Steering rack tension adjustment

[RadiumRob]

Hello,

2014 W205 with a loud rattle from the front end when going over uneven surfaces.

Drop links have been replaced and two garages have checked over suspension and concluded nothing is worn.

A good Indy has diagnosed a steering rack fault. This has been confirmed by another garage.

Before I take the plunge and either replace the rack or flog the damned thing I wanted to check if anyone knows whether or not there is a load/tension adjustment nut in the W205 electric rack. I’ve seen reports of people tightening that slightly and eliminating noise.

Thank you.

 

[Uncle Benz]

There is a repair kit for this fault. A2054605202 if memory serves. Be careful not to overtighten it.

 

[RadiumRob]

There is a repair kit for this fault. A2054605202 if memory serves. Be careful not to overtighten it.

That’s interesting, thank you.

What does the kit do, and is it an easy diy job (I’ve no access to a ramp).

 

[Uncle Benz]

It’s the same issue with the Thysson Krupp electric rack in many BMW’s. They have redesigned the slipper that controls the free play. The contact pads on the piston are better material. The original material wears heavily and allows movement and the clonk you’ve experienced. Just tightening the cap nut will improve it, but only temporarily. The repair kit resolves the problem. It can be done with the rack in situ, but you’ll be better to get someone with experience to do it because too tight can be dangerous

 

[Uncle Benz]

You need a three pin tool to remove and refit the cap nut too

 

[RadiumRob]

Thanks for this info. Is the cap tool specific to Mercedes or would a BMW one do the job - I might be able to get one of those sooner.

 

[Uncle Benz]

Tool is same as BMW

 

[1BrokenMerc]

It’s the same issue with the Thysson Krupp electric rack in many BMW’s. They have redesigned the slipper that controls the free play. The contact pads on the piston are better material. The original material wears heavily and allows movement and the clonk you’ve experienced,,,

Hi Uncle Benz - I saw the above response and wondered if you could advise - I see a large price differential online for the repair kit with the cheaper taking several weeks to ship in to the UK from Latvia or Lithuania. So would you know if I could get a BMW thrust piece which is a suitable replacement for the 'redesigned' thrust piece for a 2016 W205 steering rack.

Thanks.