is it my ignition tumbler or steering lock mech?

[wilburtual]

after searching, i see there are a lot of issues with keys not turning..well add me me to the list! and now about a week after the key for my 81 240D started to intermittently not turn, now my 77 240D is doing it too.. ;(
I also am reading that replacement is far easier if the key still works, rather than the drill it out technique once its stuck.. so im gonna bite the bullet and change em..
but, im a little confused after reading though, and im not sure if i need to replace the ignition/key tumbler or if it is the steering lock mechanism that needs to be changed...
I guess I dont really know what the difference between them is, or what they do, or how to test... all i know is from time to time the key wont turn,, and i have to mess with it for sometime twisting and pounding and jiggling to get it to catch/engage and turn.
any suggestions as to narrow the problem down?

[kerry]

Typically it's the lock tumbler not the ignition mechanism itself.

[TnBob]

With the title in your name, any MB shop with get a key that matches your existing lock setup too.

[wilburtual]

i only have 1 key for the car, and it is really worn down, so much so that 2 locksmiths wouldnt even try to make a copy for me, saying it was too worn to copy.
i am wondering if i should try to just order a new key from the dealer for $30 and see if it is just a worn key,, rather than ordering and installing a whole new tumbler too?? although if it is the tumbler too, then i guess I have a $30 spare key

[Biodiesel300TD]

If you're key is worn so much that a locksmith won't copy it, I'd say that's your problem. I'd get a new key from the dealer. You'll need the VIN and proof of ownership.

[Ether]

Call the Classic Center and talk to Tom Hanson. He can fix you up.

[Johnt49]

If you turn the key all the way to off but don't remove it can you turn it on again? If you can, it's the steering column lock assy. If it won't turn, it's the lock cylinder. Either way do yourself a favor and get it removed ASAP. You could be one turn away from having to drill it out.

[charmalu]

It seem there isn`t the parts for the older W123`s steering lock assy. the later style Steering lock assy. need to be used.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/305580-new-style-ignition-tumbler-old-style-240d.html

Charlie

[wilburtual]

thanks guys,
well.. now i cant get it to turn at all ;( !!! so, im gonna get a new key from the dealer and hope hope hope it is just a worn out key...!!!!

[pgringo]

If you get the new key & it still won't turn, do the "hold the key to a palm sander while turning" trick to get it turned to swap out the cylinder. It worked for me.

[wilburtual]

Got the new key from the dealer today...... and........ its works great!! that was for sure the problem, and after comparing the old an new key, its quite obvious so disaster averted!! after looking at my other 1977 240D key, i'm gonna go order one for him too, seems like $30 well spent!
take a look at the old and new, at first glance it looks like a totally different key !

[ah-kay]

Originally Posted by wilburtual

Got the new key from the dealer today...... and........ its works great!! that was for sure the problem, and after comparing the old an new key, its quite obvious so disaster averted!! after looking at my other 1977 240D key, i'm gonna go order one for him too, seems like $30 well spent!
take a look at the old and new, at first glance it looks like a totally different key !

I am surprised that the old key actually WORK?

[wilburtual]

yeah right? it never opened the trunk lock and i thought the lock was busted, but the new key works like a charm on that one too
if anyone else is having trouble with your ignition turning, i'd recommend checking the key first! i was all set to order replacement tumbler, etc but this was waaaaay easier