bgkast-
I read through your entire thread - that's where I came to the conclusion that it was the steering lock pin and not the tumbler. Here's the thing - when I pull the key out of the ignition - if I don't touch the wheel - it usually works first try when I go to start it back up. If I turn the wheel, I get blisters and a sore arm trying to get it started again. But when it works, it works no problem. That's why I think it's the steering lock and not the tumbler.
The tumbler seems easy enough to fix, but I'm not sure about the lock. If I just want to grind it down, do I have to pull the whole dash apart or can I access it from behind the instument cluster?
Or, does this problem sound obviously like it is the tumbler and not the lock? After all, I am an extreme novice.

By the way-
Did you buy a WVO kit or go part by part and put it together yourself?
Thanks!
Jim

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1983 MB 300SD Turbo Diesel