Ignition Lock Cylinder Stuck in Position "0", Can't get it apart to fix it!!! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ashyers · #1 10-11-2009, 11:12 PM

Spent a bit of the weekend working on the '93 500E and I'm convinced it's out to get me! Finished up, went to drive home and...

The Ignition is stuck in Position "0". I've disassembeled things to the point were I could pull the assembly out, except I can't remove it without the Ignition Locking Cylinder in Position "1". I think that something in the Locking Cylinder failed and now the key will not work. Any suggestions before I grab the die grinder and cut the damn thing apart!

Thanks,
Andy

Crazy_Nate · #2 10-11-2009, 11:29 PM

I've seen a post or two about using a vibratory-type power sander on the key while it's in the ignition (not sanding, just vibrating) while trying to turn the key. If it turns, you're golden. Some other things like trying other keys or maybe a special aerosol lubricant might help.

I did a how-to post on doing the lock cylinder of a W124 - very easy if it'll turn. If not...the 'fun' begins. In the DIY section, there's a W201 lock cylinder removal post (should be pretty similar to the W124). Very labor intensive.

Best of luck!

ashyers · #3 10-12-2009, 12:45 AM

Thanks for the link!

I didn't know these things had this problem or I would have replaced the lock cylinder as preventive maintenance! I'm unable to get the tumbler to move with various types of abuse. Looks like I'll have to do some grinding

.

What I'd like to know now is what I should cut to get this thing apart. In the link the author drilled out the locking pin that holds the assembly to the column. I'm wondering if I cut off the cap, will I be able to get the tumbler out? I'd like to minimize the potential for damage and also keep from spending loads of $ on this lovely little project!

Andy

Crazy_Nate · #4 10-12-2009, 12:54 AM

Here's another thread: Think the tumbler has gone on 88 300TE

It looks like a lot of grinding, however, less potential for damage it seems.

ashyers · #5 10-12-2009, 01:40 AM

I think I'll give that a try. The cap is $13, tumbler $52. If I can get the tumbler out by butchering the cap I'll be in good shape. I DON'T want to harm the housing it's $125!

Time to rev up the carbide cutters and death wheel!

Thanks for the links. If nothing else, I'm not alone with this issue!

Andy

fred1948 · #6 10-12-2009, 09:24 AM

After reading this post and the referenced posts, I decided that I should be proactive rather than reactive on the switch of my 1995 E320 wagon. Several months ago I had the key not want to turn but with a little jiggling it turned. I removed the key and sprayed some lubricant into the cylinder and everything has been working fine since then. Reading this post made me realize that I should have a closer look before it was too late.

I made a tool from a piece of coat hanger, went to the car and turned the switch to the correct position to insert the tool. Inserted the tool and couldn't get the cylinder to release. After several attempts it finally released and I removed it. I then turned the key and removed it so that I could take the black bezel off. A couple of small pieces had broken off and fell out as I was removing the key. This could have failed on me at any time!!!

I will use a screwdriver to start the car for a couple of days until I get the new cylinder.

Thank you everyone that made me nervous enough to check mine out!
This only takes a few minutes and is well worth the effort. Sure beats having to struggle with it when the key locks up and won't turn.

babymog · #7 10-12-2009, 09:41 AM

If you're using a screwdriver, remember to return to position "1" before inserting the new lock.

TAG · #8 10-12-2009, 05:50 PM

I had a similar situation and someone here suggested using a different key. It worked for me, may be worth a shot.

fred1948 · #9 10-12-2009, 06:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by babymog

If you're using a screwdriver, remember to return to position "1" before inserting the new lock.

Thanks for the reminder.
I ordered the new cylinder and key today. $75 plus tax.
One more thing to check off my list!

ashyers · #10 10-12-2009, 07:06 PM

Well, I have the tumbler out. That's the good news. Death wheel and a big screwdriver removed that in about 15 minutes.

Bad news is I am unable to rotate the mechanism. I suspect this is due to the tumbler being removed with the key in a position somewhere between 0 and 1. What do I have to do to get the pin to retract that holds the housing to the steering column? I can work with the tumbler out, but have not found the trick yet.

Any ideas?

I'd really like to get the car started so I could move it so I may work on it as I have time.

Andy

ashyers · #11 10-12-2009, 08:40 PM

Looks like the tumbler may not have been the culprit. I'm trying to remove the housing as it appears to be locked up. Getting that thing out from under the dash is going to be a fun one. I think I'll have to drop the column a bit to get it out. That's for tomorrow. I've had way to much fun for today! I can say that Snap On "Thunder Bits" work pretty well though...

Andy

babymog · #12 10-12-2009, 10:00 PM

There've been a couple of switch and housing failures here lately. You can remove the switch from the housing, and the housing from the steering column if in position 1 IIRC. If not, a bear to get the pin to retract and get the assembly free from the steering column, might be easier to just install a used upper-column if you're in that far.

ashyers · #13 10-12-2009, 10:53 PM

I've drilled out the retaining pin so the switch housing is now loose in the column. I just can't pull it out because I'm unable to remove the electrical plug at the rear of the switch. I think if I drop the column a bit I may be able to sneak it out. Hopefully I'll get it out tomorrow so I can see what failed.

babymog · #14 10-12-2009, 10:54 PM

The plug is designed to be removed, ... only in position 1.

Sorry for more bad news.

ashyers · #15 10-13-2009, 09:15 AM

Is there any way to force the locking mechanism into P1? I am willing to cut the thing up, as I have to purchase one anyway. I'd prefer not to destroy the connector at the back. If I cut the electrical switch housing off the locking mechanism will I be able to remove the electrical connector? I wish I could see inside this thing!

Andy