Axle Shafts - New Centering Feature Reduces Vibration

9217mercedes01

TO:
OUR MERCEDES-BENZ PASSENGER CAR DEALERS

DATE:
February 1992


REF. NO.:
35/70


SUBJECT:
MODELS 124, 129, 201 REAR AXLE SHAFTS WITH CENTERING FEATURE





Since April 1991 production, the rear axle shafts as well as the differential connecting flanges have a centering feature. This results in a more precise alignment between the flange and axle shaft resulting in reduced vibration. The differential connecting flange now features machined surfaces, while the stamped end cover has been revised to match (fig. 1, arrows).





Note:
Rear axle shafts with the centering feature cannot be connected to connecting flanges without the centering feature (fig., 2). To avoid replacing the connecting flanges, install the old style end cover (without the centering feature) which is also supplied with new style rear axle shafts having the centering feature. When replacing the end cover, the grease quantity must be transferred to the other end cover.





Rear axe shafts without the centering feature can be connected to connecting flanges with the centering feature. (fig. 3).