steering box adjustment

[chatteris]

Is it possible to adjust the steering box on a w202 c240 I seem to have some free play in the straight ahead position which shows up when the engine is not running
I know a box will not be as precise as a rack but it does not feel right, I have recently fitted a new drag link and have checked this and the free play is definitely in the box.

 

[Glenn Smith]

I have the same on my c230k, can't get any answers on what the limits are, there is an adjuster, under the heat shield, i might have a go, you turn the adjuster anti clock to tighten, a small amount only!!!
Anyone had any experienc or know the limits?

 

[Alex Argent]

Is it possible to adjust the steering box on a w202 c240 I seem to have some free play in the straight ahead position which shows up when the engine is not running
I know a box will not be as precise as a rack but it does not feel right, I have recently fitted a new drag link and have checked this and the free play is definitely in the box.

I also have a C240 with similar characteristics! It's been the same since I've owned it (4 years) but hasn't got any worse. When I pointed this out on a routine service to an MB stealer last year, the response was that this is normal on this model and 'adjustment' is neither necessary nor required. For information, it's also sailed through the annual MOT's since I've owned it.
Even at low speeds, the steering is very positive, and even slight pressure on the wheel moves the car accordingly. IMHO, I wouldn't worry too much about it.

 

[Ian B Walker]

The limit is 1 inch play in the steering wheel. The adjustment to the box only makes the steering harder to move. I have experimented with this problem on my ex 200T and in the end replaced the box with one from a donor car.

 

[Glenn Smith]

1 inch play, is this in the spec? is this ahead or turned engine on or off?

 

[Ian B Walker]

1 inch play, is this in the spec? is this ahead or turned engine on or off?

Engine off, wheels ahead, turn wheel left and right. 1 inch either side.

 

[Glenn Smith]

Don't think I'm there yet, thanks for usefull info, I'll measure later to double check.