Need some advice on '85 300TD steering parts - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

benzing · #1 12-22-2010, 09:04 PM

Greetings. I just returned from a trip to the local MB dealership where I took my '85 300TD- 148k to get an alignment. I asked them to let me know up front if they felt the front end was "too loose" to align. They spent about 2 hours and then came to me and said that I needed to replace the center steering link. They told me the tech made a lot of adjustments, but was unable to "finish" because of the play in this particular part. They did not have the part available, and I could not leave the car- so they said they "did the best they could."

My question is IF I can replace the center link myself (the part is available online for about $50 and it does not appear to be super difficult to change), can I do so without terribly messing up the alignment? Dealer wants about $225.00 to replace this.

My thinking is that if I can remove and replace the part while leaving the wheels on the ground (assuming I can carefully replicate the length of the old part when I install the new part), one would think that the other alignment settings that the dealer did would remain intact.

I certainly could return to the dealer and pay them ANOTHER $110.00 for ANOTHER alignment, but obviously if I can get by without having to do that, I can live with an alignment that's "close." (This is my "airport car" and only goes about 4000 miles/yr).

I appreciate any feedback in advance. Thank you!

kerry · #2 12-22-2010, 09:56 PM

I'd give it a try and see what happens.

colincoon · #3 12-22-2010, 10:21 PM

Depending on how mechanically inclined you are this is a very easy task to complete. While you're at it I would replace the tie rods as well, also an easy task. Look around for threads here and DIY's to see for yourself.

MattBelliveau · #4 12-22-2010, 10:26 PM

What made you take it in for an alignment? Center link should have no affect on alignment "settings", as it is a fixed, non-adjustable part.

79Mercy · #5 12-22-2010, 10:42 PM

Since they couldn't do it correctly you should not have paid. Take the car back with a new center link installed and demand them to re-align it free of charge. You paid for something they didn't do.... Your toe angles are not correct if this part is indeed worn.

69shovlhed · #6 12-22-2010, 10:55 PM

yes, they should be willing to reset the toe in since it could not have been done properly if the drag link was worn out. the tech should have checked for play before he did the alignment. most shops do have a warranty period for alignments anyway.

benzing · #7 12-23-2010, 09:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MattBelliveau

What made you take it in for an alignment? Center link should have no affect on alignment "settings", as it is a fixed, non-adjustable part.

I was noticing excessive wear on the outside of the LF tire. I replaced the tires and thought I'd get a proper dealer alignment vs. what inde shops had done over the years.

I guess I may replace it and see what i get. Thanks and Merry Christmas.

vstech · #8 12-23-2010, 09:38 AM

if they aligned it with worn link ends, your new one will throw off those settings. there is nothing for you to adjust on the new part. it just goes in.
you should replace the steering dampner as well.

andrewjtx · #9 12-23-2010, 10:30 AM

And the idler arm bushings as well, if you're going to be in that area.

I am still shocked at how much improvement is made with just that set of bushings...

barry123400 · #10 12-23-2010, 01:44 PM

I concur with installing the worn part and running the car back in to check the toe. Agree to no additional charge because of the circmstances first if possible.

.There was no way that I can think of to get a good toe setting with the worn centre link anyways.

benzing · #11 12-27-2010, 11:43 AM

Wondering if I will need to use a "pickle fork" or other special tool to remove the center link. Anyone have experience with this? Thank you.

vstech · #12 12-27-2010, 11:45 AM

I tried a pickle fork, tried the dual hammer trick, best way for me was with a tie rod removal tool, it's a set of fingers that grab the knuckle , and a bolt pushes against the head of the bolt on the link.