Need Help
 

Is the key slot in the truck lock supposed to be vertical or horizonal in its opening position? Since I bought this 1984 500SL the lock slot is horizonal and I can't get it to turn in any direction. It would open fine but I have locked the car and now the truck won't open. All other locks open and close. I can hear the mechanism making noise there but even with lots of pounding, key insertion and pushing, and cussing it won't open. The lock on my 380 SE moves in both directions and normally is vertical when in the opening position. I have stuff in the trunk that I must get to!
Any thoughts or advice??
Mike :mad:

Need Help
 

Do a search on this site under the heading of "Trunk Lock Problem". Seems others have had the same problem in the past. It may help. Otherwise if the lock is just frozen try graphite powder in the lock and see if that free's it up before going drasstic measures like drilling.

trunk lock position to open (on my 450SL 1977)
 

Key slot is vertical (closed) put key in slot, push and turn right (horizonthal) this opens lock on MY trunk. However, possible license plate light cames off and possible entree to lock mechanisim. If you do get this corrected, disconnect vacum system from trunk lock and use manually. good luck, Abe G

There are several posts on this, including one from me, about how to open the trunk. You need to drill a very precise hole in the trim piece and poke the lock with a screwdriver.

Got it! I pounded on the key lock with the butt end of a large screw driver and it popped open. It is obvious that the lock is broken since I can't make the key turn in any direction. I'll try and remove it and find a replacement on one of the auction sites. Thanks to all that replied. I love this board!
Mike
1985 380SE 208K
1984 Euro 500SL 106K