~~~!!!Wits End!!!~~~
 

OK... 1985 300TD - Rear End - Thud/Clunk over Extremely small, quick bumps. The noise is left or right specific depending on the bump location and from both sides if both tires hit the bump. Rides very well over big bumps or swooping bumps and dips in the road.

SLS works perfectly... ride height no load 12.75" from center star to wheel well. 400lbs in the back lifts to 12.75" Under load or not thud/clunk is the same.

What I have done so far:

1. Changed hydraulic filter and oil (genuine Mercedes) and checked the ride height once the all hydraulic fluid was drained to make sure all the weight of the car was on the springs and not on the struts... ride height 12.75"...the same.

2. Prior to putting new hydraulic fluid in... installed NEW Rear Strut Bushings/Mounts.

3. New Sway Bar Links.

4. New Accumulators.

5. Checked *all* Bushings and Mounts... everything tight, nothing cracked, loose or worn... vehicle tracks straight and very even wear on tires. Fuel Tank is secure and the Exhaust system is tight and flexes nicely... it does not hit anything. And Finally, the wheel bearings are smooth, snug and play free.

I really love this car and would hate to give it up but its headed to my bone yard for parts if I cannot conquer this... its that ANNOYING!

Any insight is greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

--dennis--

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1985 300D 150K
1985 300TD 196k
1996 F-350 136k (7.3L Dually)

Have you inspected Your Rear Axles to see if they are well secured. Neither end of the Axle should be able to slide in and out; particularly the ends that go in to the Rear Wheel Hubs.

Inspect the other Parts also.

I can also remember one instance where there was something in My Trunk loose that made the Noise. I removed everthing in the Trunk and went for a ride and the thump was gone.