What (if anything) between the steering wheel, along the steering column to the steering box is prone to wear? or is there anyway to effectively adjust the steering box?

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RIP: 80 300SD
RIP: 79 450SEL
2002 E430 4matic (212,000km)
2002 ML500 'sport'

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I doubt you have any slop between the steering wheel and the box, it's more likely to be be between the box and the wheels. Assuming everything else is tight, the steering box can be adjusted (it was effective on my cars). Loosen the lock nut on the adjuster and turn it CCW until you feel resistance, then turn it back CW about 1/4 turn. If you make it too tight, the steering may bind or not return to center (not good), so don't over-do it.

Prolly best to check your front end first. Tie rods are an easy fix if they're sloppy. If you tighten your steering box when it is the front end that actually needs replacing, you will find that the steering wheel won't return to center very well anymore as you fix up your front end.

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1985 CA 300D Turbo , 213K mi

Yeah rebuild the front suspension first. Everything, all the rubber mounts and bushing etc., then you will be adjusting the box for the box and not a symptom of something else. There are steering couplers located in the steering column, I haven't replaced mine yet but those are the last things to be done. Tweak the box as mentioned a 1/4 turn each time. Drive awhile and see how it feels it doesn't take much and as mentioned if you over tighten it will not work right.

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If it ain't broke take it apart and find out why.

1983 300SD, 4 speed
1994 C280
1987 300TD wagon
1996 HD Road King

Ride in Peace Eric Peterson, Harley of Macon