W202 C36 creaky rear suspension

[callahan]

I'm hoping that someone can help with an annoying problem.

My C36 has developed a very annoying creak at the rear passenger side when there is any stress on the suspension - so all the time

I took it to my local independent who spotted that the rear quarter of the car was very rusty and dry, as if it had been parked in a puddle for a few months. It hasn't since I've had it, but my brother owned it before me and lived on the coast.....

He suggested that I try to remove the rust, then waxoyl it which I did. This has helped a little (I can't make it creak by bouncing the rear corner any more) but it still creaks when driving.

I sent a message to Tony at Wheels in Motion and he suggested that it might be the bushings that have seized a bit and might need greasing.

So, firstly, does anyone have any other ideas about what could be wrong? Secondly, how do I go about greasing the bushing? A step-by-step idiots guide would be useful, perhaps essential

The alternative would be to take it down to Tony, but it's a bit of a trek for me.

Thanks

 

[BlackC55]

It will be the outer lower arm bush. I have done loads. I am suprised the indi did not spot it.

 

[callahan]

Is this something I could do easily? Or maybe my local garage (a different one)?

Thanks

 

[BlackC55]

You need a special tool to do it. Available from MB. The bush is not expensive.

 

[callahan]

Cool, thanks. I'll see if my local place can do it.

 

[kth286]

callahan

do look at the tyre tread on those rear wheels, especially the insides,

You are looking for uneven wear.

If they are wearing uneven then the problem may be the rear tie rod links.

These can seize on the inboard end where the toe adjuster bolt goes through the bush on the subframe.

I had to saw mine off - very tricky.

My car has same suspension as yours.

 

[callahan]

callahan

do look at the tyre tread on those rear wheels, especially the insides,

You are looking for uneven wear.

If they are wearing uneven then the problem may be the rear tie rod links.

These can seize on the inboard end where the toe adjuster bolt goes through the bush on the subframe.

I had to saw mine off - very tricky.

My car has same suspension as yours.

Funny you should say that.... the inside edge of the rear left tyre is dangerously bald and I'll be getting new tyres at the end of the week. I didn't even realise until the garage noticed it as the outer edge looks fine.

Sounds like it may be wise to take it to a suspension specialist to be sure it gets sorted out, is Wheels in Motion the best option or could my local generic garage (who are very good, but not Merc specialists) do it?

Thanks

 

[kth286]

callahan

you really do need an indie Merc specialist that is familiar with your generation of car.

They will have the experience of what to look for, they will know what is involved in replacing the item, and they will have the specialist Merc tool where needed, and of course they will have the computer to access parts info and cost appropriate to your VIN.

It is the best and cheapest route in the end.

There are a couple of good ones in Essex - just do search.

 

[callahan]

Thanks, I have customers near Simon Light's place and Gem Tech, so can get there fairly easily. I will give them a call. Anyone have any preferences / recommendations / warnings for either of them?