...it's just much easier to remove the ignition with cap and tumbler off. Then you can repair or replace the electric switch portion per dieselnutnj's post. Of course, you have to unscrew the clamp on the steering lock to extract the housing too.

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1999 E320 4matic really nice Wagon 135k
1981 300TD loud, rattling family car 180k (TGI sold!)
1985 500SEL gas guzzler 220k (sold)
1978 300D my first Turtlediesel (sold)437k