Turn Signal Stalk/Cruise Control Arm Loose - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

SunGuy · #1 09-01-2006, 10:27 PM

Over the past couple days on my '99 SL500, I've noticed that when moving the turn signal switch up or down, it, along with the cruise control arm, move an excessive amount...about 3/4 of an inch or so. Perhaps a better way to say it is the mount or bracket on the steering column into which the turn signal stalk and cruise control switch reside is the component that is moving.

I looked for a set screw or any way to tighten this mount down, searched the forums, poured through AllData and the 129 cd and found nothing I could use. I give up...anyone know how to tighten this mount/bracket?

Thanks in advance for the help! And I hope the first sentence of your reply doesn't start with...."First, remove the steering wheel..."

Bob

Gilly · #2 09-01-2006, 11:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SunGuy

Over the past couple days on my '99 SL500, I've noticed that when moving the turn signal switch up or down, it, along with the cruise control arm, move an excessive amount...about 3/4 of an inch or so. Perhaps a better way to say it is the mount or bracket on the steering column into which the turn signal stalk and cruise control switch reside is the component that is moving.

I looked for a set screw or any way to tighten this mount down, searched the forums, poured through AllData and the 129 cd and found nothing I could use. I give up...anyone know how to tighten this mount/bracket?

Thanks in advance for the help! And I hope the first sentence of your reply doesn't start with...."First, remove the steering wheel..."

Bob

OK, I won't start it that way: You can tighten up the screws for the turn signal switch AFTER you remove the airbag and steering wheel........
Gilly
PS the lever for the cruise attaches to the turn signal so you'll be fixing both problems

SunGuy · #3 09-02-2006, 01:45 AM

Gilly,
Thanks for the reminder about that pesky airbag thing and mentioning the steering wheel second!

I really do appreciate the help and have read up on getting the airbag and wheel off. AllData says it will take a B level tech 1 hour to R & R these....in my case, I'll block out Sunday afternoon and a Heineken or two just in case.

Bob

Mike Miller · #4 09-02-2006, 12:20 PM

The really safe way to remove the air bag is to first extend the steering wheel to full back position, disconnect the battery, then pull back the carpet on the passenger side. Pull up the foot panel under the carpet. You should see a large red plug. That is to the airbags. Disconnect.
Some people might consider that overkill, but blowing an airbag will ruin your Sunday afternoon.

There are two "Torx" screws (size) holding the airbag to the steering wheel. You need a short torx screw driver to come in from the back side of the steering wheel. Lift the airbag straight off slowly. You will see a wire attached. Disconnect the plug and set aside the airbag.

Unplug the horn wire. Note the large nut in the center of the steering wheel. Remove the nut. BEFORE REMOVING THE STEERING WHEEL. CAREFULLY INDEX MARK THE WHEEL AND STEERING COLUMN. The wheel should pull off with minimum force.

You should be able to get at the attachment for CC and directionals now.

Reassemble and reverse order. REMEMBERING THAT THE BATTERY IS LAST.

SunGuy · #5 09-02-2006, 02:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike Miller

The really safe way to remove the air bag is to first extend the steering wheel to full back position, disconnect the battery, then pull back the carpet on the passenger side. Pull up the foot panel under the carpet. You should see a large red plug. That is to the airbags. Disconnect.
Some people might consider that overkill, but blowing an airbag will ruin your Sunday afternoon.

There are two "Torx" screws (size) holding the airbag to the steering wheel. You need a short torx screw driver to come in from the back side of the steering wheel. Lift the airbag straight off slowly. You will see a wire attached. Disconnect the plug and set aside the airbag.

Unplug the horn wire. Note the large nut in the center of the steering wheel. Remove the nut. BEFORE REMOVING THE STEERING WHEEL. CAREFULLY INDEX MARK THE WHEEL AND STEERING COLUMN. The wheel should pull off with minimum force.

You should be able to get at the attachment for CC and directionals now.

Reassemble and reverse order. REMEMBERING THAT THE BATTERY IS LAST.

Thanks Mike,
Disconnecting the power plug for the airbag may be a form of 'belts and suspenders', but I doubt you'd mention it if it wasn't a good idea. Thanks for the tip!

Bob

Dr_Joe · #6 09-13-2006, 02:51 AM

I had the same problem on my '98

The last time I brought it to my (very German) mechanic for something else, when he was done he said: "by the way your turn signal lever was loose, so I tightened it up"

Talk about understatement !

After reading this thread I'm so glad I didn't even attempt to tackle the job myself !

Good luck !