My 1980 300SD ignition is starting to show signs of locking up and I would like to modify it so that it starts with the key, but would also start with a screwdriver like tool. (call me cheap, I resemble that remark) I have got the tumble assembly out and would like to remove the individual tumblers to render the "lock" mechanism useless. I do not know how the tumbler assembly comes apart and I do not want to ruin the housing.

Any knowledge out ther past removing the tumbler assembly? Oh, and thanks to all those who have gotten me this far.

I re-keyed mine so that the door key worked with the replacement tumbler (85 300D). There is a small pin in the side of the silver front on the tumbler. If you drive this pin in with a small punch the face will come off and the cylinder holding the pins will pull out (don't lose the pin). You can then take them all out if you want. If you want to keep use of the key you can put your key in and see which pins are sitting too high, then sand them down a little. Slide everything back together, put the face back on and drive the pin back in. Or, if you want to send me $25, I'll send you the replacement tumbler I used for a week while I figured out how to re-key the one in my car... its practically brand new.

ben

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1985 300D 170k

Get back to work, Noel.

SteveM.

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'93 190E/D 2.5 Turbodiesel 5-speed (daily driver)
'87 190D 2.5 Turbo rustbucket - parts car
'84 Dodge Rampage diesel - Land Speed Record Holder
'13 Ram 2500 Diesel
'05 Toyota 4Runner

I have a bad tumbler, 1981 240D
Kept the key in for 2 weeks.
Per instructions on this board I tried a large paper clip to no avail, wouldn't completely depress spring in tumbler.
Took a small finishing nail and ground it down so it just barely fits in the hole on the new tumbler.
Nail is now 55/1000 as opposed to large paper clip at 40/1000
Works perfect on the new tumbler, hopefully OK Saturday on the old tumbler.

I'm guessing piano wire would have been easier if I knew the size.

I used a cheap metal coat hanger that had its ends modified to 45 degrees. Worked like a charm

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'98 E300 DT
'87 190D 2.5 turbo RIP
'92 S500 Sold
'03 3.2TL-S A-Spec

My coat hangers were all plastic, wouldn't fit in the hole.