How do I remove the exterior door handle on an '81 300SD?
 

I've done some searching and found this video of the procedure for a W123: Outside Door Handle Removal on a 123 Chassis Mercedes by Kent Bergsma - YouTube

Ken mentions that on later models it's necessary to insert the key and turn it in order to remove the handle. I also saw that mentioned in some of the past threads posted here regarding the W126. The problem is that I won't have a key when I try to remove the handle. I'm currently on the look out for a straight drivers side front door to replace the dented one currently on my car. If I find something at Pick and Pull, I doubt that there will be a key laying around.

Any other tips regarding wiring, electric lock switch, etc... ?

Thanks

I'd look in the car at the yard for the key or ask the proprietor for the key.

Memory ???
 

I'm pretty sure on w126s you need the key......but it's been awhile since I wrestled with a door handle. On w123s, no key necessary.

I do not remember needing a key. I do remember that you remove something from inside the door, then slide the handle (believe you slide it toward the rear) and the handle comes out. There must be directions on the forum because I read about sliding it someplace. Chilton might have something.

some w123 u need to turn the linkage 90 degree it was tricky when i did a 84 300d w123.
Never tried the w126 is PITA.
I am parting out one so may go there too.

SD300. I remember that it was quite easy to take out the door handle in my 81 300SD. There must be directions in the forum someplace.

I refined my search from W126 door handle to 300SD door handle, and came up with this: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/340302-w126-drivers-door-lock-stuck.html

Now I need to find a good silver/blue door.

Did you get it fixed?

I haven't found a good door yet. I also need to get some estimates on how much it will cost to paint the door and blend the rear door and fender to match the door.

I've got to do the same thing to a black 126 pretty soon. Let me know how this turns out. I've got removing the handle downpat, I'm talking about the paint and changing the door.

That would be a nice project to photo and post here.

I couldn't get my door handle off without a key. Were I to try to remove a handle without a key I'd drill the lock out on the old door, if you don't have a key you ain't gonna need the handle.

I took the door handle that I removed from a W123 at the Pick-A-Part to the local locksmith shop and they made a key to fit the lock for $45. Sure solved my problem of no key in about 4 hours. Maybe this is the route you want to consider.

Good Luck

No, no I screwed that post up big time. What I should have said is I took the Pick-A-Part door handle to the local Locksmith and had them make the lock fit my existing key for $45. I think everyone knows that Locksmiths can make a key for a lock that you don't have a key for. They can also rework your lock to fit your existing key. Sorry about all of that confusion. Old age, Senility, you get the idea.