Hi all,

I've got an '87 300e and my wife had to get a tow home because she couldn't get the key to turn in the ignition switch. I lubed the switch with some WD-40 and got it to turn but it is still very sticky. I'm guessing that it is time to replace the tumbler but the ******** page says that special tools and training may be required to replace the tumbler. I can't find any reference to replacing the tumbler in my MB service manual CD.

Does anyone know what is involved in replacing the tumbler? I'm quite familiar with replacing tumblers on normal keys, but of course the MB keys are like nothing I've ever worked on. The other dilema is that I'd really like to keep the original key, or at least one key for the whole car - so is there a way to modify the new tumbler to work with the old key? I've been able to do this in the past with the barrels in conventional tumblers.

Your comments are appreciated as always!

Bob Kopicki
'67 TR-4a
'76 GMC C-15
'85 XJ-6 (for sale)
'87 300e
'97 VW Cabrio