I worked out a solution to getting the dreaded "stuck key in ignition" scenario and have read the many well-written threads on removing the cylinder lock. But something must not be clicking in my little brain. The 126 has 1 slot to insert a 1.3mm rod into at the #2 position. This is validated as it slides in deeper( 1/2") as you rotate the key at about 2'oclock and no where else through the starter activation is this possible. Should I feel something release? Other DIY's say the black retaining cap comes off easy counter clockwise - mine will not budge even with needle noose pliers assist. Where am I going astray?

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15 VW Passat TDI
00 E420
98 E300 DT
97 E420 Donor Car - NEED PARTS? PM ME!
97 S500
97 E300D
86 Holden Jackaroo Turbo D
86 300SDL
(o\|/o)

Here are some instructions:






1. Here is the key in the ignition


2. This is how the key should line up so that you can insert the wire into the slots in the lock barrel


3. Here is the slot on the other side


4. This is the steel wire I used. I just cut a piece and made a "U" shape


5. This is the steel wire being inserted into the ignition


6. Here it is coming out


7. Here it is apart


I hope this helps you.

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1989 300CE Astralsilber/Schwarz
1992 300CE Schwarz/Schwarz

those are very nice, but he has the lock cylinder with the single pin, see pictures, the first one gives the specifications for making the tool, and the next two show how to remove the tumbler.

Well any good threads deserves a conclusion - and lesson(s) learned. The ingnition cylinder came right out last night On the way home stopped and purchased a 1.25 hex allen and a set of bent needle nose pliers at Harbor Freight. Used the vibrating sander to again get me to #2 position. Stuck the 1.25 allen in, pushed and "crunch" - I knew something was different this time. The needle noose pliers were an excellent substitution for the $32 cylinder remover. Thanks "Carson" for the technical data it made all the differnce in the world.
Conclusion
#1 Get the right information on what you are working on 123's and 126's are different birds sometimes. 1.25 made all the difference, using 1.3, 1.5, paperclips, wire did not work
#2 The bent needle nose is a decent substitution $3 at H.F.
#3 The vibrating sander worked well in moving the key off the lock position, did this many time over the many days of this 15 minute repair
Timing is just right as I see my cylinder from Phil is in town Hopefully there are no "tricks or traps" to the re-install (thanks to everyone)

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__________________
BENZ THERE DONE THAThttp://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/...c/progress.gif
15 VW Passat TDI
00 E420
98 E300 DT
97 E420 Donor Car - NEED PARTS? PM ME!
97 S500
97 E300D
86 Holden Jackaroo Turbo D
86 300SDL
(o\|/o)