Yeah, the big pad in the center, the collapsable "bowl" underneath, and the short steering column connected to the steering box just in front of your feet makes a big difference. If you have a belt on, you will hit it square on, smashing the bowl down about six inches while you only touch the pad and the rim (which won't break off the column since it bolts onto the bowl). I cannot imagine an impact that would not kill you outright from brain stem detachement or aortal tears that would push the steering box up.
The old Corvair had the steering box right behind the front bumper (less than six inches in) and a long, straight steering column of solid steel rod. Classic death was a minor rear-ender that broke the driver's neck when the steering wheel shot out of the dash and hooked the driver under the chin. Plain stupid if you ask me, why would you ever put the steering box up there? GM did it on everything I know of from the early 50's at least to the late 70's. I'm sure you, like I, was very glad to be driving a Benz when you spotted the idiot about to hit you! Peter _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
