creaky steering on 230e

[merc-lover]

hi there, my 230e has developed a creaking noise from the steering. works fine & power steering fluid level ok. do i need a new steering damper or could it be something else????????? any replies much appreciated, thanks

 

[TimN]

There is a slave arm on the opposite side of the steering to the steering box. This arm mirrors the operation of the Pitman arm which is actually attached to the steering box. The contact surfaces in the slave arm can become dry and need lubricating. I only ever had to do this on a 114 series before which was a simple nut and bolt arrangement.

To test, jack the car and support it under the chasis rails using timber packers to protect your sealant. Ask a friend to rotate the steering wheel backwards and forwards. Then have a look under to locate the noise.

A steering dampner cost £19 plus vat from eurocarparts of gfs. If it has never been changed it is a simple job to do and will vastly improve the steering quality of your car.

 

[Ian McB]

I had a similar noise on my 200TE. Turned out to be the nearside rubber top shock mount.I didn't realise how wooly the steering was until I replaced it.Now it's quiet and steers smoothly. Worth checking as I assumed it was one of the lower steering joints.
A new top shock mount is £15+vat from GS+F. Although I hadn't fitted one before, it took less than 30 mins. Recommend using a small bottle jack to support the suspension arm whilst undoing the bolts at the top as the spring contains a fair bit of compressed energy.Then slowly jack the car higher till the top mount clears the body.

Hope this helps

Ian