When is loose too loose ??(steering box!)

[neilm]

Hi all, thought I would try this new(to me) web site. Certainly a mine of info. I have a merc 250td diesel-`85-have had it for 5 years or so and now note some play in the steering box (movement lost between column input and drop arm output). Does not overly affect the drive, but any idea of how much play the MOT man permits ?? I would guess 4 or so degrees wear at present.

 

[andy_k]

I'd start by looking at the steering damper - they don't last for ever and will affect the feel like you describe.

I always found the W123 steering (I'm guessing it's a 123 not an early 124) steering a bit "vague". Merc's tolerance on this before you adjust it is pretty high and certainly more than the 4 or 5 degrees you mention (I think it's nearer 10). Adjustment is a bit of a faff but van be done by turning the adjuster on top of the steering box anti clockwise in small increments once you've released the locknut.

HTH

Andy

 

[neilm]

When is loose too loose ?? (steering box)

Hi Andy,
thanks for the comment. Should have noted the car is an early W124 and so far as I am aware does not have an external adjustment on the steering box.(anyone able to correct me ??) Movement appears to be lost inside the box itself thus I suspect the damper may not be to blame. I am prepared to live with it - but would not want to have to replace it at short notice due to an MOT so am trying to ascertain at what point will it fail an MOT !

 

[andy_k]

it will have an adjuster - on top of the box and awkward to get at - be prepared to loose some skin from your knuckles

Andy

 

[Ian B Walker]

There is also a heat shield over the cover on some models, as Andy says be prepared for lost skin because the bolts that hold it on are horrid nasty little things that defy logic

 

[Dieselman]

Adjustment is best carried out with the front wheels raised so the steering can easily be turned lock to lock.
The steering box will be most worn around the straight ahaed position, so if the box is tightened up until it is just feeling tight at the dead ahead it will be too tight when turned towards full lock.

 

[neilm]

thanks all - almost feelin positive and skinned knucles much cheaper to repair than a new (£240 ish) box. Other than steering - car continues to drive A1 - now 215K showing-so will tackle this next weekend. Many thanks all,
Neil