Mercedes w208 clk200 tail shaft coupling

Vehicle

Mercedes CLK200 w208 with a 2.0l Kompressor engine

Symptom:

Vehicle came in with noise shifting from reverse to drive a clunk was audible and a thud/bang was noticeable especially when cold as the engine rpm was higher during cold start.

Repair:

We raised the vehicle on the hoist for an inspection and found the front tail shaft rubber coupling worn
We removed the bolts and continued to remove the coupling from the tail shaft installed the new coupling and tested for any other play in the tail shaft including the center bearing.
Test drove the vehicle and found that shifting from reverse to drive is now a smooth operation.
During a normal service routine it is good to check all the rubber mounts for play and normal wear and tear, this ensures a vehicle that is smooth and ready for safe and reliable driving.

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