little insight on the 4Matic system, in particular the transfer case. I believe it acts as an open differential, so with the front driveshaft removed it will just free spin the front output shaft, (no power sent to rear wheels).
thanks
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: V E G A S
1922 Ford Model T / no OBD
Almost whole drivetrain is different between 4M and RWD.
Different suspension, different engine oil pans, driveshafts, transfer case and then you have to deal with all the sensors and computer programs.
Benzworld has member handle MAVA, who rebuilds 5g transmissions for living. He drove W210 wagon 4M and when his engine needed replacement, he made a topic about it considering engine from RWD. You might seek the topic, but from what I remember he gave up on the idea and seek direct replacement engine at the end.
Paying a shop for such job would exceed the car value multifold.
Also bear in mind that MB transfer case split the power like 40/60, so converting it is basically impossible.
Different suspension, different engine oil pans, driveshafts, transfer case and then you have to deal with all the sensors and computer programs.
Benzworld has member handle MAVA, who rebuilds 5g transmissions for living. He drove W210 wagon 4M and when his engine needed replacement, he made a topic about it considering engine from RWD. You might seek the topic, but from what I remember he gave up on the idea and seek direct replacement engine at the end.
Paying a shop for such job would exceed the car value multifold.
Also bear in mind that MB transfer case split the power like 40/60, so converting it is basically impossible.
Last edited by kajtek1; Apr 15, 2020 at 02:35 PM.
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Joined: Jun 2021
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E 320 2005
I did this conversion but also wanted AMG brakes so had to do front subframe, also wels subframe rear body mounts from rwd, a lot of work. https://youtu.be/gXp-WWphiMw
