460 SWB 300GD Propshaft problem

5 replies [Last post]
Mon, 14/06/2010 - 09:53
jfdi
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Joined: 12.02.2010
Location: Wilts

Hi
I'm trying to fix a vibration while driving, worst at 45mph but present all the time and both in and out of gear. You can feel a strong vibration on the transfer case selector lever. Gearbox lever is vibration free.

I'm suspecting propshaft(s) and on inspection there's visible play in the rear UJ on the rear propshaft so this is a prime candidate.

I was planning to remove and send to a propshaft balancing/rebuilding specialist but I found this massive vibration damper between the front of the shaft and the transfer case:

My questions:
1. Is it necessary (possible?) to balance the propshaft complete with vibration damper attached?
2. Is it possible to run without the vibration damper?
3. Any tips on getting the thing off!!?? Access to the UJ nuts and bolts seems very difficult with it in place.

Any other thoughts/advise gratefully received.
Thanks for your help,
Rgds
JFDI

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Mon, 14/06/2010 - 12:45
#1
prwales
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Re: 460 SWB 300GD Propshaft problem

does the vibration get worse above this speed and does the front end of the car feel like its trying to jump about? If this is the case the answer is your steering damper and both a common fault and something a lot easier, though still quite expensive to fix.

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Mon, 14/06/2010 - 13:02
#2
Jdring
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Location: South of Oxford, UK. 87' 230GE SWB Manual, 89' 230GE SWB Auto, 2012 G350Bluetec LWB
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Re: 460 SWB 300GD Propshaft problem

Doesn't sound like steering damper - I had that and its much more of a classic 'shaking steering wheel' and tank-slapper wheel wobble symptom, than vibration through the 4WD gear selector.
Does sound like rear propshaft issue to me, but I'm no mechanic.

The steering damper btw was about 90GBP and 5 mins to fit, so not too bad at all.

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Mon, 14/06/2010 - 13:12
#3
jfdi
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Re: 460 SWB 300GD Propshaft problem

Thanks for the quick replies - no, it's not the steering damper, new one fitted recently and quite stable at speed.
Rgds
JFDI

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Mon, 14/06/2010 - 16:45
#4
hus55
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Re: 460 SWB 300GD Propshaft problem

remove the vibration damper and get it overhauled... there are bearings in there that are probablycaked in muck thats like cement by now and the damper is not earning it keep :wink:

you could however remove it i guess and fit a later model shaft...

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Mon, 14/06/2010 - 18:44
#5
fixwin38
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Location: northern ireland
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Re: 460 SWB 300GD Propshaft problem

Hi start with the most obvious..the worn U/J and grease the six nipples on the u/js until they ooze clean grease.. rusty slides (the inner and outer sections of the propshafts) will give you all sorts of vibrations if stuck and looking at the pic servicing of these items which should be done yearly may be a bit overdue....crosses --ujs cannot be purchased from MB but are available forGBP 65 + vat per end.. trouble is a lot of the shafts have (spiked) ujs rather than circlips so not a DIY job.....

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