I can't find the ignition locking pin on 1984 126 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ROLLGUY · #1 06-23-2012, 04:35 PM

I need to replace the electrical part of the ignition switch on my 1984 300SD. I have the key, and the electrical connection and collar clamp are removed. The problem is that I can't feel or see the locking pin! I can feel the two slots on opposite sides, but no hole for a pin to push in. Am I missing something here? I don't want to remove the dash (although I have a crack free replacement dash, no time today to take it on!), so what should I do?

kerry · #2 06-23-2012, 04:42 PM

drop the steering column and the pin becomes visible point towards the driver.

ROLLGUY · #3 06-23-2012, 04:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kerry

drop the steering column and the pin becomes visible point towards the driver.

I did that and still can't see or feel a pin or hole. I know it has to be there. I just don't know what to do, other than bite the bullet and replace the dash. I was not planning to spend the entire day trying to start the engine!

kerry · #4 06-23-2012, 05:11 PM

Hmmm? About a 1/4 in diameter towards the column end of the tube the switch inserts into.

ROLLGUY · #5 06-23-2012, 05:11 PM

Well Kerry, it was there exactly where you said it was. I needed to move the column towards the passenger side to be able to barely see the pin. It was perfectly flush with the housing, and that is why I could not feel it. I was able to barely see it enough to push it with my dash removing tool (90 degree angle) from below, while looking from above with a flashlight. I had to hold the column to the right with my knee, while using my other two hands to push the pin, and hold the light. Thanks for the encouragement, that is what it took!. I have another (unrelated) problem though. There is oil all over the switch and the vac hoses. Could I have a bad vacuum shutoff? That is the only place I can figure the oil is coming from. It shuts down just fine, so I am not sure what the problem is. Thanks again, Rich

kerry · #6 06-23-2012, 05:16 PM

It sounds like oil from the shut off valve. Could be old oil from a previous failure that wasn't cleaned out.

ROLLGUY · #7 06-23-2012, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kerry

It sounds like oil from the shut off valve. Could be old oil from a previous failure that wasn't cleaned out.

I figured that is the only thing it could be. It looks like the original part, so I doubt it was ever replaced. I have a good one, I might as well replace it. Thanks, Rich

charmalu · #8 06-24-2012, 02:45 AM

Use some Brake Cleaner to blow the oil out of the vac lines and then with some compressed air.

I installed some inline fuel filters I picked up at a car swap meet for $1.00 a piece. this way you will see oil in the filters before it contaminates the system.

Vacuum Line Filter

Charlie

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