PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

matsalleh76 · #16 06-25-2010, 01:43 AM

Irregardless of comments on arm strength this query needs serious technical investigation.

There are many of us that feel that Merc steering is a bit too heavy and, to be honest, Merc steering feedback is not the greatest either.

We wanted to lighten the steering on our 2.3-16 and assuming that a PS pump pressure increase would lighten it up we replaced the factory 95bar pump with a new 110bar PS pump. Result: zero. No effect.

We have researched the data/literature we can find and can not locate anything on what controls (for lack of a better word) steering "boost."

Based on our experience with the 110bar pump we assume that:
1) there is a pressure limiting valve somewhere in the system that controls boost;
2) the PS pump rating is the maximum pressure the pump will deliver to the system;
3)if the system only requires say, 80bar to develop its valved boost then any increase in PS pump pressure is bypassed back to the reservior.

If these assumptions are correct the boost/pressure control valving must be in the steering box.

Now, where are the valves? How to access them? And finally, how adjust system working pressure (with shims or spring changes) to utilize more pump pressure to increase boost?

Yes, any proposed increase in system pressure will load up the steering box seals but I am willing to give it a try. I am retired and have the time and facilities to do the job.....and, if need be, un-do it if it doesn't work right.

Serious technical comments, references/links to data sources/diagrams will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks & regards,
bobf