SL/R107: Changing steering wheel
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 1
Likes: 1
1987 560SL
First ensure the ignition is in the OFF position and key removed. Then disconnect the negative battery connection -- I like to cover with an insulator (piece of wood) to prevent accidental reconnection. Next pull the carpet from the passenger side and remove the panel there. There should be a nice big warning sticker about the SRS system. Disconnect the red 11-pin connector.
Now you can remove the 2 T25 Torx connectors that hold the airbag onto the steering wheel from behind-- it can be a bit tight so a short Torx driver is easier. The screws will likely stay in the steering wheel but you can now remove the airbag and remove the red connector on the back.
Be sure to place it somewhere safe, with emblem up so an accidental discharge doesn't launch the metal backing somewhere bad.
Not sure how to disable SRS for when the new steering wheel is in place. I think the SRS does more than just the airbag (seatbelt tensioner on impact, for example) so you probably dontt want to disable it completely. If all else fails just pull the bulb from the SRS warning light I suppose.
Now you can remove the 2 T25 Torx connectors that hold the airbag onto the steering wheel from behind-- it can be a bit tight so a short Torx driver is easier. The screws will likely stay in the steering wheel but you can now remove the airbag and remove the red connector on the back.
Be sure to place it somewhere safe, with emblem up so an accidental discharge doesn't launch the metal backing somewhere bad.
Not sure how to disable SRS for when the new steering wheel is in place. I think the SRS does more than just the airbag (seatbelt tensioner on impact, for example) so you probably dontt want to disable it completely. If all else fails just pull the bulb from the SRS warning light I suppose.
Member
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 207
Likes: 37
From: Beaverdam, VA
W123 300CD, R107 560SL, W211 E320
I have done precisely this.
My car was a 1988 560SL. It is pretty much as oncebitter describes. The onLy differences with his description are:
- The Torx is a T30 and you will need a LONG one instead of a short.
The reach to the head of the fastener is too long for a short Torx.
- If you leave the connector under the carpet unplugged you will not
get an airbag fault light but as he said, other functions may be
disabled also.
Your biggest problem is going to be removing the central flathead steering wheel bolt. For some reason MB fears the steering wheel coming off in your hands. That bolt is VERY tight and has some aggressive threadlocker on it. I found it useful to apply heat from a heatgun before I could remove it. I also used air impact. It does not have to go on nearly as tightly.
- The Torx is a T30 and you will need a LONG one instead of a short.
The reach to the head of the fastener is too long for a short Torx.
- If you leave the connector under the carpet unplugged you will not
get an airbag fault light but as he said, other functions may be
disabled also.
Your biggest problem is going to be removing the central flathead steering wheel bolt. For some reason MB fears the steering wheel coming off in your hands. That bolt is VERY tight and has some aggressive threadlocker on it. I found it useful to apply heat from a heatgun before I could remove it. I also used air impact. It does not have to go on nearly as tightly.
