so my ignition switch quit working
 

It seems that the lock and tumbler assembly is still good, I don't have any spring return when i try to put the key into the start position. Is the spring return part of the ignition (electrical) portion of the switch? I'm thinking about buying one from mercedes source as they include a tool and instructions to remove the electrical portion of the switch without removing the rest. Should i pick up a lock tumbler too? my key is fairly worn, but not as bad as some i've seen.

I was able to get the car home by hot wiring the purple/white wire to one of the big red wires.

yes

so just to confirm here, replacing the electrical portion of the assembly should solve my problem?

Wonder what his "Special tool is? A straightened out Paper Clip?
In order to remove the plug from the rear of the Ignition Switch.... as per the FSM.

Turn locking cylinder into position "1" by means
of ignition key. Pull plug connection from steering
lock starter switch.

NOTE: On vehicles manufactured from middle of 1980
the plug connection can be pulled off only in position
"1", since it is locked in all other ignition key
positions.

You will however have to remove the Instrument cluster to better access the plug. I have R&R 3 of these Steering lock assy. there are 3 screws that are in the rear of the ignition Switch. I don`t see how it is possible to remove these w/o removing the whole Steering lock assy.

Charlie

it looks like some kind of little ratchet wrench.
i'm actually about to hit radio shack for a toggle switch and a button. That's going to have to work for awhile.. i have not the time nor money to dump into fixing this correctly at the moment.

Here is a post I did on removing the whole lock assy.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/2485778-post5.html

You really don`t need any special tools to remove the assembly.
It has a level of difficulty, then after doing it once, it is a piece of cake.

Looking on the Fast Lane parts list. the ignition Switch is Part#
W0133-1623898 and lists for $33.10.

Don`t buy the Euro part.

Charlie

thanks! i got it rigged up with a toggle switch and a button for now...

OK, great. keep that link I posted for future reference if you decide to replace it.

I bet the ratchet wrench is a 10mm for the bolt on the clamp. I used my 1/4" wratchet and 10mm socket.

I did remove the 2 13mm nuts that holds the steering column. can see them with the cluster out. when it drops down a bit, it gives you a little more wiggle room to work.

Charlie