Drive/Propeller Shaft - Alignment/Tool Set: Overview

REF.NO. 41/17

TO: OUR MERCEDES-BENZ PASSENGER CAR DEALERS

DATE: May 1995

SUBJECT:
ALL MODELS

CHECKING AND ADJUSTING OVERALL DRIVE SHAFT ALIGNMENT USING DRIVE SHAFT ALIGNMENT MEASURING TOOL SET

Complaints of driveline vibration or harshness during acceleration can be caused by deviations of drive shaft alignment angles from the nominal values.

In vehicles using two or three piece drive shafts, three or four separate drive shaft alignment angles are critical for the overall drive shaft alignment.

Overall drive shaft alignment angle can now be measured using the drive shaft alignment measuring tool set.

The measuring tool set consists of a protractor and three fixtures:

^ Fixture 1: for drive shafts and manual transmissions
^ Fixture 2: for automatic transmissions
^ Fixture 3: for rear axle center pieces




The angle is measured via a plumb line on the protractor. The measured values correspond to the absolute angles of the respective components (i.e. transmission, drive shaft, rear axle). The actual overall drive shaft angle is determined by calculating the difference (plus or minus) between the individual absolute angles (Figure 1, Examples 1 and 2).

IMPORTANT
The full weight of the vehicle being measured must rest upon the wheels.

IMPORTANT
Careful review of S.I. 41/18 (April 1995), and a thorough test drive of the vehicle to verify any noise or vibration complaint are necessary, prior to checking and adjusting overall drive shaft alignment.

Prior to starting the measurement procedure, ensure that the transmission and exhaust system are properly installed i.e. without any distortion in their mounts.

Any worn or collapsed engine, transmission or differential mounts must be replaced prior to starting the measuring procedure.




The drive shaft alignment measurement procedure is always started at the transmission side of the drive shaft. when checking the absolute angle of each component, reading the absolute angle is accomplished on the left hand side of the protractor, in the direction of travel (Figure 3).




Special Tools




Parts Information