Stranded, 100 degrees, in a parking lot, key will not turn ignition. Any suggestions to get me on the road? 1981 Mercedes 240 D 144k miles, never had this problem before. Recently had new key made, but I'm using the original Mercedes key. All opinions appreciated, any suggestions will help.

__________________
81' 240d 4 spd 140k on the clock

Do you mean that the key will not turn at all? Or that the engine will not turn over? If the key will not turn at all, the steering may have locked up. You can try the usual turning the steering wheel back and forth while trying the key. On one occasion I have had to go so far as to have someone rock the car back and forth from the outside while I tried to turn the steering wheel and key at the same time. Not my car, but it did work.

__________________
'95 E300D ("Tank") - 231,000 miles
'79 240D ("Biscuit") - 197,250 miles (Sold)
'83 240D ("Ding-Ding") - 217,000 miles (Death by deer)
______________________________________

"Back off, man. I’m a scientist” ~ Peter Venkman

Step one: use the new key.

Since that didn't work for me, I sawed mine off and banged it against a table a few times, then it worked once (took another several tries to make it work again). Too bad it was after I had sawed it off. Try a hammer or something (not on the key, on the ignition housing from behind).

If you do get it working I would take it apart (very easy when the key actually turns) and see if the tumblers are worn. You just stick the key in the cylinder after you've removed and see if any of the tumblers are still sticking out the sides. If they are I'd suggest getting a new tumbler.

Key will not click to the ignition start position and yes the steering lock is locked but moves a bit - does not seem to be jammed up . I'll try the rockin
trick.

The car will run fine if I can get the key into the start position... I'll try to post again - still stranded

__________________
81' 240d 4 spd 140k on the clock

You may have luck with vibrating the key with something like a vibrating orbital sander with no sand paper on it or other vibrating device while turning the key. Locksmiths use a picking gun which vibrates. If you do get it to turn don't turn the vehicle off, disconnect the battery and use the stop lever.Don't count on this working twice!! Until you have it safe home and can review the lock cylinder replacement threads.Easy if the key is turned , very hard if you can't move it. Good luck

__________________
It's always something simple
91 300D 603.960 (from japan) 194K
92 Toyota Diesel Landcruiser HDJ81-t 116K
02 Golf TDI new head courtesy of PO
87 300D
97 BMW 525 TDS Wagon 5spd
bunch of Onan and other diesel generators

Find a stout paper clip and have that ready. Don't ignore sticking ignition keys on these cars.

There are various tips to get a key to turn, most of them no good to someone stuck in a hot parking lot. Some spray lube, jiggling, pushing or slight pulling along the axis of the key while trying to turn may help.


If you end up going the locksmith route, be cautious, others have had the locksmith professionally break the key off. You may want to ask if he has a drilling template tool. I don't know what your internet access is from the parking lot, but here:

http://www.lockmasters.com/lkmpdfs/AprilMay08.pdf

Your ignition switch MAY be failing. Once you're out of the heat and somewhere where you can do some maintenance, you'll want to remove that switch. The paper clip fits in the small hole when the key is in the "I" position. It releases a catch that lets you unscrew the black collar and replace the switch. Once you've got the key to the "I" position (compared to 0 and II), try not to remove it until you've released the collar.

If the key gets stuck or you can't it to turn, you'll need to do some work.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=260981&highlight=key

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=263295

Had the same issue (ig lock is on it's last legs) Ended up turning the key over 180 degrees and backing it out of the lock SLIGHTLY" and was able to work it intot he run position....of note it happened right after I made two keys and tested them! Maybe the ol' ignition don't like new keys

I can't resist.....
"You lose your key you get no newkie...."

__________________
Chris Brown
"OC", So-Cal
1979 240D, 122K, 4spd, Colorado Biege w/Tobacco, Pwr Roof, AC, Cruise, Becker Corona - SOLD
Past Benzos: 71 250 • 83 240D • 84 190E • 04 C240 • 11 GLK350 • 13 c250 Coupe
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/...ine=1276896801

going to get it towed to my home...

where do you suggest I get a new cylinder FAST and inexpensive?

i called MB and they wanted well over a $100

seen some online for $17-$25... are they ok?

__________________
81' 240d 4 spd 140k on the clock

If Lock Tubler is not turning it may be the Tumbler itself causing the problem (You need to be able to turn the Tumbler so that it can be removed); meaning a new key may not help.
From what I have read raplacing a non-turning Lock Tumbler is tedious and time consuming.
To this end you need to find another ride to work or use of some vacation time.

I have read on more than one post that the Aftermarket Lock Tumbles do not last long. One poster said his laster 1-1/2 years.

__________________
84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

New problem...posting from I pad in the parking lot

Key cylinder is hot ..physically hot to touch

Just unhooked the battery......more drama

Opinions please....... Battery was almost dead btw

Thx

__________________
81' 240d 4 spd 140k on the clock

Everything is hot here today...

Where in the great state of Utah R U?

__________________
1979 240D, 4spd manual, Power Sunroof, manual windows, 147k miles, Pastel gray/Black MB Tex.
1991 300D 2.5 - Smokes like it's on Crack!

Probably not what you want to hear, but I recommend the dealer @ $100. It shouldn't be "well over" but YMMV. For that money you get a tumbler that matches your other keys - it'll be made just for your VIN - and another key. But I hate multiple keys, so I'm willing to pay to have one for the locks and the ignition.

You can order a non-custom set from Phil, here on the site. Don't know about price, but he's expedited shipping to me in the past for other stuff.

Can't offer help on the hot switch though. Probably time to look under the dash.

Only took 1 day for a tumbler and key from the dealer. Was just under $100 and you get a tumbler and a key. VIN and registration needed.

__________________
1985 300D Turbo
"Evolution is God's way of giving upgrades" Francis Collins

This might help you!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2kAIA2-sZ8