W221 Family,



I need some advice. I installed a rack and pinion and did not center the rack prior to installation. This has caused the wheel to be off center Not to mention, steering wheel to be off center. Limitation in steering as a whole was impacted.



My question is, can the rack be centered without having to uninstall? Also, what tool would you recommend to use to adjust the rack as I don't want to damage the splines?



I appreciate any and all advice.

 

From the WIS:
1 - Turn rack-and-pinion steering to center position.
- Turn rack-and-pinion steering far enough for the marking on the cover cap to line up with the marking on the control valve casing (arrows).
2 - Mount steering coupling.

 

Thank you for your response. My challenge is that the rack is already installed. I believe that the rack was off center prior to installation. My question is can the rack be centered (steering coupling off) on the vehicle? If so, using what tool so splines won't get damaged.

 

you'll upset the bit that really matters.... under the airbag is the "clock spring" that tells the ESP where the car is driving - whilst it can be reset - I don't know how much leeway you get - and as its also has to do with the madness of the connections for all the steering wheels buttons...

I'd pop the joint off - centre the rack - centre the steering wheel - then connect the lower joint again and see how close you get to the picture !!!
then when that's about right give it a drive - get the tracking done - then check in diagnostics how mad the ESP thinks you messed it up

 

Thank you for your response! Your saying you would pop off the steering collar and cebter the rack? If so, is it possible to center the rack without dropping it? And what tool would you suggest to avoid marring the splines?

 

not tried - see what WIS says ?