I noticed that my 83 300Sd has a little play in the steering and the car seems to wander slightly. I seem to be the only one in the family that notices it. It is not dramatic but to me it seems like it has changed a little. Any suggestions?

Determine where the looseness is. With front wheels raised (supported by floor jacks to frame on each side) have a pal gently rock steering wheel back and forth from 11 o'clock to 1 o'clock while you check for play in each joint in the steering mechanism. Check the lower ball joints by putting a pry bar under each tire and lifting up. Play in steering box can be reduced by turning set screw adjustment CCW. Go easy.

Thank you. I was wondering if there was a steering box adjustment. I will try to get out there in the next day or so to check it out.

i had never noticed it, but last time i took my car in my mechanic found that the steering damper was broken and the center tie rod was worn so he replaced them. after that the steering was much better and i feel like i have much better control at high speed.

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1991 300 D 2.5 Turbo, 220k
also in the family:
1981 240 D 185k
1991 350 SD 185k
2006 S 500
2005 SLK 350