FYI, an '85 w123 with the factory alarm system may have a different actuator/configuration due to the emergency release cable under the rear seat.

You should be able to disconnect the vacuum lines going to it and be able to open the trunk without the key in the unlocked position. However, this also means you have to lock it manually.

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If I can recall it well enough to describe, it seems like when you turn the key to the 'unlock' position it doesn't change the mechanism setting inside... until it does, one time in 20.

Maybe it is the vacuum actuation holding it locked, but I would have to wonder at how as I thought the trunk got its vacuum from the door circuits and mine are inop, plugged with golf tees at the moment (shame, shame, I know).

Brainfart: Or have I got this turned around, the vacuum unlocks not vice versa... ahhhh....

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Mac
2002 e320 4matic estate│1985 300d│1980 300td
Previous: 1979 & 1982 & 1983 300sd │ 1982 240d

“Let's take a drive into the middle of nowhere with a packet of Marlboro lights and talk about our lives.” ― Joseph Heller, Catch-22

In addition to disconnecting the vacuum lines, it might also be necessary to manually move the actuator to the UNLOCK position. Securing the actuator in said position would be a good idea.

No. The vacuum mechanism has nothing to do with the lock cylinder. Note that the "button" can be depressed without a key, regardless of the vacuum lock position.

The CD has this problem also, the locks have been unplugged.

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83 SD

84 CD