w126 Steering/alignment
 

Hello everyone,
I have an 83 300sd. It has a little misalignment but not enough to be a major problem to worry about now. But my steering wheel has a lot of play. I would guess that it has over 2 inches of play. Also, there is a clunk sound when I move the wheel from side to side with the play. Is it the steering box? I am planning on getting the tie rods looked at but I figure that this is a steering box issue. Is this an easy fix or will it be expensive?

DK

Need more info. that clunk can be tie rod, idler arm, pitman arm, ball joints, worn bushings, guide rod, etc.

Re4search on how to test the suspension, You can save a heap o' cash if you DIY, or buy the needed parts and take them to the shop that is doing the alignment.

Are you saying 2" of play to one side or side-to-side total?

I would try to tighten the adjustment screw on the box first, and see if it fixes the issue. but plan on needing tierods, and idler arm kit.
John

okay,
could you tell me more about the screw you are talking about? I read in a couple of posts of adjusting it but it has always been in a gasser and none of the parts match up in a diesel.

I will look into researching the other areas. Sounds like I might need a full front end job. Nice.... Would it be a diy job?

DK

The clunk sounds like it is coming from the steering column and not the suspension area. I still have my winter tires on. Could they have an impact on my front end?

DK

There's an allen screw on top of the steering box. Loosen the lock nut then turn the allen key to tighten. I can't remember which way. You can do a search or trial and error.
One inch is the max play but don't overtighten.

Danny