winter leaking of the rear end.

[Dave Vanecek]

My 280 sl leaks rear end fluid only in the cold winter months of storage.
What can be done to stop the leaking? :?:

[jeffc280sl]

Can you see where the leak is coming from?  Possible locations:

1)wheel seals near axle end and brakes
2)differential seam (there are 6 or 8 bolts that hold the diff sections together) are the bolts tight.  there is no seal in this area
3)filler and drain plugs
4)flexible boot  -  clean the boot very good and see if you can spot a split or crack in the rubber.  The rubber is very thick so you can pinch and pull it a little to try and locate a crack.  If the outside looks good I would drain the fluid and remove the boot one side at a time.  I would clean the inside edges of the rubber boot and the axle and diff ends. Check the end of the boot for cracks also. Once everything is clean reinstall that boot side and tighten the clamps.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[mdsalemi]

Dave,

Last spring, when I was about to release my car from storage, I noticed two puddles underneath my car--oil and transmission fluid.

I happened to mention this to our MBCA Regional Director, Frank Cozza, who has a W113 and has had it for many years.

He said don't worry about it--the cold and lack of use shrunk the seals.  As soon as you "get going" again with anything resembling regular usage in more reasonable temperatures, it'll go away and you'll be fine.

He was right.  

Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red 568G w/Black Leather (Restored)
President, International Stars Section
Mercedes-Benz Club of America

[Dave Vanecek]

Yes Mike your friend Frank is right on the money.
When I bought the car 10 years ago the owner told me the same thing.
In the spring I fill it up and with the warm weather it doesnt leak at all.
I was told by a truck mech. that there is a organic fluid that would stop the leak but I havent been able to find it.
I put a tray under the car in winter to catch the leak but if it isn,t to much trouble I would fix just to give myself something to do.
Last year my son and I replaced all the springs and rubber parts in the suspention front and back which only took about 6 hrs. and was fun.
The ride is realy smooth like butter.
Thanks for the reply.
Dave V.
Mahogany and camel
1971 sl

[Dave Vanecek]

Jeff,
It looks like it is coming from #2 and the bolts are tight will check them again this weekend.
Thanks for the help.
Dave V.