Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?

[waqas]

Does anyone know if any maintenance is required in the drive-shaft centering spider? (#35 in the figure below)



It looks like it contains parts 36-39.  I have it out and I'm wondering if I should do anything to it besides re-packing with grease. It looks fine (tight ball, spring, etc).

By the way, what grease is best for the drive-shaft?  Can I use bearing grease here?

Thanks!

Waqas in Austin, Texas

[ja17]

Hello Waqas,

The only maintenance for the bushing is greasing it. A good synthetic grease is best these days. Do not overgrease. Grease on the rubber flex disc will decrease it's life!

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[waqas]

Thanks Joe!

I'm in the midst of replacing my flex disc (finally!) and I thought I'd ask about this spider. Regarding letting grease get to the flex disc, I discovered that I was missing the seal #50, and had a very crusty o-ring seal between the spider and the shaft (both seals are supplied with my Jurid flex disc kit).

Waqas in Austin, Texas

[glennard]

Were 36-39 used on other models? Does 39 (the C-clip) clip to the tranny tail piece?  What is 27?    Is it the bearing in the support collar?

[jeffc280sl]

I have these parts on mt 1970 280SL.

The c clip holds 36, 36 ,37 and 38 in flange 35.

27 is the center section of the mid shaft rubber drive shaft support bushing

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[glennard]

Do 36, 37, 38 ride on the tranny tail piece?

[waqas]

quote:Originally posted by glennard

Do 36, 37, 38 ride on the tranny tail piece?

Glenn,
From what I understand, you are correct. The rear transmission shaft rides in the ball #37, while the two bushings #36 keep the ball centered. The spring #38 keeps the ball under pressure, and the circlip #39 holds this entire assembly within the spider/flange. The forward grease nipple on the drive-shaft keeps this assembly lubricated.

Waqas in Austin, Texas

[jeffc280sl]

Wagas' explanation is correct.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed