4Matic Front Drive Shaft Problem
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 51
Likes: 10
From: Laguna Beach, CA
2022 S500 4Matic
4Matic Front Drive Shaft Problem
I have 2007 S550 4Matic(70,000 miles) that has always had a "whiney" drive train on either slight acceleration or slight deceleration or in-between. This is the first 4Matic I've owned so I chalked it up to "the many more moving parts" in the drive train.
Well, a few weeks ago I heard a loud "flapping" noise, speed related to the drive train. The noise quickly faded and became a "buzz-saw, sawing thru a sheet of tin" noise(at >60mph) only in the transition between acceleration and deceleration or vice-a-versa.
My indy mechanic has discovered that the short drive shaft from the transfer case on the transmission to the front differential has a collapse U joint at the differential which had "grinded" into the bolts attaching it to the differential and the shaft is also rubbing against the heat shields around it apparently making the "buzz-saw" noise.
Can anyone point me to an illustrated part list in this area, expected cost for replacement shaft and U-joint(they look like they come as a single part)?
Can something like this be procured as a used or rebuilt part at significantly lower cost.??
Thanks for your help,
RGS
Well, a few weeks ago I heard a loud "flapping" noise, speed related to the drive train. The noise quickly faded and became a "buzz-saw, sawing thru a sheet of tin" noise(at >60mph) only in the transition between acceleration and deceleration or vice-a-versa.
My indy mechanic has discovered that the short drive shaft from the transfer case on the transmission to the front differential has a collapse U joint at the differential which had "grinded" into the bolts attaching it to the differential and the shaft is also rubbing against the heat shields around it apparently making the "buzz-saw" noise.
Can anyone point me to an illustrated part list in this area, expected cost for replacement shaft and U-joint(they look like they come as a single part)?
Can something like this be procured as a used or rebuilt part at significantly lower cost.??
Thanks for your help,
RGS
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 15,901
Likes: 4,632
From: North Scottsdale, AZ
'71 Pinto
MB EPC shows only complete front shaft is available, current part is 2044106701 (new $660, 460.98 http://huskerparts.com/partlocator/i...?siteid=215771) - 1701, 1801 or 6701 used should be fine.
Last edited by konigstiger; Mar 12, 2015 at 12:22 PM.
Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 220
Likes: 2
From: New England
2006 S430 4Matic
I got my drive shaft from Driveshaft specialists, inc out of Texas. http://www.driveshaftspecialist.com/ Cost for my 06 was $395 including shipping. A good DIY job. 8 bolts and remove a few shields (get new bolts from the dealer). You will have to have all 4 tires off the ground so you can turn the shaft. This one has ports for grease fittings so it does not eat itself in 30K miles. You will also need some 4" long torx (male) so you can get your ratchet in there. Lets hear it for permanent lubrication!
Last edited by lganski; Mar 12, 2015 at 12:54 PM.
