190E steering problem

[IamGeoff]

Got a problem with the steering on my G reg 190E 2ltr.
When you turn the wheel it doesn't want to come back to centre, you have to pull it back. It is not very heavy pressure needed to do it but it's not normal and quite annoying.
This is my second 190E so I know how it should feel.
Had a service last week at a non MB garage and the guy said he had looked at all the obvious and could see no problem.
Any advice appreciated.

Regards

Geoff

 

[jack-n-gill]

Couple of things it could be.
Steering damper rod could be bent, causing the piston rod to bind in the seals. Try disconnecting it and see if it makes any difference.
Also could be power steering valves/ram gummed up with fluid residue. Do you have the fluid changed as recommended? Look in the reservoir and if its opaque, get it changed and flushed out.

 

[IamGeoff]

Not long had the car and I'd thought I'd ask here before I started playing around.
Was driving it around today trying to figure out how it feels to drive and it seems to be stiff whichever way you turn the wheel initially then get lighter the more you move it and the stiff to start to turn back. It is difficult to describe really.
Is it worth replacing the steering pump altogether?
Thanx for replying.

 

[jack-n-gill]

Geoff
I'd still take a look at the steering damper first. It's situated under the car behind the sump.
When you turn the steering to full lock, does the steering pump hiss loudly. If it does then the pump is probably OK, if not try changing the fluid first. Buying a new pump should be near the end of your list of priorities as it's pretty expensive.

 

[IamGeoff]

Thanks for the info, will look at the weekend.

 

[Madanglian]

Have you checked the steering column?
They don't often go wrong but occasionally they stiffen up
Just a thought..........