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-   -   300E Ignition Tumbler Removal-Help please (http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/123618-300e-ignition-tumbler-removal-help-please.html)

Rupert 05-17-2005 01:45 PM

300E Ignition Tumbler Removal-Help please
 
I set out to solve my problem by reading all the various postings on this subject but having followed instructions I am still in trouble. My key was stuck and would not turn even after two days of jiggling. I ordered a new tumbler and proceeded to drill out the old one . I have now drilled a 3/8" hole down the center of the tumbler but I cannot get it out. It would appear that the outer black cylinder (with the key positions indicated on it) will have to be removed before the tumbler can be extracted but I cannot find a release clip or anything to aid removal.

Can anyone who has had this problem please help me out. This is my daily driver and the motorcycle isn't a good replacement. I need help URGENTLY!

TX76513 05-17-2005 01:51 PM

Many of thread has been written including my own woes from 2 weeks ago. Very important to know - what year E ? Some differences in models makes for painfull results. I do fear that drilling was not a good idea as you may need plastic explosives to remove the remaining parts.

LOCK OUT

Rupert 05-18-2005 10:01 AM

Thanks for the response. I have a 1989 300E with 125K miles. I regret that my search did not lead me to some of the threads you suggested so I will just have to salvage what I can. I probably will not resort to Plastic explosives but I will use some of the suggestions, since I am not the first to do 'drilling' before 'jiggling'.

Thanks to all those MBers and Techs who have contributed to teaching and coaching and guiding us novices.

TX76513 05-18-2005 10:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rupert
Thanks for the response. I have a 1989 300E with 125K miles. I regret that my search did not lead me to some of the threads you suggested so I will just have to salvage what I can. I probably will not resort to Plastic explosives but I will use some of the suggestions, since I am not the first to do 'drilling' before 'jiggling'.

Thanks to all those MBers and Techs who have contributed to teaching and coaching and guiding us novices.

When you get your new cylinder in - examine how that 1.25mm rod holds down the pin that allows the outside hardened steel case to turn. This is what you will need to remove (or hold down). The MB ignition is a marvelous thing :

Rupert 05-20-2005 12:26 PM

Thanks for staying with me on this one. As you clearly warned me ...Drilling was not a good idea. Anyway, I finally removed the tumbler and found that I had drilled too deeply and cut away some of that aluminum slot that the key interfaces with, so now I will have to replace the lower section also. I have already ordered the tumbler and I am now trying to figure out if I need a complete switch including steering lock, or just the switch.

Any suggestions?

carson356 05-20-2005 12:52 PM

drilling
 
see the attaced picture below, the circled area is the only part i have ever been able to drill, hit with a 90 degree die grinder, or smash with a punch and hammer, and be able to remove a jammed lock assembly, i believe that is what people refer to when they say you need to drill out the lock. it is the retaining pin. there is a collar that you will need to loosen before it can be removed either way, the collar has a 10mm retaining bolt.

soko 06-22-2005 09:47 PM

okay so i'm lost, what if you can't get the key to turn to that position, how do you get the cylinder out?

Gilly 06-22-2005 10:42 PM

You need to one of a few different things:
First, you WILL need to replace the steering wheel lock assembly, the tumbler, and for good measure I'd do the ignition switch too. I believe you'll also need that black outer collar.
You'll need to remove the instrument cluster, and under-dash panel.
If the ignition is locked in the off position, you need to either drill out ir grind out the small locking button that locks the steering lock to the steering jacket tube, OR alternatively you can remove the clamp on the jacket tube and try to pry the sheetmetal part of the jacket tube enough so the lock will slide out. Usually this is done on the bench, meaning remove the upper jacket tube, but I find this to be more agreeable than trying to repair it while installed in the car.
DON'T mess with the new steering wheel lock before installing the new tumbler, you can ruin the new steering lock!
Gilly

Rupert 06-23-2005 12:23 PM

300E ignition tumbler
 
Thanks Users. I truly appreciate the responses I received on this problem...and now I feel I could repair or replace an ignition switch without much ado. One thing I would advise is to try to replace the ignition tumbler early ie as soon as the key starts sticking and while it is still possible to turn the key to the #1 position. DO NOT try to squeeze another few weeks out of a failing ignition switch. It is much cheaper to get yourself a 2mm dia 3 inch long Ushaped pin ground to 70degrees (inside out) and you will be able to remove and replace the tumbler in 10 minutes flat.

dlssmith 06-23-2005 04:30 PM

I have noticed my key sticking occasionally in position 2 (I think). Should I replace the thing now? Or is the key just worn?

DS
87 300D
Northern Iowa

engatwork 06-23-2005 04:42 PM

dls - if it is the original I would replace it.

dlssmith 06-23-2005 05:20 PM

When purchasing the tumbler, what all is required? Do new keys come with it?

DS
87 300D
Northern Iowa

Gilly 06-23-2005 09:48 PM

You should order it by VIN number so everything matches, it will come with at least 1 new key which will match your car. DO NOT let them try to sell you one off the shelf (generic key code), make them order one for YOUR car.
Gilly

dlssmith 06-24-2005 09:39 AM

Is this a dealer item? And, what should I expect to pay?

Thanks.

DS
87 300D
Northern Iowa

WANT '71 280SEL 06-24-2005 09:46 AM

I just bought one yesterday for my brother's car and it was $90 something I believe. However, you have to add 20% to get your cost. So figure $110 or so.

Thanks
David


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