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  #1  
Old 06-06-2005, 08:32 AM
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benzbonz
 
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
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My Key wouldn't turn - FIX

I've read here before about ignition keys not being able to be turned to start the car. Jiggle and keep trying until you can finally get the key to budge and start the car.

Well, my 300SD - 1985 started doing this. Always at the most inconvient times. I figured out that the steering wheel lock mechanism caused the binding. Like when the lock was pressed in, the key would turn freely, but sometimes when the steering wheel lock was engaged, the key would stick.

Easy fix, I hammered the end where the steering wheel lock engages the steering wheel, and flattened it out so that the steering wheel lock never engages. By keeping the locking mechanism from engaging, my key always turns.

This was a last resort, as I had tried cleaning and oiling the mechanism, but nothing short of taking it apart would work. And I really didn't want to get into the lock mechanism.



Marty

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  #2  
Old 06-06-2005, 09:35 AM
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Join Date: May 2002
Location: Blue Point, NY
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I believe the issue with the lock mechanism is the fact that the pins wear out and you can't rotate the key, unless you get lucky.

If you have a key that functions properly in the lock and is simply restricted by the steering lock, then the procedure outlined above will work. However, you don't need to go through all that effort. If you simply unload the steering lock by adding a little tension to the wheel, the key will turn. In fact, I'll bet that this is standard procedure for most of us, without thinking about it.

If you get to the point where the key won't turn due to the wear in the pins, then the cylinder needs to be changed before you get to the point where you can't turn it, no matter how much fiddling that you do.
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  #3  
Old 06-06-2005, 09:48 AM
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Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Kennesaw, GA
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You got it Brian. I used to struggle to start it when I first got mine. Now even with the wheel locked I subconciously move the steering wheel. I do think the mechanism has freed up some with use. I remember for a while I would not lock the steering wheel just so I could start it easily.
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  #4  
Old 06-06-2005, 01:00 PM
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Dieseldiehard
 
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Bay Area No Calif.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Brian Carlton
If you get to the point where the key won't turn due to the wear in the pins, then the cylinder needs to be changed before you get to the point where you can't turn it, no matter how much fiddling that you do.
I just replaced the cylinder in my '83 300D, before I got to the point of no return. Everytime I look at the brass filings in the recess where the lock is I fear that the pins are nearly gone, after all, at nearly 250K miles it has had a lotta use!
Gave $70 to the dealer for peace of mind.
Man what a difference! Plus a new key! it's nice to have to NOT worry any more
Now I have to worry about the '71 220, and the '79 300TD and the other cars
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Old 06-12-2005, 08:53 PM
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My brother's 190D 2.2 is doing the same thing. Are you saying that it needs a key cylinder?

Thanks
David
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  #6  
Old 06-12-2005, 10:28 PM
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I believe they are suggesting to make sure the load of the steering lock is removed by rotation of the steering wheel a little. If problem is still there then change the lock cylinder out while it is still working. Lubrication with graphite sometimes restores reasonable operation. Actually all locks should be lubricated about once a year anyways. I believe if it jams up in the on position it becomes a much greater effort to change the lock assembley.. They come on ebay for 24.95 sometimes new. But of course if you want the same key code as your door it's off to the dealer. Standard wear item on all cars at some point if the car lasts long enough.

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