Removing 56SL steering wheel

[wnovinger]

I want to pull the instrument cluster on my '87 560SL; doing so requires removing the steering wheel. The service manual CD I have does not cover this model. I asked my local service shop how to remove the wheel and was advised that I shouldn't tackle the job, as the airbag in the center of the steering wheel could accidently deploy unless I disarm the SRS.

Has anyone successfully removed and replaced the steering wheel on the '87 560SL? Any tips/techniques/gotchas I should be aware of?

TIA,
Walt Novinger

[cbdo]

A) No, I haven't tried removing the wheel, due to:
B) Yes, there is a "gotcha" in the form of the airbag. Accidentally setting the thing off is downright dangerous, as well as surprisingly easy. In addition, it's expensive to replace. I've seen few on the BBs who've tried it other than professionals.
Removing the wheel on the earlier cars is no big deal, but I'd turn it over to a pro on my 560SL.

[wnovinger]

Thanks for the comments, Craig. I have decided to wait until the next visit to the wrenches and have them clean the lenses. An airbag in the face doesn't sound like fun.

Walt

[dmorrison]

I have done it. It can be done but you must be aware of the dangers, just like anything we do on the cars.

It can be done but you must be careful about electrostatic shock. Any stray electrostatic spark could fire the airbag.
To disconnect the airbag contacts. on the left side of the steering wheel, in the front of the assembly. You will see a small hole for an allen wrench that you place in the hole and unscrew the contacts to the airbag. I don't remember the size of the allen wrench.
Then you remove the airbag cover, In the back of the steering wheel you will see the lip that holds the cover on the steering wheel. The cover is sort of like a big u shape with lips that wrap around the assembly. Pull the lips clear and the cover will come towards the driver as you are seated in the car.
After the cover is off you will see the airbag. This is when you need to ensure no static charge, Just like when your working on your computer. You can wrap a bare wire around your arm or such to ground any electricl charge. Remove the airbag and place it BAG SIDE UP on the floor in an area that no one will mess with. You want the bag side up in case it blows. The force of the explosion will push the metal case towards the floor and not be projected upward where it could kill someone. Remember the bag inflates at 200MPH. Once its out of the way you will see the electrics for the horn and the large center nut. Before removing the wheel from the shaft, mark it with a knife or blade or scratch all so you know were the splines attach once you reassemble the wheel. Once the wheel is removed the instrument panel can be removed. Once you have the instrument cluster out replace ALL the bulbs so you don't have to do it again later.
When reinstalling the airbag again be aware of the static charge potential and ground yourself. Install the cover and use the allen wrench to connect the SRS contacts to the airbag.

Dave

[maheath]

I've also done this on my 560SL and your instructions don't seem to match my car. To remove the airbag, first disconnect the battery. There are two torx screws (T25?) on the back side of the steering wheel that holds the airbag on. They are hidden in the base of the two holes that you'll see, one on either side of the steering wheel. Remove these two screws and lift the airbag off the steering wheel. There is still a wire connecting the airbag to the steering column. Pull this wire straight out. The airbag should now be free and clear.

There's not a whole lot of room to use a screwdriver-type torx. I used a torx socket set.

[Chemanic]

the red connector was located up under the driver's side on the 86 560sl.

[Chemanic]

here's a view of guts of the steering wheel. note horn contacts, airbag connector, and reference steering wheel to shaft with a marker.10mm allen key opens retaining nut but be prepared to uue some muscle or good size breaker bar, use thread lock on reassembly