Mercedes-Benz W210 propshaft support bearing and whining
My W210 whines or drones from the propshaft tunnel, is the support bearing faulty?
It is a common cause. The rubber and bearing of a worn support bearing cause whining, droning, knocking when shifting, or vibration above 100 km/h. The noise can be louder when cold and quieter as it warms up. After replacing the bearing and the rubber, the noise has stopped.
How is the W210 propshaft support bearing fault tested?
Check whether the propshaft wobbles at the middle. Pull away with the wheel turned sharply and moderate throttle: a bearing fault is felt as a shudder. If the propshaft bangs when accelerating, also check the flex joints and the propshaft alignment. The support rubber is still the most common cause.
Why does the propshaft whine after a new support bearing?
The bearing must be pressed into the support with heat, not by hammering, since a bearing installed by force can start to howl. Spacers left between the support and the body and a crooked propshaft alignment also cause howling, so check the alignment before tightening the bolts.