Replacing the steering wheel on a classic Mercedes-Benz Ponton might seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s a manageable task for any dedicated car enthusiast. This guide, inspired by experiences shared by fellow Ponton owners, focuses on safely and effectively removing your Ponton steering wheel, emphasizing the use of a specialized puller tool.
To undertake this task, a steering wheel puller is essential. This tool is specifically designed to apply even pressure and safely detach the wheel from the steering column without causing damage. As one Ponton owner, David VanDuzer, experienced while working on his 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220S Ponton coupe, a puller is not just helpful; it’s crucial for a smooth removal process.
Tools You’ll Need
- Steering Wheel Puller: This is the most critical tool. It distributes force evenly to pull the steering wheel off the column.
- Wrench: To tighten the puller and apply the necessary pressure.
- Strap Wrench (Optional): Helpful for holding the puller steady, especially on early puller designs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Steering Wheel Removal
The process, while straightforward, requires patience and care. Here’s how to remove your Mercedes-Benz Ponton steering wheel:
1. Accessing the Horn Ring and Trademark Plate
The first step involves gaining access to the steering wheel nut by removing the horn ring and trademark plate. Many Ponton owners, even those with years of experience, are often unaware of the correct method to remove this trademark plate. Referencing workshop manuals, specifically “Job 46-2,” reveals the secret to easily detaching this component without damage.
2. Utilizing the Steering Wheel Puller
With the center plate removed, you can now attach the steering wheel puller. The puller is designed to grip the steering wheel securely while a central screw pushes against the steering column. As you tighten the puller, it applies even pressure, gradually releasing the steering wheel from its tapered shaft.
3. Dealing with Resistance
Sometimes, the steering wheel can be quite stubborn. As David VanDuzer noted, removing his steering wheel required “many hammer blows on the puller as I incrementally tightened it before the wheel actually came free.” This isn’t always necessary, but be prepared to apply firm, steady pressure.
Jon Miller, another Ponton enthusiast, highlighted a challenge with some puller designs: the large cylinder part can be slick and rotate, preventing effective pulling. His solution was to use a strap wrench to hold the cylinder in place while tightening the puller nuts. Ron Dwyer, encountering a particularly tight steering wheel, successfully used a combination of torque and patience, emphasizing that “hammering works, but it is not always effective on a morse taper.”
Conclusion
Removing your Mercedes-Benz Ponton steering wheel is achievable with the correct approach and, most importantly, the right tool – a steering wheel puller. Patience, steady pressure, and understanding the nuances of your classic car will ensure a successful removal, allowing you to proceed with your restoration or repair project. Remember to consult your Mercedes-Benz service manual for detailed instructions specific to your model.
