Checking condition of the front axle joints A. Supporting joint, B. Follower joint - wh3353pkw0000x(3353)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 42 other vehicles, including the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S500, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S320, and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CL600. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Model 107 from 8/85; 123; 124, 129, 140 up to 6/93; 126 from 9/85; 201 from 1/85

Revision: Figures changed

A. Supporting joint

Fig 1: Identifying Rubber Boot And Wishbone (Model 107)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Model 107

Fig 2: Identifying Rubber Boot (Models 123, 126)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Models 123, 126

Fig 3: Identifying Rubber Boot And Wishbone (Models 124, 129, 201)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Models 124, 129, 201

Fig 4: Identifying Rubber Boot And Wishbone (Model 140)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Model 140

Rubber boot (7f) check carefully for leakage and good condition.

If a rubber boot is leaky (e.g. grease exiting) the affected joint or wishbone (4) must be replaced immediately, because dirt getting in can ruin the joint within a very short time.

Replacement of the rubber boot is permissible only when it is absolutely certain that dirt has not gotten into the inside of the joint.

B. Follower joint (models 107, 123, 126, 140)

Fig 5: Identifying Rubber Boot And Wishbone (Model 107)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Model 107

Fig 6: Checking Ball Joint Play (Model 140)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Model 140

Fig 7: Identifying Rubber Boot And Upper Wishbone (Model 123, 126)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Models 123, 126

Fig 8: Checking Ball Joint Play (Model 123, 126)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Models 123, 126

Rubber boot (8f) check carefully for leakage and good condition.

If a rubber boot is leaky (e.g. grease exiting) the affected joint or upper wishbone (6) must be replaced immediately, because dirt getting in can ruin the joint within a very short time.

Replacement of the rubber boot is permissible only when it is absolutely certain that dirt has not gotten into the inside of the joint.

Check upper wishbone (6) follower joint for play.

Models 107, 123, 126

Have a second mechanic move the vehicle back and forth in the lateral direction with force by holding on to the bumper at the side.

Check play in ball joint by feeling ball joint and steering knuckle.

Check play on opposite side.

If play is present in the ball joints replace upper wishbone (6) after obtaining separate order.

Model 140

Jack up vehicle at front to relieve load on joints.

Check play in follower joint by pulling and pushing on the front wheel with force while simultaneously feeling ball joint.

Check play on opposite side.

If play is present in the ball joints replace upper wishbone (6) after obtaining separate order.