key won;'t turn in 1989 300E - Page 2 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

loubapache · #1 02-04-2007, 06:40 PM

If you could live with two different keys (one for the doors and one for the ignition), then you can buy a new tumbler from Ebay for real cheap. The tumbler will come with two keys.

This happened to my 91 300E and that was what I did. Make sure you do it when you can still turn the tumbler. When you cannot, it is a big job.

AdMaven · #2 02-04-2007, 06:49 PM

We got the key out and I left it at my indie. The MB parts guy said the new tumbler will work with my key and they order it with the VIN number.

I thought about the ebay route but didn't want different key for the doors and trunk and the trunk lock needs to be replaced too so I'm going to order that at the same time. I have to turn the key to the left and pull out on the trunk button, then back to center in order for the button to push and open the trunk. Have had it cleaned but still having problems so as long as I have to replace the ignition I'll have that replaced as well.

My indie can install both.

I'm not putting the key in the ignition again until they replace it.

Can they check the tumbler with my key when I pick it up? I don't think it's been re-keyed and the parts guy said if it had they would order the new key ID as it would be in their system by VIN. I just want to make sure before I get it back that it will work.

haasman · #3 02-04-2007, 07:28 PM

Liquid spray graphite (graphite suspended) really works well for short-term lock problems. I say short-term because the graphite won't last. The proper Mercedes type door lock lube is much more long-lasting. The liquid spray graphite just gets into and all over everything. The can comes with the typical little red snorkle to insert into the lock's key opening.

The liquid spray graphite is typically found in hardware stores in small spray cans where lock stuff is sold.

Several squirts, letting it sit has worked for me with several key/lock/tumbler nightmares.

The "key" (sorry couldn't resist) is to get the little pins in the lockset to move. The vibration suggestion is known to help. Gentle rocking of the wheel but most especially gradually, gently and persistently moving the key is your best bet.

The alternative is lowering the under dash and drilling the lockmount etc. You don't want to know.

BTW, the fresh key use is something I do. I have little lock problems because with each car I buy, I replace the key with a new one and use the old one as an emergency backup.

Haasman

BENZ-LGB · #4 02-24-2007, 12:53 AM

This is a very common problem with older Benzes. I've replaced tumblers in my (former) 1984 300SD and 1991 420SEL.

I've also changed it in my (current) 1989 300TE and 1991 300CE.

The 300CE turned out to be a big surprise.

My mechanic (Enrique of Mr. MB Motors) ordered a new ignition tumbler. When he installed the new tumbler, it turned out that the new key wouldn't work on the door/trunk/glove compartment locks.

It appears that at some point during its lifetime, the 300CE was broken into (I found small pieces of borken glass while looking under the searts) and the PO replaced ALL the locks in the car. So the lock and the keys that it had when I bought it did not match the VIN.

So Enrique took out all the locks, we took them to a locksmith and he keyed them to match the correct VIN-linked key.

Cost of rekeying the locks: $100.00

Cost of R&R the locks: $100.00

Piece of mind knowing that all the locks now match and that I have a new ignition tumbler that should last me a few years: PRICELESS!

black beaut-E · #5 03-17-2008, 08:23 AM

Hey guys Have anyone of you heard of adjusting the ignition switch interlock cable to free up that sticking key problem? I've been having the sticking ignition recently, and checked through a few different forums and about adjusting that ignition switch interlock cable, but I'm not sure where the adjustment is. Is it from inside the car or underneath at the side of the tranny I tried lifting the center console with the window switches but could not see anything that looks like an adjustment I did see the cable but not where it ended somewhere below the gear shifter assembly. However in the process of trouble shooting I did remove the panel below the steering wheel/column the one above the gas and brake pedals, to get to the ignition, and found where the ignition switch interlock ended on the ignition unit assembly it had the silver turning end to it, I twisted it off while the key was in at the first turn position (the one after inserting the key pass the stuck ignition position) and the key turned like silk but it just wont come out of the ignition, I was tempted to leave a key in the ignition and keep it concealed to eliminate the sticking problem, but the thought of someone getting into the car and having easy access to starting and driving off with it, slapped sense back into me. But the point is that it turned flawlessly like silk with the ignition switch interlock cable detached, which seems to tell me that the tumbler is working fine so it must be something with that cable that's causing the problem. Any ideas and does anyone know where the adjustment for that cable is and how to adjust it?