Figure 241. Three-section cardan shaft design: 1 - Hexagon bolt, 85-90 Nm; 2 — intermediate support of the front shaft; 3 - middle shaft; 4 — intermediate support of the rear shaft; 5 — rear shaft; 6 — propeller shaft mounting bolt; 7 - washer; 8 - Hexagon bolt, 85-90 Nm; 9 — intermediate support safety bracket; 10 — propeller shaft bolt, 60–65 Nm; 11 - washer; 12 — bolt, 85–90 N·m; 13 — intermediate support safety bracket; 14 - safety bracket; 15 — front shaft; 16 — propeller shaft mounting bolt
Depending on the vehicle modification, the propeller shaft may consist of two or three sections. Their length is also not the same for different models, which is due to differences in the vehicle base and the types of gearbox installed - manual or automatic. The structure of a three-section cardan shaft is shown in the figure 241. A two-section bridge has only one intermediate support, but otherwise its connection and fastening are identical to a three-section bridge.
The cardan shaft cannot be repaired. If one or both joints fail, the entire driveshaft must be replaced. However, before purchasing a new shaft, check with your Mercedes service station to see if it can be repaired.
Material created based on the website [MercedesMAN.ru]