Replace Propeller Shaft Center Bearing

[Dec]

Has anyone ever replaced the center bearing (number 89 in Pic.) I am wondering if it is a simple or difficult task and if it is possible to replace the part without disconnecting the propshaft at either end i.e. gearbox and differential my car is C180 Automatic, petrol December 1994. Any advice appreciated

http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb2.asp?TP=1&F=202018&M=111920&GA=722421&VIN=2020182f218560&CT=F&cat=44V&SID=41&SGR=015&SGN=01


Dec

 

[Dieselman]

I really doubt you're going to do this without disconnecting the shaft at either end as the ends don't have UJs they are just the couplings. Just disconnect at the rear and the centre bearing housing and drop it down.

 

[Dec]

Thanks Dieselman, I see what you mean now, I thought I might be able to "fold" it in the middle but there is no universal joints at the front, will try what you say.

Thanks
Dec

 

[Druk]

You have to slacken #11 which is the compression nut on the sliding spline. Normally requires a special Merc spanner but if you drop the shaft slightly a large adjuster can be got in. If it is already slack it shouldn't be. Mark the two halves of the shaft in relation to each other and re-assemble to the same marks to maintain factory balance. Note that even with all the bolts out the rear section has to slide forward about an inch before it will come down cos of the spigot bush #29.

 

[Dec]

Thanks Druk, sounds like you did this before, good to know it should not be too complicated, I will bear your advice in mind.

Dec

 

[Dec]

Update;

I just replaced the center bearing and rubber support last week and was surprised at the condition of the rubber. The car is 12 years old with 85,000 miles, so be aware if you hear a “thump” when you increase throttle suddenly while overtaking, it just might be this.

Dec

 

[add]

Update;

I just replaced the center bearing and rubber support last week and was surprised at the condition of the rubber. The car is 12 years old with 85,000 miles, so be aware if you hear a “thump” when you increase throttle suddenly while overtaking, it just might be this.

Dec

Hi

Had a problem with bushes 14 and 29 on a 280E W123 many years ago.
The tube on the end has moulded rubber with a nylon insert in the middle of it which had split, causing it to rotate off centre. Basically, because it had the split in it, the car vibrated at high speed.

Add

 

[E55 in waiting]

Thread resurrection time...

Does the bearing slide off without too much trouble? I need to do this myself and plan on taking the prop shaft off first to solve the issue.

 

[Dec]

In my case, a little bit of encouragement with a hammer and chisel, so not as easily as you would like.

Dec

 

[clever dicky]

Some UJs have a circlip either inside or outside.
others are pressed in.

 

[E55 in waiting]

and going back on? The same encouragement?

 

[Dec]

It should GENTLY tap on easy enough, no force, it is a new bearing.
See… Replacing a propshaft centre bearing - Mercedes-Benz Owners' Forums

Dec