SL/R107: Removal of the steering wheel on a 1989 560sl
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Newbie
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 3
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1989 Mercedes 560sl
Removal of the steering wheel on a 1989 560sl
I have problerm with my SRS flashing on the dash. I built a code reader/reset tool and tested the SRS system. It came up with a fault code of 3, Driver air bag(slip rings or brushes). My next problem is how to get the steering wheel off.
I have read other post and I couldn't find step by step instructions to remove the steering wheel.
I figure while the steering wheel is off that I would replace all the lights in the dash. Is there anything else I should check while I'm in there?
Thanks for any help
Bob
I have read other post and I couldn't find step by step instructions to remove the steering wheel.
I figure while the steering wheel is off that I would replace all the lights in the dash. Is there anything else I should check while I'm in there?
Thanks for any help
Bob
Member
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 207
Likes: 37
From: Beaverdam, VA
W123 300CD, R107 560SL, W211 E320
From memory
Disable airbag:
1. Disconnect battery
2. Lift passenger side carpet and padding, then unplug red connector
Remove two star-drive bolts from back side of steering wheel.
1. Don't remember size but you will need a long-reach bit.
Lift off center pad and air bag. Disconnect air bag connector.
Set airbag aside in a safe place.
Remove center bolt. I think 14mm hex (Allen).
1. This bolt has a tapered seat and will be very tight.
2. Do not use the steering lock to hold the wheel. It can be damaged. I used air impact.
3. If no air, some have had success bracing wheel to floor using 2x4 lumber.
Wheel can now be easily lifted off of splines.
1. Mark location before removing to preserve alignment.
When replacing, try to remove locking compound from center bolt. It complicates future removal and I think it is vast overkill. The tapered seat and a one-grunt tightening is sufficient to keep wheel from coming off in your hands.
1. Disconnect battery
2. Lift passenger side carpet and padding, then unplug red connector
Remove two star-drive bolts from back side of steering wheel.
1. Don't remember size but you will need a long-reach bit.
Lift off center pad and air bag. Disconnect air bag connector.
Set airbag aside in a safe place.
Remove center bolt. I think 14mm hex (Allen).
1. This bolt has a tapered seat and will be very tight.
2. Do not use the steering lock to hold the wheel. It can be damaged. I used air impact.
3. If no air, some have had success bracing wheel to floor using 2x4 lumber.
Wheel can now be easily lifted off of splines.
1. Mark location before removing to preserve alignment.
When replacing, try to remove locking compound from center bolt. It complicates future removal and I think it is vast overkill. The tapered seat and a one-grunt tightening is sufficient to keep wheel from coming off in your hands.
Last edited by rocky raccoon; Feb 10, 2013 at 08:06 AM. Reason: add information
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
1989 Mercedes 560sl
Thanks to silk560 and rocky racoon for the information that you both provided me. I am now on my way to remove the steering wheel.
I removed the carpet on the passenger side and in the foot well there was a
sticker telling me about the red plug. I found that I need to get a long shaft 4mm hex to remove the steering wheel.
Thanks again to both of you for providing me the information to complete this job. I will keep you posted with pictures as I go along.
I removed the carpet on the passenger side and in the foot well there was a
sticker telling me about the red plug. I found that I need to get a long shaft 4mm hex to remove the steering wheel.
Thanks again to both of you for providing me the information to complete this job. I will keep you posted with pictures as I go along.
Member
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 207
Likes: 37
From: Beaverdam, VA
W123 300CD, R107 560SL, W211 E320
Steering wheel removal tool
Laser:
It is not a hex. The proper tool is a star drive size T40. Still need a long reach. Available any auto supply house.
Sometimes a hex may work but you stand the chance of buggering the socket.
It is not a hex. The proper tool is a star drive size T40. Still need a long reach. Available any auto supply house.
Sometimes a hex may work but you stand the chance of buggering the socket.
