Steering wheel angled??

[ragtopper]

Was putting steering wheel back on after having odometer fixed, and while driving to ensure that steering wheel was in alignment, I noticed that something didn't look right...
The steering wheel appears to be "angled" horizontally to the left.

So I put a tape measure to top spokes of wheel and measured to blinker indicators on both sides of dashboard.
Sure enough...right side measures approx 6" and left side approx 5".

Surely I didn't "bend" the steering wheel during removal/replacement???
Or, does dashboard have slight angle? Doesn't appear to.

Note: While wheel was off, I tightened the four (8mm?) allen bolts on the "facing" that steering wheel lays on. Left side bolts were a little loose. Overtightening wouldn't change the "plane" would it???

Still scratchin my head....
Insight?


Ragtopper
82 380SL

[TheDon]

thats how all of Mercedes Benz automobiles are.

[ragtopper]

sheeesh! I gotta get rid of this damn thing.
Getting waaay too anal about it....
Thx.

Ragtopper
82 380SL

[Alkraut]

I remember reading that there was a purpose for angling the wheel. I think it was for ease of entry. There may be other reasons. There are a few "unique" features in this car.

[450slcya]

Originally Posted by Alkraut

I remember reading that there was a purpose for angling the wheel. I think it was for ease of entry. There may be other reasons. There are a few "unique" features in this car.

A simple case of function over form. Space limitations and steering geometry relegate the steering gear to a mounting location inboard of the drivers position. A u-joint style steering coupler could have straightened the column relative to the driver, but would have affected road feedback.

[Strife]

Another grim, but plausible possibility: the slight angle may help the column collapse in an accident.