Steering Straight at 11

[theshadyguy]

On my 1981 300SD, straight is not when the steering wheel is at 12, but when it is at 11. How can I correct this?

[tangofox007]

In theory, you could shorten your left tie rod and lenghten your right tie rod by exactly the same amount. In practice, it's difficult to do that and keep the toe correct. Getting a front end alignment would be the best option.

[sixto]

The steering wheel should be in the neutral position with the locking tool in the steering box. Alignment should be checked/corrected with the locking tool in the steering box. If the shop starts the alignment process by hooking the steering wheel to the brake pedal and/or they don't know about the steering box locking tool, thank them and take your car somewhere else.

Sixto
87 300D

[Phil]

If your alignment is right and the wheel is off center, like mine was, then the center emblem on the steering wheel can be pried out and then you will see a large allen head bolt that you can remove then pull the wheel off and reset it. This took a few tries to get where I wanted it but it is on center now. Make sure your alignment is right first. Also if you need to the center pad on the wheel can be pried off for better access.

[theshadyguy]

I had my allignment done 2 months or so ago when I replaced my tie rods. I had to go to Pep Boys because no one else was nearby and open. I think that I'm going to get a much better allignment someplace else in about a month, then. I also need all of the rubber in my front suspension replaced, so I might try to take it to Enrique.

Thanks for your help!

[winmutt]

Originally Posted by theshadyguy

I had my allignment done 2 months or so ago when I replaced my tie rods. I had to go to Pep Boys because no one else was nearby and open. I think that I'm going to get a much better allignment someplace else in about a month, then. I also need all of the rubber in my front suspension replaced, so I might try to take it to Enrique.

Thanks for your help!

Go back to pep boys and get your money back. They should never have done the alignment if the parts were not good. It's like going to the orthodontist for braces when all your teeth have rotted out.

[Phil]

Originally Posted by winmutt

Go back to pep boys and get your money back. They should never have done the alignment if the parts were not good. It's like going to the orthodontist for braces when all your teeth have rotted out.

I've got to say I love your analogy.

[redassag00]

I doubt Pep Boys has a Spreader bar either.