350SL (3.5) steering coupling rebuild parts.

[Stumps]

Hi all, Have read a lot of great advice on how to rebuild the steering coupling on my 1971 350SL (early euro 3.5 with 4 speed auto).

I ordered the bits per my original parts manual but then referring to some of the tips here and even the Merc 107 manual for assembly...I do not seem to have the spring washer? What's on the car is not much help...only the lock ring. (assume from poor repairs long before me).
The bits I got per drawing are 61,62,63,64:
steel washer (not spring), bush, plastic washer and lock ring respectively.

Would there be any difference for an early 450SL to a 350SL? I would not have thought so.

Could anyone advise:
1/ Do you think I need the spring washer?
2/ If so what is the part number please.
3/ Any other info.






Thanks for any assistance,

Cheers Shane. Brisbane Australia

[rowdie]

I checked the MB parts catalog. Part #67 in your chart, lock washer, is the same part number on the 450SL.

[meltedpanda]

I do think that refers to the lock washer .
However the main thing to remember is to limit too much movement. It looks like your are rebuilding the original coupler, mine was so wallowed I it was beyond hope?
If you are ,be sure the pins fit snuggly

[Stumps]

Thanks for comments...I will get the spring washers anyway and see how it all comes together. Looking forward to the tight steering hopefully.

[Stumps]

All MB bits finally arrived (plastic washer on other side of bush had to come from Germany)... rebuilt the coupling as per the parts manual bits and nice tight fit. Drives like a new one...

Followed CTaylor738's well documented procedure here of lifting the shaft..great stuff. Note that for a Right Hand Drive also had to remove foot rest plastic mould as it sits against the removable firewall plate around the shaft housing.

Thanks for all the info posted over years by all