300TD - Post Replacement Ignition Lock Problem
 

Have just recently gone thru the whole tumbler replacement routine (45 min key jiggle sessions then temp replacement with 'shop' lock followed by permanent replacement tumbler) with my 82-300TD.
Everything was fine for about 2 months and then it started to snag again (with either original or barely used spare key). I took it back to the shop and of course it wouldn't jam on demand and the mech is very gently saying 'I can't fix what ain't broke'. A couple of days later it goes into Christine mode and jams again briefly. I'm planning on going back and ask them to humor me and pop out the tumbler and reinstall just to make sure it's seated properly. However, going over the numerous threads on this issue I'm still a little unclear on what role the steering lock might play in a jamming scenario. Can it be examined for wear when the tumbler is removed or is it totally separate procedure? Would certainly appreciate any further suggestions or recommendations. Thx.

Go to the following link and take a good look at the second and third pictures down. If the inside of your steering lock looks like this (after you remove the tumbler) then you need to replace the steering lock too.

opps - here is the link

http://12.96.14.5/engatwork.htm

Jim, many thx for the reply and pics. Right now I'm thinking that there are really only two likely points of failure - the tumbler itself and/or the steering-lock. (have assumed the Park/Neutral starting lock-out is a function of the ignition switch and doesn't play a role here). Am leaning toward replacing the steering lock as the most promising sure cure. Any suggestions as to other possible contributors to the jamming? Thx