w108 steering box

[vandor]

OK, so now that I have the heads off I have really good access to the steering box. I have never driven this car, but most 108s seem to have really sloppy steering. I think most of this is due to worn steering boxes. I see there is an adjusting nut at the top. I've adjusted manual steering boxes, but not ones with P/S.
Could someone tell me the adjustment procedure, please?
Thanks,

Csaba
72 280SE 4.5

[Tom Drew]

I would check for worn bushings in the steering coupling first before adjusting the box. Far more likely.

Tom

[wbain5280]

Please check everything in the steering linkage first. This includes the idler arm and steering damper as well. Make the the alignment marks on the bottom of the box are aligned. There is a small bolt on top used to insert an alignment tool.

There is also a lateral rod that goes from the center of the front suspension sub frame to the chassis on the passenger side so check this and make sure it's not broken or rusted. Check the steering linkage ball joints.

The subframe mounts need to be checked to make sure the rubber is not broken or damaged.

Front suspension also needs to be check for wear, the kingpins, upper and lower trunions (bolts) inner attachments. The complete front suspension needs to be greased and frequently.

So to wrap up, the steering box is the last thing to adjust. All other wear items need to be check and replaced if worn.

Get a service manual.

[Pooka]

You will need to get the front end off the ground to check all of these items.

If they feel nice and tight then good, but if there is any axial play then it is time to replace them.

If your Kingpins feel worn then I think these can be rebushed cheaper than they can be replaced, but this is something I have not done in years so the suggested repairs on this might have changed.

The steering box is touchy. Don't adjust it until it becomes clear it is the cause of a steering problem.

[Tomguy]

FYI,
The reason all this advice has been posted is that the steering box adjustment is VERY sensitive, and 1/4 turn on a loose box can be too much; 1/4th turn on a properly spec'd box will cause premature wear and possibly failure. If your steering pulls back to center on its own when you let go of the wheel during a turn it's probably just right.

[vandor]

OK, thanks guys!

[wbain5280]

BTW, there is supposed to be a slight looseness in the steering which is controlled by the steering damper.

The steering gear adjustment is opposite of other cars, unscrewing it tightens the adjustment, screwing it in loosens it.

[werminghausen]

I have changed the seals and done the adjustment of the steering box according the book.
But the seal kit and take the box out of the car... you replace the bushings of the coupler at the same time.
You need to build the stop screw for the center point of the the box and you need a big vice to get the box fixed somehow.
You'll find the information on the M100 forum under my name.
it is not that touch...just the last adjustment of the small screw is the tricky part. I can guide you through if you want.