Hello,

I have a 1989 UK 300SE when I am driving, I notice it is difficult to keep the car in a straight line. I keep have to move the steering wheel. At speed it gets even worse the car seems to slide slightly from side to side as if there is a high wind. There is also a lot of play in the steering wheel before it has any affect on the direction of travel.
I took the car to a dealer, they did all the allignment etc. But they said they couldn't fix the steering box and I needed a new one.
I will get around to replacing the steering box, but I'm worried there is something else wrong, maybe suspension related or something.
If anybody has any info, or if this is common, please help!! I feel it might be quite dangerous, espescially when i'm doing 120mph!!!!!
I have seen a steering box for sale on http://www.eurocarparts.co.uk/mercFrame.htm
I am a bit worried about using parts other than Mercedes original, any tips appreciated!

Thanks

Oliver

[This message has been edited by Oliverp (edited 10-30-2000).]

W126 are known to wander a bit at speed, especially in cross winds. Prior to replacing the steering box, ensure the steering box mounting bolts are tight, as they have a tendency to loosen with age. I had my steering "shock absorber" changed at 229K and it reduced vibration in the steering at speed quite a bit, and also appeared to help straight line tracking....however, I don't know if it was the new shock or re-tightening of the steering box bolts that helped out with the ability to track straight.

Thanks for the reply!

Is tightning the box something a novice can do? I don't really know much about the mechanics to be honest! Also, the excessive play with the steering wheel, can this be fixed? When I am driving at speed, it takes quite a big turn to move the car a little bit.

Thanks again

Oliver

[This message has been edited by Oliverp (edited 10-30-2000).]

Follow this link for a steering problem fix.
http://www.mbz.org/resources/articles/steering/renew.html

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Jason Priest
1986 420SEL

Thanks for your help.
I'll print that sheet out and give it to my dealer to do the work for me.
Thanks

Oliver