W123 Lost Keys....need advice.....
 

1980 240D lost keys.
Have a parts car with good tumbler and keys.
The only post for removal I found required the key for removal. That's gonna be an issue.
Please advise.
Thanks in advance.
Jay
ps. as a side question- what's the best place to get blanks (keys) for my '85 300D and this 240D? Are the round ones covered in black plastic my only option? or are there different choices?

The dealer can get you a new key. You'll need to take the title to proove the VIN and ownership. They cost more than a key made at the local key joint, but it's a Mercedes key. You can have copies of that made at the local key joint.

To get one out and back in ( ignition steering wheel lock) requires the dash coming out to do it without messing up your dash--does the parts car have a nice dash-if no cracks email me.;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NojBirBv19E&feature=related

Try something along these lines,if the locks are worn a bit it will make it easier.

Plenty more video's available online showing the basic principles.

What he is doing in the video is putting slight tension on the lock for it to turn and then raking the tumbler wafers,once they get to the unlock position the tension applied by the other tool holds them there.

Not that easy and you may need to play around for a while but better than having to remove dash etc

Cheat
 

You can cheat with a full parts car = swap the steering column, it is easy.

Ignition Cylinder Tumbler replacement; mixed diesel/gas
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/142232-ignition-cylinder-tumbler-replacement%3B-mixed-diesel-gas.html#post1065596

I didnt lose my keys, but only had ONE at time of purchase. I went to the dealer with my title and had new keys lickety split. Worked like a champ.

What's your time worth? This was a no brainer for me.