nc1wynot

Hey Guys.

Once again, yet another "issue".

I've searched on here for some info on the creaking noise heard from front end when steering right/left at slow speeds. Especially when pulling into parking spaces. But havent really found anything specific to my problem. i was hoping I could get some assistance, once again.

I was flushing/filter the tranny today and decided to take a look at the front end to see if I could find something. I found the boots on both sides on the tie rods leaking a small amount of grease. Nothing dripping or squirting but there were definately signs on the boots. (Notice from the image).

My questions are...What would you guys replace/fix first to repair this "creaking" noise? Any DIY guide to do it? What parts/tools required? Remember, the car is only 36k miles old.

Thanks a lot guys.

- Steve

Glyn M Ruck

There should be no fluid in the rack boots - If there is you have leaking rack seals. You say grease - if it is it's flung up there somehow.

See TruTaing's suspension thread for sorting creaks & groans.

nc1wynot

Thanks again Glyn.

I ordered the inner rods and boot kits. Do you think this will solve my problem? Looks like a pretty easy DIY.

- Steve

johnand

Steering rack bushings.

Glyn M Ruck

You might need new rack seals as well If you find PS fluid in the boots.

nc1wynot

Rack Bushings & Seals...

Are these a DIY? And any idea the part numbers and average price?

Thanks for the help guys. Whats frustrating is I can't make it make the sound now. Its like it happens once a month. But when it does I want it fixed.

- Steve

nc1wynot

Anyone...anyone?....

thanks,

-Steve

nlpamg

I'm having the same issue.

Please keep us updated.

Thanks.

Glyn M Ruck

Benz does not officially sell the seals - only the full rack. They must be available because rebuilt racks are available. There is a thread here somewhere on the bush replacement. I can't find it. will keep looking. Bushes are available but not shown in my copy of the EPC so I don't know the P/N.

Let me find that thread.

pcy

On-line EPC shows the seals. Which engine does OP's car has? M111, M271? I will post the EPC diagram with seals.

However, there is no guarantee replacing the seals will solve the issue. It may be worthwhile to look for places that sell rebuilt racks.

nc1wynot

I believe its the M271.

Thanks !

- Steve

Glyn M Ruck

Fantastic pcy - can you post the rack bushes as well. I must get an updated EPC.

pcy

Boot and clamps kit is listed in EPC. Take a look...

nc1wynot

Thanks pcy.

I purchased the kit labeled 210 and the inner labeled 80 on the second image. What are the other 2 numbers you are highlighting on the first image?

pcy

If you bought #210, then you are all set. Where did you buy kit #210?

The other 2 seals are for the PS lines. If you are not touching them, there is no need to replace them.

nc1wynot

I bought it from parts dot com.

They were the cheapest.

Thanks again,

-Steve

Glyn M Ruck

I have that but no internal rack seals are shown if you find oil in the boots.

LILBENZ230

My car definitely has bad rack bushings (official diagnosis) but it does not creak and never has. It pops.

samaritrey

funny thing matt my bushings look great even after 155k i wish i had checked them before spending the money to replace them

Xhale707

Mine does it when i reverse and turn the wheels hard. Something in the front right of my car.

LILBENZ230

Yep, that's the steering rack bushings. If you lubricate them they silence for a long time. Mine were lubed a few months ago and are still quiet.

nc1wynot

Where do you lube them? Sorry, I'm not to sure with the suspension. I see so many bushings. Which ones exactly are you talking about? Any pics?
Thanks,

- Steve

LILBENZ230

I don't have any pics.. my indy mechanic did this for me. But again, it doesn't creak. It pops.