SL/R107: MB 1980 450SL Power steering wheel play
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
mercedes 450sl
MB 1980 450SL Power steering wheel play
I am having about one inch play in the power steering wheel, recently I replaced the Drag link but did not fix the play. Does anyone has any ideas as to what is the cause of the play ? The car has only 33k original miles.
Thank you.
Temeni
Thank you.
Temeni
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,063
Likes: 26
From: Tampa, FL
2005 S500 4-Matic, 1978 450SL
1" play (1/2 " either side) is pretty normal, and I have been told that's within "new" tolerances. You may need additional steering components, including a steering box rebuild (around $700) to get rid of it, and there may still be some play. You don't have rack & pinion steering, so it's a bit looser than newer cars.
Replacing the steering coupler on my car reduced play from 8" (4" either side) to 1" (1/2 inch either side).
Replacing the steering coupler on my car reduced play from 8" (4" either side) to 1" (1/2 inch either side).
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
mercedes 450sl
1980 MB Steering play
Thank you for the information; steering box could effect the play but is very expensive job; the steering coupler propably is the way to go at less cost. Do youknow where is located in the steering assembly ? Thanks for the help !!
Temeni
Temeni
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,063
Likes: 26
From: Tampa, FL
2005 S500 4-Matic, 1978 450SL
My point is, with only 1" of play, the steering coupler is probably not the cause, and since your steering is within "new" tolerances, there may be little that you can do to improve it. However, the coupler is a small "U" joint type device located next to the steering box, at the end of the steering shaft.
The attached pdf may help you reduce play.
The attached pdf may help you reduce play.
Last edited by Skylaw; Apr 9, 2010 at 09:10 PM.
