W210 lower steering boot

[dougjoy]

I just noticed the above boot has ripped. I've ordered the part due tomorrow, has anyone on the forum tried to replace one before.

I don't know whether to drop the steering rack or take out the steering wheel. Any info appreciated.

 

[brandwooddixon]

Is this boot at the end of the steering column or on one of the ends of the steering rack for the track rods?

 

[dougjoy]

It is the one at the end of the steering wheel

 

[dougjoy]

How to replace the lower steering boot

I replaced the lower steering boot on my W210 last week with no problems. I managed it from the top. All that is required is to take out the bottom dash cover which gives you access to the lower part of the steering column.

The lower swivel joints on the column are attached by one bolt,(13 mm nut and allen key bolt) which clamps the lower and upper parts together. Release the bolt and open the clamp slightly with a screw driver.

The two parts will with slight force come appart you can now pull out the old boot from the hole in the floor and over the knuckle joints and off. The new one will slip over the knuckle joints and can be pushed down into the hole in the floor. The boot has a rim that fits into the floor put this on first then push the rest of it over the lower seal on the steering shaft. This is done from the inside and then check it is on correctly by looking down the side of the engine.

The lower shaft to column can only go on one way, no splines ect. Before retightening the clamp bolt make sure it is as far up the shaft as it can go to eliminate up and down play on the steering wheel, a little knock on a knuckle joint while holding the steering wheel with your knee will do the trick.

Replace the lower dash cover and all is done.

In all it took me about an hour and the difference in internal noise is amazing, it is just like a new car.

I've attached the relevant drawing from the russian site. Any questions please ask.

I was told by my local stealer not to try it as a 4 wheel allignment was required after doing it. I have just been to Glasgow and back via Edinburgh twice 1300 + miles with no problems at all.

Hope this helps someone.