'94 c280 ignition tumbler stuck...
 

I've read a few threads on this topic here and followed an offsite link with some good instructions and diagrams on the removal of the tumbler/core.

However, my question is what are some good techniques for getting the blasted key to turn so that I can remove it?

I've spent a total of about 45 minutes trying various turning of the key and turning of the wheel, moving the key in and out, etc.

And, I do get a very little bit of a turn, but it just won't go all the way.

I'm thinking about using a clean mascara(sp?) brush with a little bit of WD-40 or rust breaker type fluid on the brush and wiggle it around in there to try and loosen things up. Sound o.k.? Any harm done?

Also read a post where virbrations might work to loosen things up, so I thought about using my beard trimmer and just hold it up against ignition.

Any and all suggestions welcome.

Thanks a bunch!

i've used a vise grip on yhe key & really shook & wiggled it while trying to turn it. but it will only work 1 time.

one time?
 

I don't understand what you mean saying it will only work one time?

Thanks for the tip.

that means that if you get it to work with the vise grip the tumbler is realy worn out & you don't want to turn the key back again because i am sure you will not be able to turn it again.

I tend to replace the tumbler and steering lock at the same time. The locks will stick as well. You also can pull them as a chunk if you can at least get the key past the steering wheel locked point. I've also had to cut 'em off. (violent end to its life) If you resort to cutting, remove the cluster and knee bolster, disconnect the battery and cut it with a sawzall at the side of the jacket tube, then remove the remainder of the lock.




Joe

Good, Goood, Gooood, Vibrations!!!
 

Vibrations is the best thing to try first most times it works like a charm!

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/39531-gonna-cut-w123-ignition-lock-key-wont-turn.html?highlight=ignition+lock+tumbler

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/38615-help-ingnition-switch-wont-budge-off-position.html?highlight=ignition+lock+tumbler

Good Vibrating Luck!!!

;)

well...
 

I used some rust breaking fluid and a small brush and "swizzled" the ignition. At first I was in the process of cleaning it by moving the brush in and out, wiping it clean, then repeating. I did manage to get a lot of gunk out.

I then used my beard trimmer and held it up against the ignition and up against the key in the ignition.

Absolutely no change :(

It's weird...I can turn the key enough the unlock the wheel, but that's it. I will try it on more time tomorrow.

If (please only be if) I have to have it towed to the shop, am I o.k. the way it's parked? It's parked into a spot up against a curb. So the truck would have to pick it up from the rear and roll it on the front wheels.

I cannot get the car out of Park either.

Also, what's the expected cost of the surgery from an indy shop?
I believe in other posts I've seen around $500, sound about right?

Thanks for all the tips!

order a coded tumbler from the dealer about 80.00. to drill out the tumbler about 3 to 4 hrs.

So all they would have to do is drill it out? I've read other posts that mention "cutting", is this only if the steering wheel cannot be unlocked?

thanks WRM, I appreciate the posts.

people have different ways of doing the job. i have good luck drilling. i drill around the black cover so all i have to do is replace the tumbler & cover.

Is the "1" position when the steering wheel unlocks?
 

Is the "1" position when the steering wheel unlocks? If so, then I might be able to get it out.

I have the replace tumbler. I tried the new key and it's giving me the same results. Key will turn just enough to unlock the steering wheel.

I'm going to try and make one of those "tools" to remove the tumbler using a paper clip and see if it's being turned enough to remove it.

Yes, ignition position 1 (radio, windows, etc.; no cc) the steering wheel unlocks (as with shifter).

Well, I'm not quite there then. It is just, and I mean just, unlocking the stearing wheel, but I don't get the auxillary functions :(

Looks like a tow to the shop....aaarrrgghh!!!

Well, at least I have the new tumbler ready.