Help on "key area"
 

Someone tried to steal our 300SE by jamming a screwdriver into the area where you insert your key. Now we cant even get the key to go in. How do I go about removing and replacing this part?
Any help would be greatly appreciated

Well, That can really make for a problem because the key has to go in and turn to get the lock mechanism out. I would suggest, but can't affirm any type of results in this case, but that if you have a "Dremel Tool", you might be able to rub out enough of the damage, with a suitable grind stone, to allow you to insert the key and proceed. The key has to go in and be able to turn!!! If you took it to a locksmith that is where he would probably have to start. Then if you use the search function you will find directions as to how the lock can be removed. This is a different procedure then removing the lock on a W123, 240/300D car which use a single pin to release the lock. On the 300 SE, I think it requires a very specific piece of wire with a taper grind on the end to release the lock, not only very specific regarding size, but bent in a "U" shape and you have to go in with two wires, the forming of which has to be done just right. They did their best to make that lock "theft Proof!

Theft proof is right because the so-called thief wasn't able to steal the car. :)

Here is a page with some really good help for you, but only after you get the key in and are able to turn it.
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/256723-90-300e-ignition-tumbler-replace-help.html?highlight=bicycle+spoke

ok guys and gals....
I finally got the key to go in all the way, but can't turn it. The steering wheel is locked and no matter what I do I cant seem to unlock it to be able to turn the key, or vice-versa. (I dont know which one is supposed to happen first...) As you can see, I'm kind of a novice when it comes to things like this..... I can, though, follow directions.... so fire away with any suggestions, please?

oh, and Junqueyard,
I'm going to order the pick tools from ZDmac tomorrow, but from what I understand, you have to be able to turn the key to the number one position to get the protective cover to unlock. True? So if I cant get it to turn, now what? How do I get the key to turn, and the steering wheel to unlock? Someone else suggested it possibly had something to do with the transmission not indicating that it was in Park? Really stumped here.... help? This is a daily driver, and we really need to get this car running again. My wife is driving my 560SEL to work and back every day now and the gas expense is gonna kill us.
Thanks;
JD

I can appreaciate the panic. But with a little luck you can probably get it to turn. First of all I recommend getting as much pressure off the steering lock as possible. If the wheels are pointed straight ahead, find a midway position between the right and left stop. It is short, but there is a middle. Some suggest that if you have a floor jack that you even raise the front end to eliminate any binding. But after that it seems that vibratory type tools will usually work. An air or electric small vibrating type sander with just the rubber pad, (no sandpaper) to message the lock area while you continue to try to turn the key will usually produce results. Don't use "hard" pressure while trying to turn the key.