Best/easiest way to replace steering coupler... - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Richard Wooldridge · #1 03-02-2006, 02:44 PM

Hello there,
I need to replace the steering coupler on my '79 450SL, and am wondering if anyone has tried replacing it by slightly raising the steering shaft after moving the cover on the firewall up a few inches? It looks like it could possibly be easier than removing the steering box. Comments?

ctaylor738 · #2 03-02-2006, 04:09 PM

This has been discussed several times, at least once by me.

You don't need to move the box!

Richard Wooldridge · #3 03-02-2006, 06:09 PM

Hi Chuck,
I'm already done with it, I lifted the steering shaft a couple inches and was able to replace the coupler. The only hard part was loosening the old allen screws. I think it took me possibly an hour and a half to complete the job. By the way, the adjustment for the steering box is on the top of the steering gear, you can easily see it with the steering shaft boot pulled up.

ctaylor738 · #4 03-02-2006, 10:30 PM

Glad it went well for you. Could you explain a bit more how you did this? I don't understand how you got the coupling out without moving either the steering box or the steering shaft.

Thanks

Richard Wooldridge · #5 03-02-2006, 11:55 PM

Hi again,
I DID lift the steering shaft a couple inches. Here's the entire scenario as I remember it...
1. Remove Steering wheel.
2. Remove the 4 allen screws holding the upper shaft bearing retainer.
3. Remove cover over turn signal, it just unsnaps, and remove the two screws holding the turn signal assy (at steering wheel end of assy.) Leave the key in so the steering lock is disengaged.
4. Loosen clamp on shaft housing boot, remove 4 screws, lift boot as far as it will go.
5. Working through the hole, loosen and remove the two steering coupler allen screws. It may be necessary to work from underneath to loosen the screw on the steering box side.
6. Lift steering shaft, and after noting the position of the coupler, remove coupler. Reassemble in reverse order. Make sure the coupler is on the steering box in the same position as the old one was removed so the turn signal lever will cancel properly and the steering wheel will be positioned as it was.
Total time, less than 1 1/2 hr for entire job.

By the way, I find it interesting that the factory manual tells you how to rebuild the steering coupler, but doesn't describe how to replace it! I have both the older and the newer body and chassis manuals, they both read the same in section 46, the steering section.