How Do I Drill Out Ignition? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

meshale_plank · #1 12-01-2004, 04:05 PM

PLEASE please someone tell me how in the world to drill out the ignition to a 1983 380 SEL? I have broken three titanium bits trying, what do they make that steel out of?? I have to replace my ignition assembly, the key broke off in the ignition in position zero so there is now way I can get it into position 1 or 2 so that the wiring cluster will come unplugged and the assembly will come off the steering wheel. From everything I have read and researched the key has to be in position 1 or2 for that to happen so I am up a creek. I have to drill and this ignition is insane!
ANY help, or success stories welcome!!

Thanks,
Meshale

#2 12-01-2004, 04:54 PM

Why, just ask any car thief!!! LOL...

Couldn't resist! Maybe it can be explained in a MB service repair manual available in CD, or maybe Haynes..

BB

Gilly · #3 12-01-2004, 06:19 PM

As you mentioned, to remove the steering wheel lock from the steering column requires the ignition to go into position 2. This allows a small hardened button to push in so the lock can be removed.
It sounds like probably the only hope now is to work on the entire steering jacket removed, which isn't all that tough. Then you have a few options; You can heat the small button up red-hot with a torch and let it cool slowly, which will remove the metals "temper" to allow it to be drilled out, or I usually just pry back on the steering jacket (with the clamp removed) and that'll allow the steering lock to be withdrawn from the jacket tube. The you'll just need to install a new lock and cylinder.
Gilly

jbaj007 · #4 12-01-2004, 07:56 PM

May help some: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=58636&highlight=diamond

meshale_plank · #5 12-03-2004, 10:16 AM

Hi,
THANK YOU for the help, I have a couple q's about the process that I am not sure how to adjust for and am not sure I completely understand.

for jbaj007: This part of the instructions:.."As per Steve Brotherton, cut the scews for the electrical part of the switch with a carbide disc (3 screws) at the junction of the steering lock/tumbler assy. and the electrical switch portion(aluminum)in the back. It will still be functional, just with slices in the retaining "humps".
.. What I did was push the locking bolt into the assy. with a few choice hammer blows and Viola!...the key worked. The offending pawl in the lock assy. had been released.
..Either way release electrical plug, using screwdriver to get position #2 on the electrical switch if you had to cut, or your key, if the "innards" freed up with the hammer.
..Remove the tumbler at this point if you can rotate key."

Since there is no way my key is turning anywhere (broke off) how should I go about this part? If I used the locking bolt/hammer method, I still will have no way to turn the key since it is broke, so is the Steve Brotherton method my only option here and is it going to work with the key broke off in there?

And one last thing, once I get the electrical plug out will I be able to get the tumbler off so I only have to replace it or am I going to need to replace the entire assembly?

I think I can handle this, I am an insane DIYer. I have rewired and installed all kinds of home appliances and managed to fix an entire air conditioning unit in a ford contour that I had been told was going to have to be replaced and would cost 4-500 bucks. I did it myself for about 30.00, so I am PRAYING I can do this because from what I have read this is going to cost a fortune if I have to take it in.

All the help is MUCHO appriciated!!!! I love this old Benz and although it is pretty as a lawn ornament, I much prefer to actually drive it!

Thanks,
Meshale

JamesStein · #6 12-03-2004, 10:33 AM

Once you get the assembly out of the steering column and the wiring harness off. Just get a whole new or used assembly.