W116 Steering Column Jacket Tube A1164601109 – Buyer's Guide
Anyone restoring a W116 or building up a donor car quickly runs into a problem in the steering area: the jacket tube of the steering column is a part that is practically no longer available new, and aftermarket parts for the first S-Class barely exist. At the same time it is a safety-relevant component that you should not buy on a hunch. This guide shows how to assess the condition of a used jacket tube, what to look for when buying, and which example with part number A1164601109 we currently have in stock.
How do you recognize wear or damage?
A jacket tube does not fail “electrically” like a control unit. After decades and possibly an accident, however, typical findings appear that decide between reuse and replacement:
| Finding | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Visible deformation, kink or compression of the tube | Indication of a previous accident or impact – do not straighten, replace |
| Cracked or broken-out mounting points | Steering column can no longer be mounted cleanly and firmly – replacement required |
| Rust or heavy corrosion at the mounts | Usually uncritical for surface rust; replace if material is eaten away in the mounting area |
| Scratches and slight signs of use | Normal for a genuine part of this age, functionally irrelevant |
| Ignition key does not turn or steering wheel lock does not release | Usually not a jacket tube issue but the ignition lock or steering lock – background in the guide Ignition lock: key turns through (W123/W126) |
Causes
The W116 was built in the 1970s, so many cars have around five decades behind them. The jacket tube houses the steering spindle and carries further attachments in the steering area. Accidents, improper disassembly during earlier repairs or long periods in damp garages leave their mark here. Especially on cars that were dismantled as parts donors, the jacket tube is often missing entirely or was damaged during removal. In addition, in restoration projects it is often unclear which parts come from which car – the part number is then the only reliable reference.
What to look for when buying
- Check the part number: Look for A1164601109 (also A 116 460 11 09 or 1164601109). Compare the number with your installed part or have it checked against your VIN.
- Match the model type: Our product data lists the W116 model types 116.020 to 116.120 (see list below). Other model series are not documented.
- Condition of the tube: Ask to see photos in which the tube is shown straight and without a kink or compression. A deformed jacket tube does not belong back in a car, as this is a safety-relevant component.
- Mounting points: Tabs, holes and mounts must be complete and free of cracks, otherwise the fit on the vehicle will not be right.
- Clarify the scope of delivery: Use the photos to check which attachments are included, and if in doubt ask before buying.
Solution
If your own jacket tube is deformed, damaged or missing, a genuine used part with the part number A1164601109 is the most sensible route. Our example is tested and works; according to the condition description it has small scratches and other signs of use. The price is 279,00 €. Since it is a one-off piece, it is worth a look at the entire W116 category, in case this part has already been sold.
Compatible vehicles
| Model series | Model / model code according to product data |
|---|---|
| W116 S-Class | Mercedes-Benz W116 |
| W116 model code | 116.020, 116.024, 116.025, 116.028, 116.029, 116.032, 116.033, 116.036, 116.120 |
Please compare the part number with your car before buying. You can find more restoration parts in our W116 category; you can read a buyer's guide to another W116 restoration part at W116 bumper left A1168800170.
FAQ
What is the part number of the steering column jacket tube on the W116?
In our product data the jacket tube is listed with the original part number A1164601109, also written as A 116 460 11 09 or 1164601109. Compare this number with the part in your vehicle before you order.
Which vehicles does the jacket tube A1164601109 fit?
According to the product data the part fits the Mercedes W116; the listed model types are 116.020, 116.024, 116.025, 116.028, 116.029, 116.032, 116.033, 116.036 and 116.120. Other model series are not documented – if in doubt, compare the part number on the installed part or check it via the VIN.
What condition is the offered jacket tube in?
The part is tested and works. It has small scratches and other signs of use, as is usual for a genuine part of this age.
How much does the W116 jacket tube cost at KFZTeile-Thot?
The jacket tube A1164601109 costs 279,00 €. It is a one-off piece; if it is sold, you can find more parts in our W116 category.
What is included in the scope of delivery?
The photos and the description in the listing are what counts. If you want to be sure whether certain attachments are included, ask before buying by phone or via the contact form.
KFZTeile-Thot is a specialist business for tested and refurbished Mercedes parts with its own test benches and over 1,000 positive eBay reviews. Not sure whether A1164601109 fits your W116? Call us at +49 179 8991069 (Mon–Fri 8 am–6 pm) or write to us via the contact form.