Steering wheel removal
 

Alright, what's the secret? I need to replace the steering wheel on my 98 E300. I tried with a socket drive 10mm allen head and a breaker bar. No luck. I then used an impact wrench and broke the socket. Is there something I'm overlooking or did someone weld that thing on there?

They are on tight and with Loctite too.

Might try it with another person holding the wheel and you with the breaker bar.

glenmore
1991 300CE
2000 C280
1990 LS400

what's the torque rating on your impact wrench and where did u get the socket? i'd get some heavy duty sockets and turn that impact gun loose.

if you were nearby i'd be more than happy to let you use my Milwaukee impact gun w/ 330lb ft of torque:)

Impact wrench works like a charm on that bolt. Be sure to use it to reinstall too - you don't want that wheel working loose while driving!

I use a piece of 3/4" steel pipe about 3 feet long put through the steering wheel spokes with some protective towels to prevent the wheel from rotating. Working on the left side of the wheel, I pull down my 1/2" drive 24" breaker bar while pushing up on the end of the pipe. With the pipe and breaker bar working against each other, no torque is transferred to the steering wheel. It works very well. Easy for one person to control. No damage at all. Keeps any pressure off of the steering wheel lock. You can get the pipe at any hardware store or home improvement center.
Dan

I like that idea. Thanks for that one, it goes in my book of helpful tips from shopforum.

Jason