Lighter socket in w126 ashtray shorted out

[300sdToronto]

The lighter socket in my 300sd ashtray in the front is shorted out - zero ohms to ground across both pins. This is with the lighter pop out removed.

Discovered this when I replaced the CCU and found the wire disconnected on the ash tray. Reconnected. Fuse blew. Now I know why.

I cannot find a spare lighter socket that fits this unit - it seems to be an integrated pop up unit - I assume the only recourse is to buy a whole ashtray assembly on stealbay?

[SD Blue]

I haven't looked that closely at mine since it hasn't given a problem. However, most disassemble from the rear, where the power connects.

I have found that the problem, on other vehicles I've had, is that some kind of contamination, rust, etc., gets around the insulator and shorts things out. Usually, removing it and a couple of shots of brake cleaner resolve the problem.

Performance Products has them but shipping to Canada would hardly make it worthwhile. Salvage would be a better bet.