Steering box too much play. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

SD300 · #1 02-12-2006, 06:04 AM

I have a 77 W 123, is a 240D. The steering box still has 3-4 inches free play. Don't think it has improved after tighten the allen nut and bolt. Undo bolt then tighten the allen key.

My other w 116 300SD had this done, it got a lot tighter.

Any suggestion? Get another steering box, or any rebuild kit avail?

TIA please email me at willc733@yahoo.com

bazzle · #2 02-12-2006, 07:42 AM

When you adj the free play you must ensure box is dead central or it will tighten as it goes past the centre and "may" get damaged.
Adj is not the sort of thing to just screw it up and itll be right.

Check your other steering joints and wheel bearings for wear. Get someone to hold their hand over a joint to feel for play as you wiggle the steering wheel.

Bazzle

Ron in SC · #3 02-12-2006, 08:34 AM

I believe the way to reduce freeplay by adjusting the allen screw is as follows:
loosen the bolt,
turn the allen screw counterclockwise about 1/8th of a turn,
tighten bolt,
see it freeplay reduced.

If not repeat process.

SD300 · #4 02-12-2006, 01:50 PM

Thanks to everbody, I probably have a front end fellow to check her. He can be trusted. Last time he saved me 2 ball joint on a Toyo. When another shop insist they were worn.

Richard Wooldridge · #5 02-12-2006, 09:50 PM

Ron in SC is correct - you must turn the allen screw COUNTERCLOCKWISE to tighten the steering on that particular steering gear. The allen screw pulls the shaft upwards to eliminate the free play. I imagine you made the free play worse if you "tightened" the allen screw.

SD300 · #6 02-12-2006, 10:48 PM

Has anybody know 115 ( 76 and older model ) steering box are compatible with 123?

dkveuro · #7 02-13-2006, 12:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard Wooldridge

Ron in SC is correct - you must turn the allen screw COUNTERCLOCKWISE to tighten the steering on that particular steering gear. The allen screw pulls the shaft upwards to eliminate the free play. I imagine you made the free play worse if you "tightened" the allen screw.

FYI.......
The allen screw actually pushes down against the pitman arm shaft that is being pushed up by a spring. Mesh engagement is beneath the worm, not on top like most steering boxes.

This is why you loosen the allen screw to reduce steering free play.

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