front end shimmy on 81 300D
 

I had the ball joints and tie rods replaced about 2 years ago. I've noticed while driving that there was a rumble at highway speeds. When driving at 20mph, the steering wheel moves from side to side...a shimmy. The steering wheel also has quite a bit of play in it from 12o'clock to 2 o'clock. What should I look for since the front end was rebuilt recently?
Thanks,
Clint

Check the front end components any way, including what was replaced.

Also check wheel bearings, brake rotors, pads and calipers.

Check all rubber bushings.

Check for play in the steering box.

Have the tires been rotated and ballanced recently? Steering box play is adjustable at allen bolt w/19mm securing collar. The allen turns *counter-clockwise* to tighten it, opposite of what you'd expect. Best to paint mark allen adjuster original position first and then test drive at 1/4 - 1/2 turn intervals. With 190k miles on my '79 240 the adjuster has been tightened 3/4 turn (counter-clockwise) from original position. Making the steering too tight with zero end-play, steering gear nylon bushings will self-destruct.

If the steering wheel rocks side to side at 20 mph, you have a tire with a broken belt. Inspect for obvious tire damage. jack the car up in front and spin the tires to note a warped tire. Or have a tire shop ck it.

I second the tire problem as the most likely cause. I would move the wheels from the back to the front one side at a time to isolate it to the offending tire. Not positive you could visually spot it. Or just put the spare tire on one front side then the other if you do not catch it with the first change.