Latest dumb question - Steering

[JamesL]

Mine has started creaking

One side (left) and when I am going slowly (maybe it's just then I hear it) and only when near centre (eg start of turn and end of turn)

It feels like something needs lubricant (can feel it in the steering wheel), and sounds like something needs lubricant

I am hoping it is something that needs lubrication  as opposed to something needing some shiny new piece of latex that can only be replaced by dismantling half the car and is terminal if not replaced before something starts creaking

Any web-based diagnostics?

[J. Huber]

Hey Tosh. How are your subframe mounts? My car had a creak on slow turns... and I had 41 year old, rather perished mounts...New ones cured the problem for me!

James
63 230SL

[JamesL]

No idea, I'll have a look in daylight

Interestingly, just went for a drive in the rain, and no noise on my return

[rmmchl]

where are the sub-frame mounts? What are they made of? Easy to change?

[rwmastel]

quote:Originally posted by rmmchl

where are the sub-frame mounts? What are they made of? Easy to change?

Here's a sedan article, but it pretty much applies to our roadsters.

http://www.mercedesshop.com/Wikka/W108Subframe

Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both  tops
1994 E420

[J. Huber]

In addition to that informative link, there is some info here in the technical articles. Mostly why you should replace them if they are shot.

I can tell you that the subframe kit runs about 100 bucks (US). Labor is probably 3-4 hrs? if a good mechanic does it. This is a good time to change shocks too -- since they come out anyway...

I just had my subframe mounts, 3 engine mounts, rear diff. mount and front & rear shocks changed last summer -- it's so worth the cost.

James
63 230SL

[George Davis]

The article posted below is a pretty decent guide to changing the sub-frame mounts, although there are some differences when doing a W 113.  Figure a day or so to do it yourself.  The mounts have metal inner and outer sections, with rubber between.  The rubber is what dies and allows the mounts to collapse.

Other things to change while you're at it are the front motor mounts and front brake flex lines, if they need it.

George Davis
'69 280 SL Euro manual