Steering problem
My G is in dock at the mo with an assortment of low level issues. Techman has looked at the steering which was getting pretty hairy. He has eliminated everything bar the box wherein he firmly believes lies the problem.
Question is, once inside and the problem is establish, how repairable are these boxes, and if not what does a new one cost. Alternatively, is it likely I can pick up a recon/used box.
Thanks folks.
I am a little concerned with a steering box as a prognosis. Generally speaking these are as good as they can be.
What is your problem - do tell. I wish, I could invite you down to Lougborough but I have no facilities or jack to investigate for you.
New boxes are over £2500, These boxes are reconditionable but subject to parts availability. My last investigation into reconditioned boxes showed these are no longer possible due to the boxes adjuster no longer being available. I suppose, the part can be machined but that is taking the rebuild to another level.
Second hand boxes are available but at what condition is it likely to be? Second hand don't come cheap either approximatley, €900 to €1500.
Phone me, my number is in the magazine or I will PM this to you.
Thanks Rakesh, the box hasn't yet been opened so I know no more than what I've posted. I'm very confident in my Techman, if he says it's the box, then it's the box.
Probably best if I give you a call once the box is opened and we have a definite diagnosis. I've been searching around and have found a recon place, not cheap, but we'll see in a week or so.
Hi Ian
Hope you're in good health
What's the fault with the vehicle, what does your man think is wrong with the box?
I assume he has carried out simple checks, oil level, oil change, filter change etc
I understand free play can be adjusted, but not a straight forward job and more damage can be done if not careful.
They are a reasonably simple box with few major working parts and the LS2 box is a tried and tested design that has been around since to early 70's at least, it is used on vehicles in the MB range that are considerably bigger and heavier. This is not to say they don't go wrong, just that it is not common.
What mileage is on your 300GE now?
All the best...
Gav
In the pink.....If he says it's the box then box it is....he's checked everything else....I'll keep you posted.
Mileage is around 85K so just run in.
Dont want to sound patronizing but have you checked tyre pressures, 5 psi under can make steering bad
I don't think tyre pressures would account for a quarter turn free play in each direction. As I said, the Techman has thoroughly checked all possibilities and is left with the box being the only possible option. He is a Mercedes trained tech, very experienced, and works with one of the most experienced MB outfits around. He also has his own G. So no, I don't think it's the tyre pressures.
These are ls2 boxes used in up to 7 tonne commercial vehicles in various castings and other than oill seal wear after 500,000 miles and running without oil do not give trouble
Damage is ivvairably self inflicted by even touching the factory set adjusters trying to take out the free play which is inherrent in the design
Westernservices in Bristol used to reseal them for modest money
I have cured difficult steering G 'S BY FITTING AFTERMARKET DISCO2 DAMPERS ,£50 FROM EBAY ,LENGHTHEN MTG BY 20MM
1/4 turn that is some free play, up to 3 inches allowed at MOT, Presume mechanic been through drag link etc, no knocks etc?
1/4 turn that is some free play, up to 3 inches allowed at MOT, Presume mechanic been through drag link etc, no knocks etc?
See post No 7.
Any news on this? Anything further been done? Can offer some input if not.
Update:
Having established that it was not in fact the steering box. Techman dismantled the whole steering system and re-assembled it. Result: the steering is the best it's ever been. Much lighter, it used to be like riding a cart horse, and that was when it was working!
He told me what the exact problem was, but numptie me can't remember, too pleased with the result to concentrate on the cause. It makes driving so much easier, especially for Mrs IanA2 who's a real G fan. I'll ask him next week and report back.
Also pretty much decided to go Turbo.
Update:
Having established that it was not in fact the steering box. Techman dismantled the whole steering system and re-assembled it. Result: the steering is the best it's ever been. Much lighter, it used to be like riding a cart horse, and that was when it was working!
He told me what the exact problem was, but numptie me can't remember, too pleased with the result to concentrate on the cause. It makes driving so much easier, especially for Mrs IanA2 who's a real G fan. I'll ask him next week and report back.
Also pretty much decided to go Turbo.
See post Number 7. :-)
Update:
Having established that it was not in fact the steering box. Techman dismantled the whole steering system and re-assembled it. Result: the steering is the best it's ever been. Much lighter, it used to be like riding a cart horse, and that was when it was working!
He told me what the exact problem was, but numptie me can't remember, too pleased with the result to concentrate on the cause. It makes driving so much easier, especially for Mrs IanA2 who's a real G fan. I'll ask him next week and report back.
Also pretty much decided to go Turbo.
See post Number 7. :-)
I did, it was nothing whatsoever to do with tyre pressures.
I've got my old box from my 100,000 (correct miles) and I believe that I bought my new one for £3200 unnecessarily
Welcome to the world of G addiction Tone! I warned you. Cars looking good.
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I should have added that it's a '91 463. Also, I've just seen the price of a new box