key tumbler removal - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

DJRACER · #1 05-09-2006, 05:49 PM

I have a 1987 300 sdl and need to replace the ignition lock cylinder.The key wont turn unless you play with it and maybe it will turn and maybe not.The question i have, has anyone ever replaced one and can you get it out by pulling the instrument cluster out or do you have to pull the dash out to get to it Any help would be great. Thanks

TX76513 · #2 05-09-2006, 05:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DJRACER

I have a 1987 300 sdl and need to replace the ignition lock cylinder.The key wont turn unless you play with it and maybe it will turn and maybe not.The question i have, has anyone ever replaced one and can you get it out by pulling the instrument cluster out or do you have to pull the dash out to get to it Any help would be great. Thanks

You are getting a warning sign from your car - do not procrastinate on this repair. If it goes south in the locked position its a real PIA to replace.

Read this thread all the way through http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=122959

Brian Carlton · #3 05-09-2006, 06:05 PM

I was quite successful in using a jewelers screwdriver. You can lever the screwdriver and easily press the locking pawl back into position while you rotate the collar.

Once you get the hang of it, it's a 20 minute repair.

You must go to the dealer with your title and/or registration and order a new cylinder that matches the vehicle.

As mentioned, don't delay. If it gets to the point where you can't turn the key, you're looking at a $400. repair bill.......or a whole lot of time.......your choice.

TX76513 · #4 05-09-2006, 06:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian Carlton

.

Once you get the hang of it, it's a 20 minute repair.

.

Yes, if I ever have to do it again

Brian Carlton · #5 05-09-2006, 06:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TX76513

Yes, if I ever have to do it again

........well, I can qualify that a bit.

It's a 20 minute repair since you struggled with it and gave me all the tips.

Panzermann · #6 05-09-2006, 06:09 PM

Do it now and you won't be saying language your mother told you not to later. Pretty easy repair at this point, real PITA when your key gets jammed.

Maroon 300D · #7 05-09-2006, 06:11 PM

If your car is like mine, and I suspect it is, you can do it without pulling the cluster or the dash.

When I changed mine, I was having trouble turning the cylinder after I'd depressed the spring. It turned out the dash was kind of resting on it so I had to pull up a bit. So you might want to look out for that.

Panzermann · #8 05-09-2006, 06:24 PM

When I bought a new coded tumobler from the dealer, they were willing to help me install it free.

BillA · #9 05-10-2006, 08:33 AM

I've removed the tumbler so many times the paint is worn off the steel collar.
First was an aftermarket $32 unit which worked initially and shortly became difficult.
Next was a keyed MB dealer unit which shortly became difficult as well.
After each disassembly it will turn w/o problems 15 or 20 times, then starts to require many attempts to turn. When it does so one can sometimes 'feel' parts moving whereas the tumbler itself turns cleanly.

Anyone know anything about the switch the tumbler is turning ? ('84 300SD)

Bill

wheelguru · #10 05-10-2006, 11:55 AM

As long as you can still turn the key, you don't need to remove the dash or anything except the tumbler. If it gets to the point where you can't turn the key, you are pretty screwed, I believe you will have to drill it out. When mine stuck, I ordered a new tumbler and called a locksmith. He hosed the tumber out with triflow and got the key to turn. Once the key is turned to the accessory position, you can take a paperclip and stick it into the small hole at the edge of the cylinder. The paperclip will trip a latch inside the tumbler mechanism and let you remove the entire tumbler.
If you can't turn the key, you cannot release the tumbler, and then I think you are in trouble.
I think a new tumbler and key were about $30 from fastlane. The locksmith nicked me $100 and left the car smelling of cigarette smoke. Fix it while you can.

DJRACER · #11 05-12-2006, 04:54 PM

Well it happened,i cant turn the switch at all.Can i drill the switch while it is in the car or do i have to pull the whole thing out of dash? Also do i drill down the middle of the switch? Isnt life fun.

Brian Carlton · #12 05-12-2006, 05:02 PM

Keep playing with it. Vibrate it.......tap it........do whatever you have to do.......get it to turn one more time.

Sometimes the tension on the steering wheel will hold it back. Turn the wheel slightly to unload the lock.

Disconnect the battery, park the vehicle, and go buy another lock cylinder.

The alternative is unbelievably painful.

BillA · #13 05-12-2006, 05:03 PM

is your key worn ?
often a new key will enable the tumbler to turn

the car drives fine w/o a tumbler, use a screwdriver to depress and turn the switch assy