Since we have had some really cold weather here in Maine, my 300D key will not move into the spring loaded start position. I can turn the key to the glow cycle (they work perfectly), but it won't go into start. Just like if you try to start, and fail, you have to cycle to key to try again.

I've jumpered the wires in front of the battery and the starter will turn.

Is this a neutral safety switch issue, or an Ignition Lock issue?

Jon

'85 300D

No, it is the steering switch and/or lock unit failing.

Ignition Cylinder Tumbler replacement; mixed diesel/gas


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__________________
ASE Master Mechanic
asemastermechanic@juno.com

Prototype R&D/testing:
Thermal & Aerodynamic System Engineering (TASE) Senior vehicle instrumentation technician.
Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH).
Dynamometer.
Heat exchanger durability.
HV-A/C Climate Control.
Vehicle build.
Fleet Durability
Technical Quality Auditor.
Automotive Technical Writer

1985 300SD
1983 300D
1984 190D
2003 Volvo V70
2002 Honda Civic

https://www.boldegoist.com/

Why the steering lock? The steering unlock activates before getting to the glow position. I'd put in some graphite and see what happens. It's not the NSS.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

for your own good change out the lock asap........once upon a time mine "popped" (goes locked and will never open again) in my coupe, parked in a "no-parking" parkinglot and i had to pay a "ghetto hoodlum" that a friend knows to spend 20 minutes under there, using his best car stealing skills, a pick, and a big hammer......and he wasnt even sure, he was very happy when he got it loose.......then i had to leave the key in the car until i got a new lock, so it wouldnt re-engage......this could have cost alot, or been a huge job, removing the steering column.....so please, get that changed before it goes.....mine felt "loose" for a few weeks before it went......if i had known what a circus it was going to be, i would have ordered a new one immediately.....

__________________
-Justin

I believe in extreme automotive perfection whenever possible.......there is no such thing as "It doesn't matter" !!!

1985 300 CDT - 287k miles

1980 240 D - 340k miles

With extras !!

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Been there, done this to many times.
It will be one or both, switch and/or steering lock.
IMO the only safe way to address this is replacing both.

I agree it is an incredible PIA once they totally fail.
If it is the switch, the guts can come apart shorting and/or or mechanically jamming the key turn ability.
If it is the steering lock, it can jam/lock in any position = hacking, drilling, pounding.
The part comes as an assembly, because if one fails, the other usually will also soon.

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__________________
ASE Master Mechanic
asemastermechanic@juno.com

Prototype R&D/testing:
Thermal & Aerodynamic System Engineering (TASE) Senior vehicle instrumentation technician.
Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH).
Dynamometer.
Heat exchanger durability.
HV-A/C Climate Control.
Vehicle build.
Fleet Durability
Technical Quality Auditor.
Automotive Technical Writer

1985 300SD
1983 300D
1984 190D
2003 Volvo V70
2002 Honda Civic

https://www.boldegoist.com/

Steering lock seems to be working OK....maybe I just do not understand the system.

Key goes in and out just fine. Turns back and forth OK. Glow system works fine.

Since it started when temps were in the -4 to +10 range, would heat help?

OK, I am listening. What parts to order, and best place to get them.....I want to keep the same key.

Somehow, I have a feeling this is going to cost $$$$.

Jon

Steering Lock - With Ignition Switch & Vacuum Valve
MB# 126 462 07 30
Pelican Parts - Automotive Parts and Accessories - Porsche & BMW


.

__________________
ASE Master Mechanic
asemastermechanic@juno.com

Prototype R&D/testing:
Thermal & Aerodynamic System Engineering (TASE) Senior vehicle instrumentation technician.
Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH).
Dynamometer.
Heat exchanger durability.
HV-A/C Climate Control.
Vehicle build.
Fleet Durability
Technical Quality Auditor.
Automotive Technical Writer

1985 300SD
1983 300D
1984 190D
2003 Volvo V70
2002 Honda Civic

https://www.boldegoist.com/

I am not say you have the same issue but at first I thought My Lock Tumbler was to blam.

Steering Colum Lock (Ignition Lock Housing) causes Ignition Switch Failure

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel