Steering rack 'play'

[Messa]

Had my C250TD '99 96k in for a service/MOT today and they have advised me that although it isn't a fail, i have got play in the steering rack.

Has anyone any experience of this, and any clue to cost to get fixed?

Also, is it something i need to worry about or can i safely wait until next MOT ?

Thanks,

Neil

PS. I had actually noticed a slow speed 'clunk' on steering/going over bumps previously, if anyone else has those symptoms

 

[230K]

Hi

You do not have a steering rack, your car has a steering box.
If the MOT centre knows so little they are probably referring to the play that all MB models with a steering box have when they are not pointing straight ahead.

230K

 

[piestore]

steering rack

Hi Messa

have to agree with 230K you don't have a steering rack if its passed and it drives OK don't bother , slow speed clonk sounds like bottom ball joints

 

[jberks]

If I remember correctly, steering box can be adjusted to remove the play. Did it on an 280E (w123) and it made a massive difference. I believe its just a case of tightening a bolt, but I'll leave it to the experts to advise.

 

[Messa]

I have mistakenly said rack, but it does say box on my sheet sorry.I am still living in old money, but thanks for the advice fellas.



I would be intrested to hear more about the adjustment if anyone has more info (thanks jberks).

cheers,

Neil

 

[Mikesmerc]

Hi Neil.
wouldnt be an expert either but on top of the steering box there is a threaded bolt with a slot for a screwdriver which has a lock nut attached. It is adjusted by loosening the locknut and screwing down the bolt with a screw driver until play has been taken up, then locked by the nut. This usually takes up a bit of play but not always enough. Do not overtighten the the bolt, causes stiffness in steering and not good for the box either.
All of the above refers to a 123 series.
Regards
Mike

 

[Arnie]

Messa, actually, saying "rack" is new money...!

I think the said bolt is unscrewed to tighten up the play (??), but do it in the straight-ahead position, as this is where it is designed to have minimum play. If you tighten too much, you can jam the gears and beware that disturbing the mechanism to much can cause old oil-seels to leek, which becomes a particular problem with power-steering.