ignition switch issue? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

BillyT · #1 05-09-2012, 11:22 PM

ok..so recently turned the key and couldn't get past the glow plug position on the ignition and jumped the car for a few days using the contacts under the hood. I assumed the tumbler was worn and went replace using the paperclip at the Acc position and this didn't do the trick. I pulled the whole ignition out this time to find this part worn. Is this available new/used without having to replace the whole assembly?

thanks for the help.

The Gears · #2 05-09-2012, 11:37 PM

You can get a new tumbler and two keys but won't match the door set. But the problem may be the wheel lock parts as they do wear and don't want to move back to let the key turn all the way to start. I had to drill mine and replace the assembly.

Jeremy5848 · #3 05-10-2012, 12:00 AM

It all depends on what kind of a car you've got. Give us a hint, please.

BillyT · #4 05-10-2012, 12:08 AM

btw....84 300td. thanks for the help.....

Jeremy5848 · #5 05-10-2012, 12:31 AM

I don't recognize that part, perhaps someone else will. From your description, the problem may be in the anti-repeat mechanism, which requires turning the switch all the way off before trying again to start the car. There is a spring-loaded detent that can break or come loose and jam. It's also possible to have a failure inside the switch itself.

The tumbler can be ordered from your dealer to match your existing keys. The dealer will need the VIN and proof of ownership. About $100. Yours is probably OK -- if it turns at all, it's good.

The switch can be taken apart and repaired but I suspect the anti-repeat mechanism must be replaced. Don't know if that's a separably available part but EPC will have the parts breakdown and you can see what is available.

Jeremy

BillyT · #6 05-10-2012, 01:23 PM

any other ideas? thanks

Ether · #7 05-10-2012, 02:04 PM

Call the MB Classic Center. If your model is old enough (I think it is) they can hook you up with a new tumbler and key that matches all your locks for considerably less than the 100 bucks mentioned above.

jay_bob · #8 05-10-2012, 06:58 PM

Just called the Classic Center. Excellent service. E-mailed them the request and exchanged a few e-mails with a very helpful representative.

If anyone else wants to do this make sure you ask for the coded cylinder. The part in EPC is the generic cylinder that does not match your doors.

They want proof of ownership so I e-mailed him a scan of my drivers license and state registration card that had the VIN on it, and followed up with a call to give him my cc number.

My stealer in town wanted twice the price and they insisted they had to do the install. No thanks, I think I can figure out how to unbend a paper clip. Actually I've heard the ground wire out of a piece of #12 Romex works best.

BillyT · #9 05-11-2012, 01:04 AM

I don't think I need the tumbler. I replaced that first and then dug in deeper and found that the part that the tumbler connects into which is inside the ignition assembly is broken on the end ( as seen in my pic in the original post.) What I'm asking is if this part is available by itself or do I have to replace the whole ignition assembly at $250 or whatever napa quoted me? Thanks!

TnBob · #10 05-11-2012, 01:30 AM

Any pick a part yard will save you a lot of money.

Jeremy5848 · #11 05-11-2012, 12:51 PM

You can change just the switch. New ones (gen-u-wine Mercedes) are available on-line for $40 -- don't let a place like NAPA screw you over.

A used one from a junkyard is an inexpensive option, just remember to get a diesel switch -- gassers don't have a "preglow" position. Also remember that the switch will be difficult to remove without the key for the junkyard car.

Jeremy