Steering box oil level

[W14]

I was suddenly confronted with a "mystery leak" - a puddle of oil on the ground, right underneath the steering box.  I remember last year checking the oil level, and "topping it up", and now I'm wondering if I over-filled it.  I'm not sure why it suddenly decided to drain out now, as it was fine last summer.

1. I remember reading that the level is supposed to be 1.5 inches "below the filler neck" - does that mean 1.5" below the top surface, OR below the bottom of the threads?  The threads are about .5" deep.

2. It still shows a level of 1" below the top surface, so it is over-filled either way.  Does this mean a seal has to be replaced, or is it just a matter of reducing the oil level?

Thanks,

Will W14
1965 230SL 4spd
Victoria,BC

[Benz Dr.]

Is this power steering or manual? The pitman arm seal tends to leak after years of use and is the usual place they leak.

Dan

Daniel G Caron

[W14]

Hi Dan,

This is for manual steering.  Do you think the over-fill would have caused the seal to leak?
Any insight re: the proper fill level?
Thanks,

Will W14
1965 230SL 4spd
Victoria,BC