knuckle wipe seals 460 30d
I bought metal split rings and plastic seals for the steering knuckles on my 1987 30d 460 from merc
the metal rings are the correct diameter but the plastic (wipe) seals are smaller diameter and have approx 30mm gap when placed over the metal split ring the part nos. are A4603310180 metal split ring and A4603310380 plastic (wipe seal) gasket is there abigger diameter seal merc are not much help and insist the part is correct but it is smaller diameter than the old one
If I understand you correctly, you are talking of the outter ring on the swivels and the plastic seal which sit under it. The split seal you have does come with a gap and the gap is fitted facing the top at a 12;00 O'Clock position. These are meant as replacement when not splitting the whole hub. I do not have the number but a complete seal should be available and it is a smaller fit which when tightening the ring plate squeezes on eventually. This seal is used when splitting the hub for bearing replacements.
If you have the full seal and can slide over the hub unassembled then use that otherwise you will need to use the split seal.
Just make sure the gap is on the top, the gap will be covered by the plate and pack the gap with grease as an additional seal although this is not required.
To my mind the gring often occurs when the steering columb fouls with the chassis due to a bent columb. It usualy catches at the bottom part closer to the steering box. Have an assistant turn the steerin lock to lock whilst observing the the columb shaft. If this is bent you will seee it clearly. The bend can be straighten by applying an opposing force at the bend but be careful. The columb is designed to collapse in an event of a head on collission and too much force will put it out of joint or crack it.
Alternatively take off the vehicle and align out side.
Check the Universal joints on the steering columb, there are two on the lower columb and I think one on the top shaft to be found in the cab close to the bulk head; these sometimes are in need of lubricating or rarely replacement.
Finally if the grinding is at the steering wheel its self then there could be some dirt at the horn ring. If you have an air bag on the steering wheel leave this for the experts, it is possible for you to tackle this but it requires careful instruction to be given and at present I don't have much access time at the broadband my time will soon run out.
Need feed back now to learn if I have trageted the problem correctly.
Re , heavy 463 steering,
Could be universal joints on steering column, but what happens when you remove the rod, with car jacked up ? Could be swivel bearing s completely shot? Normally found steering really pleasant weight
Hi Piston
Thanks for your reply I have attached photos for clarity,It just seems the gap is excessive, I also got one of the seals without a split should i try to use this.
Tlast he photo shows the old seal and the replacement sideby side.
Again thanks for your help