1972 300SEL steering wheel - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

jwduffey · #1 01-09-2003, 05:39 PM

My 1972 300SEL has a what seems like a loose bolt in the center of the steering wheel. I know to expect a little play, but when I move the wheel from side to side I hear a noise that sounds like something is loose. Is there a way to tighten the wheel? Also, how would I remove the center cover? I tried to pull it off but was afraid I'd break something. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

1967250s · #2 01-09-2003, 06:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by jwduffey
My 1972 300SEL ..... Also, how would I remove the center cover? I tried to pull it off but was afraid I'd break something. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

If your center cover is anything like mine, 1967 250S, here it is held by 4 (I think) plug-in plastic type grooved nepples (not shure about the terminology) so you will have to pull on it and it will come off.
ATT : DAMMAGE MAY HAPPEN!!!

MikeTangas · #3 01-09-2003, 07:02 PM

When you say it make a noise like a loose bolt, do you mean a "clack" just about when the wheel tightens up? Clack, clack as you turn the wheel left/right?

If so, take a look under the hood. At this age it is likely that the three bushings in the coupler are shot, or likely missing. Look at the steering box and just on the steering wheel side of the box you'll see the coupler. Hold your hand there loosely while an assistant works the wheel (engine off) and see if you can feel the clack.

#4 01-09-2003, 07:52 PM

While you're down there, it might not be a bad time to check the bolts that hold the steering box to the frame....

jwduffey · #5 01-09-2003, 07:58 PM

Thanks 1967250s & Mike. I got the cover off and the bolt/nut is very tight, so that is not what I hear. Mike, I will check the bushings in the morning. That may be what I hear, but the noise is coming from the steering wheel area though. How difficult is it to replace the bushings if they are shot? I had new Bilstiens put on today and was hoping that would eliminate the noise. It helped some, but it is still there. The ride/handling is outstanding now. The previous owner had installed some very cheap shocks many years ago and they were shot. Thanks for your help.

MikeTangas · #6 01-10-2003, 12:35 AM

Can't say how difficult to replace just the bushings. I had mine replaced when I had the steering box rebuilt. I dodged a bullet on that one as I was going to drop the box and have it done as a bench job, but the price was right to bring in the whole car. Great for me as the PO had tried to quell the clack by overtightening the coupler bolts, stripping one. Added at least another hour or more to the job.

The clack does transmit right up through the column and sounds like it come from the steering wheel.