Yesterday this started. The Key always goes in and out. The column only locks if I pull the key out and the front wheels are near straight.

From reading other articles my current temp plan is to turn wheel hard over before removing key to inhibit steering column locking again. This is hard to remember however when out in public I imagine.

Here is what I have:

1. Key matched doors.
2. I have one brass key and one steel key with MB symbol stamped on it. I have only been using the steel key and it looks pretty good. Is the brass key aftermarket?
3. The ignition tumbler face hasd a big aluminum, can over it
4. The face of of Ign Tumbler has a very tiny hole in it on inner diameter.
5. I don't see how to remove this aluminum cover. I read it is screws on but where are the screws? Does whole cover screw CCW? BTW there is a peculiar GAP around this assy and yesterday I found a rubber gasket broken off and slid down behind tumbler. Does this mean the Ing. Tumbler has been replaced?

This is what I think:
1. My problem is the Steering Lock Mechanism not the ignition tumbler.

I'd like to go ahead with this repair slowly but wanted to ask how to start?

Thanks!

My goal is to disable the steering lock mechanism if it isn't "too hard" but would replace it if feasible and not too expensive. What would u all suggest my next step?

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1982 300SD

Be cautious. I have a thread on here describing a failure on my daugher's 84sd. The locking pin broke off the ignition assembly and dropped into place locking the steering wheel. Luckily it happened at slow speed as I was driving out of a parking space. Not sure if your problem would result in the same situation but if it did, that wheel's not turning until the whole ignition assembly is removed.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

There are lots of threads on how to remove the tumbler assembly. Need to turn the key to position 2, insert a paper clip or tiny jewelers screwdriver to lock down the dog and unscrew the surrounding assembly. Then you'll need to drop the steering column, press down the locking pin and remove the whole assembly. I'd replace the whole ignition assembly myself (minus the electrical part)

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

Kerry,

Thanks.

So this little tiny single hole next to where I put the key in is where I put jewely screwdriver? Key put in is position Zero? and I go 2 CW? I guess the lights on dash will be on correct?

Steve

__________________
1982 300SD

I think so, but don't take it for gospel. There are threads with pictures.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

Here is a write up I did, but for the W123. more or less the same.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/2320185-post16.html

Charlie

__________________
there were three HP ratings on the OM616...

1) Not much power
2) Even less power
3) Not nearly enough power!! 240D w/auto

Anyone that thinks a 240D is slow drives too fast.

80 240D Naturally Exasperated, 4-Spd 388k DD 150mph spedo 3:58 Diff

We are advised to NOT judge ALL Muslims by the actions of a few lunatics, but we are encouraged to judge ALL gun owners by the actions of a few lunatics. Funny how that works

I think the only difference between the 123 and 126 is the 126 has a little plastic trim surround with a rubber boot which has to come off for the whole ignition assembly to come out.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

(Maybe in Australia? My memory's so bad I have to carry around a little card
with my picture and name on it...Wait that's my Driver's License?)

'Has a write up on how he removed that 1Lb. Bolt from the steering locking mechanism.And operates his now Fear Free of "Lockup".

__________________
'84 300SD sold
124.128

The tumbler was crudded up some. I pulled it and sprayed it with brake cleaner then lubed it with 3 in 1 oil. I also noticed key was worn more than my spare key so I am now using the spare key. The snapping action of the column locking mechanism is crisp and sharp acting now. Roy called me and he said get new keys. Thanks Roy. I locked column 35 times and it released easily each time. I think I'm ok.

__________________
1982 300SD

New keys will not fix the problem, replace the lock tumbler ASAP before they key gets jammed or the tumbler won't turn any more!