Like the title says......

My 83 300D with 240K on it has some decent play in the steering. Not too bad, but more than I would like. Virtually all of the front end parts have been either replaced by me or the PO (with documented repair receipts) in the last 10K.

So, can a coupler cause play/looseness in the steering? Aside from cracks, how can t he coupler fail.

Just trying to get all the info I can before I pony up the time and money to replace the coupler.

Thanks,

Glenn

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2012 Mercedes ML350 Bluetec 102K (hers)
2005 Corvette 55K (fun car)
2002 VW Jetta TDI 238K (mine)
1998 Volvo S70 T5 Turbo 211K (kids)
1994 Ford F150 4WD 246K (firewood hauler)
1983 Mercedes 300D 384K (diesel commuter)

Rubber portion deteriorates. Grab the lower portion of the coupler with vice grips. Have someone turn the steering wheel back and forth a little with you looking for play in the coupler . Also read up on how bad bushings in the steering tube may affect the results as well.

I could see the play in the bushings on my 116 and could also feel the slop when putting my hand on the coupler and having someone turn the steering wheel. The obvious play was on the bottom side of the coupler.

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1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13