Recently picked up a new addition to my family, a 1991 300D 2.5L Turbo with 260xxx miles on it. Body and interior in great condition. Replaced motor mounts the first day after purchase (driver mount had not only collapsed but I believe actually exploded) and the difference new motor mounts is stunning.

Spoke with my mechanic and confirmed that it does NOT need new power steering pump, but the horrid squeal it makes when turning is caused by a "bushing??" being dried out way up in the steering (I say "up in the steering" because he let me put it up on the lift when he squirted some lubricant to stop that squeaking). The squeaking returned shortly thereafter (I knew it was only a short term fix).

This squealing/squeaking is not a bother at the moment as the front ball joint is completely shot. But as soon as I replace the ball joints and feel safe driving it further than a few miles, this noise is going to really cause a problem.

The steering turns as I believe it should although it is difficult to say exactly how it should because in addition to the ball joint, mechanic recommended while doing ball joint go ahead and replace tie rods as well. Also need to repack front wheel bearings and get a couple new front tires (PO had recently put 2 new ones on the rear). Mechanic told me what the steering bushing?? was, but since he gives me free advice during his working hours, and basically inspected my purchase for me free of charge I hate to constantly bother him.

Although I will be dropping the care off to him in a few days to replace the ball joint and will ask him about it again, I was hoping someone had a similar problem with their 300D or could give me a few suggestions on a DIY fix or a good place to start looking to resolve this annoying issue.


Thanks in advance and I will keep all posted once I get these issues all resolved.

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