Check tie rod and center link for play - AP46.40-P-4650-01BA

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 42 other vehicles, including the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S500, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S320, and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CL600. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

If play is present, replace track rod ball joints or drag link

Testing possibilities:

Check track rod and drag link joints by pulling back and forth with force or
move steering wheel from left to right and vice versa approx. 100 mm while having a second mechanic feel the track rod and drag link joints.

Vehicle must be standing on wheels.

Fig 1: Checking Tie Rod & Center Link For Play (1 Of 2)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

On model 140 the left drag link joint and on model 202, 208, 170 the right drag link joint is a pin type joint.

This prevents the drag link from tipping.

Fig 2: Checking Tie Rod & Center Link For Play (2 Of 2)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.