Ignition tumbler/key lock questions
 

So I FINALLY got the key to turn in my 240D after a lot of wiggling and finessing.

I followed the service manual instructions and removed the black collar and got my locking cylinder out.

Two Questions:

1. Strangely, with the cylinder out, it is EASY to turn the key in the lock. Does not catch nearly as badly. It seems the inability to rotate the key has to do with some slop in the locking cylinder.

The whole assembly seems very loose. I do not think it is supposed to be like that.

Is it possible though that the key not turning had something to do with something else further down the line in the whole ignition/steering lock assembly?


2. If I am not worried about someone stealing my car, with the lock out, can I just turn the car on with a screwdriver or something now?

I notice when I look down the insides without the lock in there, it looks like there is simply a part that rotates when the key turns the lock. Is it as simple as manually turning it with a screwdriver or other device?

Also, if I were to do that and drive it that way, does that mean the steering lock is disabled?

Thanks

You can turn it with a screw driver. Yes steering lock is disabled. Try washing the tumbler with key in it with WD40 till no more gunk comes out followed by hot water and lots of dish detergent. Your key should work again. The tumbler is suppose to be loose like that.

Thanks

I used a file that has an end about the same size as the slot in there, and it worked well. I just make sure no one sees me shut off my car with a file when I get to my destination. :D

Also, is the reason the lock gets stuck entirely having to do with gunk?

I am soaking it in WD40 right now, and I do see a cloud of stuff in there.

Replace the lockset, take your title to the MB dealership and they will make you a new one which will also come with a new key that will match all your locks and you old key will still work in it. If you are a MBCA member you'll get a 10-20% discount.
If you think the steering lock is bad also, it only engages when your steering wheel is centered, so, cut your wheels hard to one side or the other when you park and before you shut off the motor ane the lock won't engage.

Any decent locksmith will match your new ignition to your old key. Last time I had it done it cost me $20 for a Volvo.

I didn't know they only locked when in the straight position. :confused: But that sounds about right. Mine is in that position, and it's locked (stuck). If this darn heat would break, I'd get out there and fix it. What's the procedure to do away with the locking mechanism when I get the key to turn out of that position?

If the tumbler has high miles, it's likely a combination of wear and gunk. Is the key working in the tumbler after cleaning?

Replace the steering lock assembly.

I was using a flat file to turn mine on and off as well. I was waiting for Mercedes to get my new tumbler in.
When I got the tumbler and new key all worked well for about a day. Now I find it sticking again.

Inside the assembly there are two more locks. One locks the barrel from turning without the key (the triangle looking one you can see ) .
The other is deeper in the mechanism. This is a small spring loaded pin that is engaged when the steering lock cam releases the rod into the column.
If the rod doesn't enter the column the pin will not engage into lock mode. (the reason for turning the wheel all the way) .
Once this pin engages it locks the rod preventing it from being pushed back into the assembly.
To reset the key has to turn and the pin rides up a slope this disengages the steering rod. I have found the sloped portion gets worn bad . This causes the pin to mushroom out the hole its in and start binding up.

The file will work for now but if that pin gets stuck you will have to grind the locking pin to remove the assembly.

The same has happened on the 82. New tumbler and key worked a few days and is now hanging up. I noticed after pulling the old tumbler that the little spring loaded rampy piece inside the lock mech was hanging up intermittently. I cleaned it best I could in place but it apparently is worn enough that it still will jam.
I told my daughter that when she shuts off the car to avoid moving the steering wheel straight to keep the lock from engaging.
She leaves for travel in November hopefully it will last till then.

chetwesley-
I got mine to work last night. I used the orbital sander and finally just gave it a hard turn (with vice grips attached at the base of the key bar) and it turned out of the lock position. Good luck with yours. Mine just took some force. Lee

If you key is stuck in the ignition and the column is locked, one simple fix to try is jack up one front wheel and have someone rock the wheel forward and back while you try to free the key.

After reading this thread I made a pictorial of whats hanging up for every one and a quick fix.

Here you go.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=283114