My 380sl ignition key tumblers have fallen, and the key will not go in. I was told that a new cylinder must be ordered by vin # and will cost $500, is this something I can do. I am rather handy, have restored several older cars. Can also work on and replace car stereos, should I attempt? Any help greatly appreciated.

You can probably do the job. I just looked it up on CD and it's pull the steering wheel, pull out the instrument pod, and remove the lock.

To save some money, you might try a recycler (Sun City, TMC, Potomac German Auto, etc) for a used lock if you can live with a separate key for the ignition.

If you want the procedure off the CD, send me an email at ctaylor738@aol.com.

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Chuck Taylor
Falls Church VA
'66 200, '66 230SL, '96 SL500. Sold: '81 380SL, '86 300E, '72 250C, '95 C220, 3 '84 280SL's '90 420SEL, '72 280SE, '73 280C, '78 280SE, '70 280SL, '77 450SL, '85 380SL, '87 560SL, '85 380SL, '72 350SL, '96 S500 Coupe