99 E430 - steering wheel removal
 

I'm changing the evaporator and have take most of the dash out, the steering wheel is still on. The steering wheel is not pointing straight ahead, to turn the wheel requires the ignition key be turned which requires the battery be connected (right?) but I'm reluctant to reconnect the battery as there is so much electronics disconnected (e.g. the fuses below the left dash vent). Here are my thoughts/questions/etc - any comments appreciated...

(i) does the steering wheel need to be pointed straight ahead before removing the steering wheel, I've read that some switch items can only be removed if the wheel is set straight ahead?

(ii) is there another way to disengage the steering lock - i.e. a way that doesn't involve using the battery and ignition? Maybe a pin or something I can get at as most of the dash is out?

(iii) my concerns about reconnecting the battery are firstly that the airbag might go off and secondly with so much stuff disconnected I wouldn't be surprised if the ignition wouldn't turn.

Any and all help appreciated,

Peter

Well I answered my own questions, there is a plate behind the steering wheel that has to be in the right position to allow access to some screws. I had to reconnect the battery to release the steering lock.

With the steering wheel issue resolved the dash is now off. I'm going to take a some video to help me remember where things go and charge on to the evaporator.

Peter