Steering Column Removal 1965 230SL

[Derm Cain]

I need to remove the steering column in my 1965 230 SL.  I read a detailed description how to do it two days ago and now can't seem to find it.  I was searching several sources, so i am not sure if I read the description in the Technical Manuel or somewhere else.

I have reviewed some info that says I need to remove the speedometer and tachometer to get at the U bracket nuts.  Is this the only way.  If I have to remove the S /T, I am thinking I may also remove the instrument gauges.  need to check my oil gauge.

Much appreciate if anyone has any information or advice on the Column, speedometer and tachometer removal. 

The purpose of removing the S Column is to install power steering on my car.  Jim Villers was very helpful and several others sent me some information last fall.  I have that thank you.

Any written or video procedure for th above would be greatly appreciated.

Happy Easter to all.  Stay Safe and practice Social Distancing.   

[Benz Dr.]

Do you have all of the power steering parts? You will need a 230SL power steering column - nothing else will work. And yes, you will need to remove those gauges to undo the clamp.

[Derm Cain]

Thank you.  No.  I was told to cut 1.75 out of the original shaft and reweld.  The only other part I need is the v belt.  Are there any special ways to remove the tack and speedom.  Are the cables attached by nut or clip?

[Jonny B]

Use the main search engine, the fourth item over from the left in the string of tables under your name. I used "gauge removal" without the quotes and got a single page of items.

I am figuring you already have the front seat out, if not, that does make the job a little easier. It is still a pain in the butt and the back.

The gauges are held in place with a u-shaped keeper. This has a knurled nut holding it to the gauge. With that off (watch to be sure the brown ground wire is there for re-install) the tach and speedo cables are held in place with a screwed on holder. You also will need to pull out the holders for the bulbs.

Be careful on the center cluster. The temperature gauge is a closed unit, filled with gas, kind of touchy. If you knick it, repair time. Also the oil gauge is a direct connect to the engine. Sometimes you may have enough play to just move the whole unit forward without removal.

[Benz Dr.]

Thank you.  No.  I was told to cut 1.75 out of the original shaft and reweld.  The only other part I need is the v belt.  Are there any special ways to remove the tack and speedom.  Are the cables attached by nut or clip?

The whole steering column is different. It's not just the shaft. Then you need a pump, steering box, bracket, and a pulley for your crank. Don't forget you need a pair of hoses, V-belt and a fluid canister. Replace the two bushings between the box and column while you have it apart.

Personally, I would only use a proper steering column.

[66andBlue]

You also need a different Pitman arm as we discussed here:
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=24649.msg176223#msg176223
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=26468.msg189443#msg189443

[Derm Cain]

Thank you.  Have everything except a new shaft, column and v belt.

[Derm Cain]

Thank you for the information