cbwhitley

Hello. I have an 06 E350 4matic with 126,000 miles. When I drive between 45 and 60 mph down the highway I hear a pretty loud intermittent rattling sound coming from the front of the vehicle. It sometimes almost feels like there is some grinding going on. Within the past 6 months I have had both front drive shafts replaced. I am not sure if I have a back drive shaft, a bad transfer case or a bad motor/trans/transfer case mount. Any thoughts?

P.S... This vehicle is also one of those that has the balance shaft issues..so...is this sound the beginnings of the end for the motor?? I have not addressed this because the only symptom of this balance shaft issue is the "Check Engine light"..Otherwise the motor runs great.

Onyxthecat

Check all components of the front suspension for movement with a pry bar.

Post a video of the noise if you can.

e350forme

this is most likely several different components.

I would rule out motor mounts for now, that is usually more when you are stopping/starting

Like onyx said, something up front is worn out. Could be either control arm bushing, tie rods, end links, strut mounts, blah blah blah

if too lazy to check yourself, pay someone an hour of labor at a nearby shop to inspect for you. doesnt have to be a benz specific shop either. even your local Amigo Discount Auto Repair will be happy to do a front end inspection for you, in my opinion less likely to rip you off too

cbwhitley

Thanks. First sorry for the spelling with the title...

I think it might be the transfer case... I jacked it up and spun a wheel and there was a lot of movement of the wheel before it caught. When I come to a stop there is a definite clunk