Hello, can anyone help me please. I have purchased my very first Mercedes Benz, at last!!! Im 23 and always wanted a Merc! In April I bought a 1977 230 Mercedes 123 series saloon which is now my pride and joy, however, I have come accross a little problem.

I am leaving it in to get the tracking and wheels balanced, however, the mechanic advised me that there is a problem with the track rods. They are slightly curved/bent in an snake like "s" shape. I require new track rods to enable the tracking system be adjusted.

While endlessly searching the net, and motor shops, the only track rods I am locating are flush straight ones.

Has anyone encountered such a instance? Did the earlier models differ or is this an american/european variation.

Thanks for your help.

Darren

darclinton@oceanfree.net

they should be exactly the same euro or us spec.

they should also be available from salvage. i cant imagine how they would BOTH be bent. he didnt bend them himself did he? they are not a wear item. they do have bushings that go bad though. THOSE are a wear item.

i might, if i have any doubts, get a second opinion.

writing in from the misty isles?

tom w

__________________
[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

I have a Mercedes repair manual published for South Africa by Motorbooks. It covers the gas W123 models, including some that weren't availible in the US. The steering chapter illustrations show all the steering tie rods/track rods being straight. Is there a possibility someone could have bent yours in an accident, or by jacking or towing the car improperly? From point to point, a straight part should work. Usually, the only reason an 'S' shaped one would be needed would be to clear some obstruction. Will the straight replacement absolutely not work without that 'S' bend?

Happy Motoring, Mark

__________________
DrDKW

It sounds like your mechanic is telling you they need replacement BECAUSE they are bent. You need to replace those, unless you want your handling to be quite "Quirky"! If your tie rods are bent they will not be properly adjustable.

__________________
Current:
2021 Charger Scat Pack Widebody "Sinabee"
2018 Durango R/T

Previous:
1972 280SE 4.5
2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited "Hefe", 1992 Jeep Cherokee Laredo "Jeepy", 2006 Charger R/T "Hemi"
1999 Chrysler 300M - RIP @ 221k