Ignition Cylinder, Switch, or Housing?

[waylifeshouldbe]

Or all three? I'm interested in your opinion. Should I just replace the switch which I suspect, as have others here, to be the next probable cause of my occassional stumble/stall issue? Or since I'm "in there", replace the housing and cylinder as well? My vehicle is an 88' 560 SEL. Aside from the stumble/stall issue (two years now!), I noticed twice over the last two months that I had to manually turn the key left due to the starter staying engaged after release of the key. Additionally, the radio stayed on yesterday after the ignition was turned off and the key removed.

Thanks ahead of time for your opinions. I bought the 88 560SEL because of Mercedes' engineering but I keep the car because of the incredible expertise of the members of MercedesShop! Thank You!

[mbdoc]

The electrical portion of the ignition switch is the only part that can cause stalling.

IF you are having problems TURNING the key then replace ALL of the pieces.

[waylifeshouldbe]

Thanks MB DOC -

Are you giving weight to my report that the ignition (key) had to be manually turned to the left to disengage the starter and/or that the radio stayed on after the ignition was turmed off and the key removed? If I am reading your reply correctly, you are suggesting replacing all three components - yes?

Thanks again for your insight.

[SatRoc]

What M.B. Doc says is correct. The electrical swithch is behind the lock itself. It is spring loaded to return to ON when the key is released after starting the vehicle. The radio staying on, after shutting off the ignition, tells you that there is a short in the switch. Replace the switch, behind the lock, and all will be well!

[waylifeshouldbe]

Thanks SatRoc and MBDOC. I'll order the switch today. Crossing fingers that this cures my intermittant stall issue.

[andmoon]

You can replace that portion w/out total removal of the ignition switch.

[VBC]

Hey Guys, I've Asked Elsewhere Here, But Told Take To Mb Shop. Can You Tell Me (diagrams Helpful) How To Remove The Ignition Cylinder For Replacement? Want To Give Replacing It Ourselves A Shot Before Towing It. Any Help Is Appreciated, Thanks!