Pictorial on how to replace your ignition lock with a stuck or broken key.
 

I just finished up my pictorial on how to replace your ignition lock with a stuck or broken key.

Here is the link:

http://dieselgiant.com/mercedes_diesel_maintenance_tips1%20page%202.htm

Enjoy!

Can't find the thread
 

I still am having serious problems with my ignition lock cylinder and I think the one from my car is making trouble and the one in the parts car is even worse. I saw in the last day or two a thread and the post by the member said he had a handful of top quality cylinders for I believe $49.00 plus shipping. And I have been looking for that thread all evening and I just can't find it. I am sure electrons do take a vacation once in a while. So if you know who that member is, or if you find that thread, please let me know. There is one on sale right now on ebay at 24.95 or buy it now for $30.00, but the member said in that thread that his cylinders were of much better quality - and I think quality in a switch is what I am looking for. Thankyou!

Here is the link

http://dieselgiant.com/mercedes_diesel_maintenance_tips1%20page%202.htm

these pictorials are always top quality... thanks

I knew I saw it, didn't remember the price
 

Thanks Diesel Giant; I sent you an Email to order one of those fine Mercedes switches. Thankyou

Here's how to do it without grinding:

BTW: There was no way I was going to try and cut though the black protective ring.

So what to do:

1) remove lower dash trim on steering wheel side to reveal the ignition lock.;
2) remove the steering wheel and airbag if any (remember to disconnect both the battery and the "red" airbag connector under the passenger carpet;
3) remove the bolts that hold the steering column to the dash;
4) loosen the single allen bolt that clamps the ignition lock assembly to the steering column;
5) disconnect the anti-shifting cable (if any);
6) disconnect rear switch connector;
6) rotate the ignition lock assembly so you can see the hardened pin;

Now you have TWO options:
1 ) if you have a pin-point torch, heat ONLY the pin until it is "red-hot" and let it cool (do not quench it cool, you want to remove the "hardening");
now hit the pin hard with a hammer and punch and remove the ignition lock assembly.

OR

2) with a forged punch and hammer hit the area AROUND the pin until the pin is free to depress/move, and you'll be able to remove the ignition lock (similar to smashing the door and door-frame instead of the deadbolt).

I tried option #1, but with a butane torch, I couldn't get the pin hot-enough;

Option #2 worked like a charm!

BTW: the new W124 ignition locks do NOT have their threads tapped for the switch assembly, so you MUST tap them yourself (the dealer said to use self-tapping screws, but not for me!). Stuff a rag into the underside of the ignition lock assembly when tapping and use a little cutting oil to keep the debris from falling into the assembly.

Good luck,

:-) neil
1988 E36T AMG
1993 500E

Thanks for the update! :D

Srw
 

Do you have any tips on taking a locking switch our of a 1966 250S. I can't even get my hand in behind the dash to begin taking it out. What all do I have to take a part before I can get to the switch. The dash is a ***** to get to. I am at my wits end!!!!

I am sorry I do not have any tips for you.:(

Diesel Giant you are a God amongst men.
 

After my '88 260E had been sitting for 4 months in the driveway (i was quoted $700 to repair) I saw your pictorial on how to remove a jammed lock assy. A couple hours later she was started and moving! :D :D :D :D :D I cannot even express how happy I am!!! Thank you so much for taking the time to put this on the internet for everyone!!!

No offense to Diesel Giant, but I think that should be a little "g". :angel: :D

Any and all knowledge I have comes from Jesus. He just lets me have a little to share with you all.

I take no credit at all, let him have all the credit.:)

If your lock is a 300E w124 or of the like (make sure it is) then you'll want to see this:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/200554-1987-300e-key-stuck-ignition-post1640662.html#post1640662

Just did it. Detail
 

Somewhere in these many lists it gave an angle to put on the end of the paperclip. Worked a charm. Practice with the replacement first, then do it. It took me 3 mins.

how to remove steering lock permanently?
 

I have the typical w123 steering lock problem on my 1979 300D where my key won't turn in the tumbler and the steering lock is engaged. It happens about 1 in 20 starts but I'm always able to jiggle it free (after 10 min.) and finally start the car. I replaced the tumbler with a genuine MB tumbler/key 6 mo. ago and the problem still occurs. It must be the steering lock assembly and NOT the tumbler.

Assuming I can turn my key to the on position...

Can I simply remove the sticky steering lock pin/rod without "grinding" anything to avoid buying a new steering lock assembly?

Do I need to drop my steering column to do any of this repair?

Thanks!