Early 230 Universal Joints

[Charles 230SL]

Several months ago I began to notice light "clicking" sounds when I rolled my car forward or backward.  I discovered that the clicking was caused from the rear U-Joint moving laterally between the bearing caps when the driveshaft rotated. This play in the u-joint could also explain the slight vibration I've been experiencing when I get the car over approx 65 mph.

I'll be replacing both u-joints shortly so I decided to go ahead and order both from MB. After looking at their prices I'm beginning to have second thoughts - MB prices for the universal joints (111-410-00-31) are in the neighborhood of $140.00 each.  Autohauzaz and PelicanParts are only asking $18.00 - $20.00 for the same u-joint (111-410-00-31).

Anyone with a 230sl replaced their U-joints recently? Any idea why such a price difference? thanks, chas

[Pawel66]

I think this is quite regular phenomenon we are facing. 

My weekend example: valve rocker at MB - EUR 130, Febi rocker, exactly same, EUR 20.

I have 280SL where you cannot buy a U-joint separately at MB, yet we go to a specialists who just replace U-joints  as they are universal. I suppose the U-joint you are looking for is pretty typical U-joint too. Probably it is about finding part of good quaity. Maybe it is better to take the car to the shop who can replace the joint and balance the shaft. They will give quarantee for repair.

On the other hand: Daimler are keeping a huge stock of parts for mobility guarantee (at least they try, but it is not 100%). The more unique parts, the more costly it is to keep the stock. It must cost money.