W129 Knocking noise...

[bruiserdennison]

I have recently purchased a 1994 SL 500 and it has developed a knocking noise from what sounds like the steering or suspension. On a flat, smooth even surface, there is no noise but when you go over bumps or cobbles there is an intermittent knocking/scraping that sounds quite bad. Could it be worn bushes or a snapped spring perhaps - any ideas would be much appreciated. The car is still under a dealer's warranty but i am keen to understand the likely problem.

 

[stats007]

It could be a number of things and more than likely related to your other thread of poor ride. The best thing would be to get it checked out by an independent.

Can you recreate it when the car is stationary? A quick wheels off check would give you a bit more insight.

 

[KLP 92]

Noises over speed bumps are normally anti roll bar bushes, but they should be excessively loud. The R129s also suffe from the idler arm bushes deterioting, in some cases can come away completely. Best bet is to have it put on a ramp and checked properly.

I would give the inside arch a quick visual check, make sure the inner arch plastic trim isn't loose and hitting the tyre.