w123 ignition keyswitch -- no climate control
 

I noticed last week on my '85 300d that a couple of times after startup the blower motor wasn't working (except on defrost). However, if I turned the key back to the off position then restarted, it worked.

This morning the blower will only run if I select defrost. When I gently move the key a bit with the engine running, I get a loud clicking from inside the dash and once in a while the blower engages for a split sec.

Am I correct in thinking I need a new keyswitch assembly?

Thanks

it sounds like it to me.
the 123 switch is FUN to get to...

I spent more than an hour fighting with the alternator bolts on Saturday.

Right now anything looks easier than that.

Thanks

Hmm...
I hear the 85 alternator is quite a chore...

Not at all. Assuming you have pixie fingers with built-in air ratchets with shop air pressure.

I was an hour on it. I gave up (my back did anyway). Went and got neighbour with small hands. He tried for half an hour. Then we got his 20-year old son. He finally got it loose. Time: 2.5 hrs.

I wasn't even doing the effing alt. I was only trying to loosen it to do the water pump. :eek:

Someone on http://ozbenz.net/ is having a similar problem.

Between the Key Tumbler and the Ignition Switch is your Steering Colum Lock.
The Steering Colum Lock is that part that has that Spring Tension you turn the Key against and pushes the Key back.

So is it the Ignition Switch or the Steering Colum Lock or a combination of both?
I posted some pics showing the parts of the Steering Colum Lock that were broken on the other Forum.

OZBENZ - Australian & New Zealand Mercedes-Benz Forums • View topic - Blower fan won't operate with engine running

Where did you post the photos? That link goes to the Aus forum but I cannot see the pics as I am not a member. I don't see a gallery for you on this site....

I think my problem is a bit different. I wrote the initial post after first having the problem while driving into work this morning.

Later I tried fiddling with it on the way home from work, and discovered that if I:

- use my other ignition key, AND
- nudge it clockwise a bit once the car is running, AND
- first select defrost, then one of the AC settings, THEN
- my fan works in the two AC modes, BUT
- still not on the economy setting.

The switch feels completely normal in operation.