Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Drive train, fuel, suspension, steering & brakes => Topic started by: waqas on May 08, 2008, 20:26:49

Title: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: waqas on May 08, 2008, 20:26:49
Does anyone know if any maintenance is required in the drive-shaft centering spider? (#35 in the figure below)

(http://sl113.org/forums/uploaded/JimVillers/2007524203226_flex-disk.jpg)

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
Title: Re: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: ja17 on May 08, 2008, 21:33:17
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
Title: Re: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: waqas on May 08, 2008, 23:05:04
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
Title: Re: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: glennard on May 09, 2008, 09:34:40
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?
Title: Re: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: jeffc280sl on May 09, 2008, 10:12:12
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
Title: Re: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: glennard on May 09, 2008, 10:18:20
Do 36, 37, 38 ride on the tranny tail piece?
Title: Re: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: waqas on May 09, 2008, 11:30:51
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
Title: Re: Drive-shaft centering spider maintenance?
Post by: jeffc280sl on May 09, 2008, 11:58:19
Wagas' explanation is correct.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed