Sudden Collapse of my Front End Alignment--Why? 83 240D
 

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My 83 240D has tracked straight and true for years. Now, suddenly, the steering wheel needs to be cocked 30 degrees askance to make it go straight.
When I was getting some exhaust welding done , a Meineke mechanic noted that the front end was messed up and "I might as well throw the car away".
I know there isnt much to aligning the front end. Its either the tie rod links. The front end variables are:
1.Steering Rack,
2.Ball joints,
3.Bent tie rods (n/a),
4. Collapsed Shocks and that is it...

Can anyone clue me as to what is going on?

Sudden Collapse of my Front End Alignment--Why? 83 240D

The biker doing the welding obviously didn't know much if his conclusion was as you say. But, you need specifics, because you definitely have a problem. 'Collapsed shocks' don't happen, because they do not support weight, and unless you have struts, they do not determine any part of suspension geometry. Your steering gear is not rack-and-pinion, and problems that could develop with a steering box would not cause this symptom. Collapsed front suspension bushings, subframe mounts, or rear suspension parts could do it, among others. Take it to a Benz tech if you don't think you can find it.

Steve