I have an intermittent problem turning the 'ignition' switch to start;
for 10 to 20 starts works fine, glides like silk (lubed everything with dry silicone).
Then I may have to attempt to turn it 50 times before it will go.
Often there is the feeling of moving parts as it finally turns.

It is not the tumbler, have replaced it twice; the last from a dealer.
I have worn the paint off the hardened steel collar removing the tumbler so many times.

Is it the switch ?
Anyone had a problem with the switch mechanism ?
A possible 'fix' w/o having to remove ?
If it has to come out can it be done from below or does the dash have to be removed first ?

Could be the bolt and pawl of the steering column lock. They can get stiff and prevent the key from turning. If it is, here's my saga. But since you can turn the key, you can skip the brutal part at the beginning.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=58636&highlight=steering+lock+pawl

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The Golden Rule

1984 300SD (bought new, sold it in 1988, bought it back 13 yrs. later)