Im replacing the ignition lock on my 1994 e320 and would like to know how the wiring harness separates from the ignition lock assy.. ive tried just pullling but it seems to be very firmly attatched.. do i just need to pull harder or is there something im missing here?? any help would be greatly appreciated.. i dont want to break something!~

drop the lock assembly and place the key in posistion #2 then remove the connector. If you replace the switch (damn good idea) the new onw will not have the locking pawl.


Joe

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To add to the last post, first insert the ignition key and turn to the #2 position. Doing this allows the slots in the tumbler to line up with the spring loaded locking pawls that keep the lock assembly in place. To remove the lock assembly, you must fashion a tool that will force the detents to retract, thus allowing you to pull the assembly out. The tool can be easilly made from coat hanger wire. Bend the wire into a "U" shape. Make each leg of the "U" about 6 to 8 inches long. The bottom of the "U" should be about as wide as the slots in your ignition lock. My guess would be 3/4 - 1". This does not need to be exact. Once fashioned, you will need to file or grind a 45 degree champher on the INSIDE of both legs. This champher permits the wire to slip behind the locking pawls. Once the tool is done, you may have to remove the decorative ring around the ignition lock. This ring is usually a pop over fit. Be careful prying it off so as to not mar it. Once the ring is removed, slip the legs of the tool into the two slots that are spaced 180 degrees from one another. You may need to exert a little force, but you will feel it as the tool pushs past the locking pawls. Once this occurs, while holding the tool in place, grab the ignition key and pull the tumbler out. Sorry for the long post, but this is really a pretty simple job.

Once again just want to thank all the extremely intellegent people giving advice on this forum.. got the job done , easily , without breaking anything .. thank you so much for your advice!! benjay

I just did a removal 15 min. ago, Here are a few additions to earossi's very good removal procedure:
1] On a 94 e320 you don't have to remove any interior parts as noted in the CD Manual.
2] The distance between the shafts [you insert in the holes] is 20mm.
3] A thick coat hanger wire of 2mm works well.
4] The shafts will go 40mm (1-1/2") into the lock assembly to disengage the paws.
5] A firm tug will disengage the tumbler assembly bringing the face plate and plastic cylindrical enclosure with it. [The face plate is covered by approximately 10mm of the steering column surround].
6] Removal of the tumbler assembly won't cut power to the accessories. So you can listen to the radio or tape while doint the R&R.
Total time: less than a hour
Total cost: $92 + sales tax
Bob