560sl Power Steering Pump

[1987560SL]

I have a 1987 560SL. I know I need to replace a hose but the mechanic said I need to new pump too. I have some intermittent noise when turning but only at slower speeds. How would you know when a new pump is needed. And, what is a fair price to pay for this? Is this something I can do myself. I am mechanical in plumbing and electrical but not too much on cars.

[page62]

If you can do plumbing, you can swap out the power steering pump. Click on the "Buy Parts" link at the top of the page to get parts prices.

And find some decent manuals. MBUSA sells one for about $25 on CD-ROM, shipped.

[Strife]

Be careful about getting one with a matching pressure rating (the regulator within the pump). This was upped with the 560SL. Results of using an older pump are unknown and probably unsafe (not enough assist?). I bring this up because you see a lot of "fits 73-89" used parts. I think my 85 380SL is 65 and the 560 is 83 or 85.

[ctaylor738]

Strife makes a good point (as usual). The 560 had wider tires, which would take more assist to turn when parking.

[JPMOSE]

If your pump is making noise, make sure that the power steering filter isn't the culprit. Often an overlooked maintenance item that should be changed every 60k - 75k miles, they get clogged up and restrict the flow of fluid. This can cause pump noise.

I wouldn't be surprised if most are never changed!

[KCM]

Those pumps look bullet-proof to me, definitely heavier built than on American cars. They are just a simple vane pump. As JPMOSE said, check and/or replace the filter. Drain, flush with new fluid, and fill only with power steering fluid, not automatic transmission fluid (ATF). ATF can cause the pump to make strange noises. I bet the pump is fine.