Having put in my rear axle, with the wheels on there is what the looks like wheel bearing wear, when the axle was out both wheel bearings were replaced, roller one on the left and self aligning on the right. The play is not noticeable with the drums only but shows with the extra leverage when wheels and tyres are on. It is much more noticeable on the RHS, play is in all directions i.e. at twelve and six as well as three and nine. There are no brake shoes fitted as present so there is nothing in the drums to clunk around.
I had the axle apart to replace all the pivot bushes as well as the rubber boot and didn't see anything untoward.
I am wondering do the ends of the half shafts wear or is there anything else that could cause the movement.
By the way its a 230sl
Thanks Keith.