126 Ignition Cylinder (Tumbler) replacement question - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Theurig · #1 04-08-2004, 10:27 PM

Hello folks,
here is my question I have read a few posts about replacing the ignition tumbler, I would just like to confirm something that pertains to the 126.

1. So I should turn the key to the No 1 positon

2. The tiny hole close to about 1or 2 o'clock if my memory serves me right is where I should put the the end of of the coat hanger at 70 degrees.

3. The tumbler should pop right out or what??

I believe the 124 model has 2 holes to put the coat hanger into I have only seen one small one on my car when the key is at no 1.

Could someone please confirm this for me.

MB STARS · #2 04-08-2004, 11:15 PM

If you have only one hole use a pin push in and then unscrew the black tumbler cover at the same time until tumbler come out.

Theurig · #3 04-08-2004, 11:21 PM

thanks for your response!! I'd like to ask though where is the screw on the black cover ?? one more dumb question, a push pin is the little pins with the sometimes coloured tips that are sometimes used to pin stuff on noticeboards etc right?? I just want to make sure before I use the wrong thing and encounter problems like someone who I read used a push pin.

MB STARS · #4 04-08-2004, 11:36 PM

The black ring cover the tumbler after you push a pin (something like a paper clip)in to the hole (ignition must in No 1 postion) unscrew the black ring cover. by turning it counterclockwise.

Theurig · #5 04-08-2004, 11:40 PM

thanks Mb stars really appreciate you and all other benz tech sharing your expertise with us.

thanks again. I am ordering the part this weekend.

greenacres2 · #6 04-09-2004, 06:32 AM

A 1.5mm hex key (allen wrench) works well for inserting into the hole, and is rigid enough to work well. There is a steering lock removal tool (about $20) that is made to facilitate the unscrewing of the cover with no scratching--and makes the job much easier than trying to use large needle nosed pliers to get a grip on the cover. One of those rarely used tools that is great to have once every two or three years.

Ferdman · #7 04-09-2004, 08:02 AM

Theurig, the release wire size for the 124 cars is 2mm diameter. When bent into a U-shape I'd estimate that each side of the U is 2 1/2" long so I doubt that a push pin will work. On the 124 cars the black barrel slips over the cylinder lock and comes out as a unit when the 2 release points are pushed simultaneously ... no need to unscrew the barrel. Apparently the 126 design and the 124 design differ.

Theurig · #8 04-12-2004, 08:19 PM

Well I got the part today and immediately attempted to change it. I put a paper clip into the hole when the key was in No 1, and tried to turn the cover counter clockwise by hand but it would not budge. So I just logged on and read the updated post. So I do need to a pair of pliers to turn the cover. I looked at the new part to try and comprehend the way the cylinder goes in. I pushed the pin and and it registered fine on the new part , so I believe I am using the right tool. So I guess I should use pair of pliers then right??

greenacres2 · #9 04-12-2004, 11:00 PM

I used long needle nosed pliers. They will scratch the housing, but they work. I ended up buying the removal tool, taking the housing back out and painting it.

Theurig · #10 04-22-2004, 08:05 PM

I didn't have the right tools to do it. So I took it to my tech and he did for me. The old tumbler came out in 2 pieces!! and the key got stuck for a few moments before I went to his shop. Basically if your key is misbehaving somewhat, those are warning signs that it bout time you change or pay some Big $$$ once it gets stuck.