Ignition stuck, sparks fly
 

I was trying to move the lock pen on my ignition switch, so I can unlock the steering wheel, and turn key to start my car. I put the screwdriver in as far as it would go, in the little hole, and wham sparks. What kind of damage did I do?

It would help if you put what car you have into your signature.

What do you have? W115 240D? W123 300D? W124 300D? W126 300SD? W140 350SD? W210 E300? W211 E320 CDI?

I have a 1982 300D turbo

I don't seem to remember any electrical connections in that area that could be accessed when releasing the lock collar. Try disconnecting the battery and trying again.

I order the Ignition lock set, do I need the pen too. Or should I replace the whole assembly?

The two primary parts that go bad in that assembly are the tumbler (what you insert the key into), and the lock (what the tumbler turns).

Once you have your tumbler out try operating it in your hand to see if it is the culprit. If it is bad order a new one from the dealer, if it is good order a ignition lock from the "buy parts" link at the top of this page.

I did the whole assembly. Once you get the locking pin out you might as well. You should be able to get the ignition and door locks with matching key for around $150-200. Just get copies of the key!

I just bought a new tumbler and got a Chinese part. It works, but there's more slop in the barrel than an old German one I have. The insert pin is a whole lot stiffer. If you can find a good German one, get it.

Rick

I order the tumbler from diesel giant. My next question is how to get the tumbler part out when the key wont turn to the second position?

O.K. problem solved I gust order a new housing and black ring. Thank you all.

Sense my car was down anyway I went ahead and took off the dash-cap. I got a used not cracked one last year. Now we are changing out the vacuum elements. We were sent one thats different.

Please tell us were it goes. Part#: 000 800 17 75