Hope you solve this issue. You've gotten some good advice.

A general info for all recirculating ball owners out there (and that pretty much means most Benz's before 1998 or so) this steering mechanism can put a heck of a lot of pressure on the steering locking mechanism. Especially on the W124 and W201. Always try and turn the wheel as close to its locking position prior to turning of the engine. If you don't you'll have to turn the steering around and lock it putting pressure on the lock when you release it.