Need advice soon! I have a 1991 300CE, 114k. The tumbler was loose and sloppy so I checked the archives. After reading threads on the dreaded tight/locked tumbler, I figured I'd better switch it out. I ordered a new tumbler from Mercedes yesterday and I should have it in a few days. Sure enough, when I turned off the car today, the key would not turn back completely to the left and I could not remove it. I figured, get the tumbler out now while I could still get to position "1". I removed the tumbler and it came out in two pieces. The upper collar broke off from the main cylinder. It looked like it had been broken for awhile, but in a way where the key could still start the engine. I don't want to put the tumbler back in and besides I think I lost one of the springs for one of the tumbler tabs. My question, is it alright to turn the car on and off with, say, a big screwdriver for the next few days?

TIA,

glenmore
1991 300CE

yes you can use a screwdriver, but use a small one that fits in one of the small slots.

Be aware that using a screwdriver to start/stop your car might place you under scrutiny of your local constabulary .

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.

Mike, how funny! I can see it now:

“Well, you see,......Officer, I read this cool article on the Internet that showed me how to take apart the ignition in a Mercedes....

“....I mean in my Mercedes....

“Get out of the car? Why, yes officer, sir. And, yes sir, of course I will leave my hands in plain site...

__________________
...Tracy

'00 ML320 "Casper"
'92 400E "Stella"