I've taken out many steering wheels. The only time I had a problem was if someone other than the factory tightened it. You can tell by the paint mark or even by examening the allen insert, for damages.
Anyway, I think that some mechanics, not Mercedes, get scared of the wheel coming off and as a result overtighten it.

I do agree with you on the loctite, but with the proper tools you shouldn't have any problems removing it.
I usually use a 1/2" drive socket type allen with a long handle.





[Edited by vinamg on 01-09-2001 at 10:45 AM]