Vito 120 steering problem

[Gadget TNT]

Hi I have a 2009 Vito 120 Sport.

the steering starting getting very heavy and difficult to move at the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions.

Suspected the rack so a recon unit was fitting for GSF.

this improved it but it was still heavy, a new pump was then fitted supplied from Merc.

This then gave the van nice light steering for about a week...

It then got heavy again and would on occasions go light for a short period,

Not sure what else to check has anyone had similar issue.

 

[Vitobrabus]

Possibly a universal joint locking up. Not sure on the Vito but some vehicles have a splined telescoping section. Of this is dry and jammed up it would cause uneven stiffness

 

[wu56Shoozz]

May be an inner tie rod like Vitobrabus says...

 

[Gadget TNT]

Vitobrus I assume you are referring the UJ on the steering Column.
I will disconnect the column from the Rack and check this week.

The inner tie rods and track rod ends we replaced with the rack.

It has been suggested by a mechanic I know that the pipes could be breaking up inside, has anyone experience this.

 

[Gadget TNT]

The other thing I am questioning is weather I'm using the right fluid, Currently I have been using Dextron III

 

[zenman63]

The fluid should be genuine MB, its cheap enough.
Does it make any noise, whining when you turn?

 

[Gadget TNT]

No noise when turning, slight noise at full lock when it hits the stops