Turn Signal Stalk Won't Stick! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

KylePavao · #1 11-15-2005, 09:03 PM

When I operate the turn signals, the stalk will stick neither up nor down, I need to hold it to keep it from disengaging. Is this an easy fix or does this mean I need to fetch the combination swtich from my other car? It works fine, it will just not stay in place unless I hold it there (meaning when I signal for a left turn, I must hold to stalk in the up position, if I don't it disengages and goes to the normal neutral position) It happened randomly, no signs or anything. Help!

Brian Carlton · #2 11-15-2005, 09:12 PM

From memory, there was a thread on this. You can remove the combination switch and enlarge the detent slightly and get it to function again. Apparently it's a common issue as they age. My new one on the SDL is stiff as hell.

MikeTangas · #3 11-15-2005, 09:26 PM

The fix Brian refers to only works on older MB's, pre 123 I believe.

I had posted a how-to with pictures a long time back, in the Vintage Forum. Basically, peel back the rubber boot and remove two phillips head screws. Ease the stalk out a little (other option is to drop the column) and expose the detent. Using a rattail file, or dremel with a small bit and working real slow, slightly deepen the detent notch. When I say a little I mean very little. It will take a while but file, test, file test and continue to repeat until engagement is achieved. If you go too deep you will have to manually disengage the blinker, and I can say from experience that it takes a long, long time to wear down the edge of a detent cut too deep (even just a little).

Newer models you simply replace the combo switch.

Brian Carlton · #4 11-15-2005, 09:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MikeTangas

The fix Brian refers to only works on older MB's, pre 123 I believe.

I had posted a how-to with pictures a long time back, in the Vintage Forum. Basically, peel back the rubber boot and remove two phillips head screws. Ease the stalk out a little (other option is to drop the column) and expose the detent. Using a rattail file, or dremel with a small bit and working real slow, slightly deepen the detent notch. When I say a little I mean very little. It will take a while but file, test, file test and continue to repeat until engagement is achieved. If you go too deep you will have to manually disengage the blinker, and I can say from experience that it takes a long, long time to wear down the edge of a detent cut too deep (even just a little).

Newer models you simply replace the combo switch.

Thanks Mike. I knew I remembered something about that fix. Couldn't remember who did it.

Nate · #5 11-15-2005, 09:47 PM

Wait a sec, I thought they didnt ever stay down in a 76 (I also have a 76 300d)... If I'm wrong then I am, but I thought it was one of the many German quirkes with the car (like when you turn the parking lightswitch to the left)

thanks alot, I'll do some more digging
~Nate