Installation of a Power Steering

[n/a]

I own a 250SL from 1967, I would like to know if it is possible to install a power steering in my car, has anybody done it before and do you have any list of materials to buy.
thanks Danny Ventura

[jeffc280sl]

Hi Danny,

I know you will need a power steering pump which is pully driven.  You will also need a new steering gear box.  The new box will take in high pressure power steering fluid to assist with the steering before returning the fluid back to the pump.  I have rebuilt a power steering gearbox and suspect a switch over can be done without too much trouble.  Would like to hear what others have to say.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[hauser]

You can get the entire kit from Gernold.  Don't know what the cost would be.  www.sltechw113.com

1969 280sl 5 spd        1999 ML320          Gainesville,Fl.

[Ben]

Hi
  I am actually in the middle of this at the moment. My car is RHD Euro and it took time to scource the neccesary parts for the job as the box is different.

You need the pump c/w mounting bracket and pulley, the driver pulley, belt,the metal/rubber pipes, the resevoir, the steering box and the lower portion of the steering column shaft.

Its this later part that can cause difficulties as I believe the power steered car has a longer shaft to mate with the coupling before going into the steering box on the outside of the car. I havent got this far yet.I'm not sure if you can buy this part seperately so a parts donor car may be of some use, just make sure it hasn't been crashed or these parts may be damaged.

I have stripped,cleaned and painted the pump and pulleys and replaced the seals. I will do the resevoir next and then overhaul the steering box before I attempt the installation.

I plan to take some photos too along the way !

Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.

[hughet]

When you get it all together be sure to note that steering specs call for more castor. Cars that were shipped with power steering had a flat spring (112 331 00 12) that is 5 mm shorter (at 243 mm) than cars with "armstrong" steering (111 331 11 12 at 248mm) to facilitate the adjustment.
In my case, I was able to adjust it without the change but I am at the end of my range.
Handling is improved with less turns lock to lock, quicker wheel return (from the added castor) and ease of turning the car at low speed. You will love it.

[Ben]

Thanks for the info Hughet, I had intended to do a full checkout of the alignment but I didn't know about the castor !

Have you done this swop over and can you verify what you did regarding the steering column ?

Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.

[hughet]

I did it 15 years ago primarily because my manual box was totally worn out and I could not get a replacement. All of the parts were found in the boneyard at Buds by David Latham. The "kit" consisted of a pulley, steering pump, reservoir, bracket, hoses, steering box and a steering column.
The column for power steering cars has a shorter shaft than manual ones because the box is a tighter fit so you will have to get a steering column. A new coupling is a good idea while you are in there.
The switchover will make your 40 year old car drive like a modern car.