w126 ignition switch replacement

[sixto]

The ignition switch in the SE is starting to stick. I can't find the section in the CD manual that covers ignition switch replacement. I expect it to be in group 54 or 68, but no luck. I also can't find anything 126 specific in the archives. Is the procedure the same as with the 123 or 124 models? Any help would be appreciated.

UPDATE: Found the info in section 46-640 steering wheel lock. I gotta make a tool?

Thanks,
Sixto
91 300SE
81 300SD

[280CEBoy]

.....the tool is fairly simple to make....I forgot the exact diam. of the wire... .6 mm or something like that...simply bend it in a U and insert both ends into the holes....

[downsmith]

You can buy the tool from Performance Products.com. It is part number 58-045. Also get the Ignition lock cover remover (58-046), you will be glad you did. Or you could just call a locksmith for $50.00. Locks on the mercedes are alike.

I had the same problem and had to graphite a few times. Then one day, the key stuck in the START position. What a revoltin' developement! The locksmith had literally "break" the steering lock to get the tumbler out. It was

[sixto]

Whew. The manual talks about a 70-degree chamfer. I'm glad it doesn't have to be very precise.

Sixto
91 300SE
81 300SD

[280CEBoy]

...yeah, the 70 degree chamfer is just to aid in the ends of the wire sliding over the little tabs on the lock cylinder....

[sixto]

With regards to the cover removal tool, the manual suggests that there was a design change for MY90 that greatly simplified the tumbler assembly. There's still the chance that someone dropped an older tumbler in this car :\

Thanks,
Sixto
91 300SE
81 300SD

[JohninFla]

Sixto,

Look under my name, as I have a post on replacing the tumbler on my 1989 560SEL. Some folks posted some good hints, including what size allen wrench to use to slide into the lock to allow you to unscrew the cap. I did not buy the tool, out of ignorance, and managed with a pair of needle nosed pliers. If you choose to do this, you may want to buy a new cap, as it ends up getting some scratches from the pliers that are visible when you are done. Shooting some WD-40 into the tumbler, to lubricate the threads of the cap would also help. Shoot me an e mail or post any questions you might have, I will tell you what I know. From reading your posts in the past, I am betting this will not be one of your most challenging repairs. It really is not such a hard thing to do.

All you need is one of the larger paper clips and straighten it. It fits perfectly in the hole, I have done it hundreds of times because the mb tool always gets lost by somebody. Remove the cover to the switch before you do this and the metal sleeve will unsrew fairly easily. Then have your new one and pretty much reverse the procedure.

[eastthop]

Can I spray liquid wrench up into the lockset to free it up?

[Bruce B]

Sixto, I would get a new one quick, fast, and in a hurry. I experienced the same thing of sticking and then one day I couldn't even turn it from "locked". Good thing I had it at home with a spare car to drive. I rigged a tool from coathanger wire of the right diameter, came out no problem, but you do have to have a slight angle on the ends to slide the cylinder locks away. BTW, I took the whole thing, steering lock assy, out of the dash and did it on my coffee table, after dismantling the ign lock tumbler by tumbler, the main wiring plug on the back of the switch is/was locked in place and would ONLY come unplugged when unlocked. Another theft deterrent item. You will get a new key with the new cylinder after the dealer verifies that you own the car, tag receipt should be enough. Hope this helps you from having the "nightmare" that I had.

[Mike Murrell]

Originally Posted by Bruce B

Sixto, I would get a new one quick, fast, and in a hurry.

Duh.....Sixto's post was made in Nov. 2001. Yah reckon he's fixed it by now?

[sixto]

I sold that car a few years ago. I saw it a couple of months ago so either the new tumbler works or they never shut if off

Sixto
87 300D

[Bruce B]

Thanks guys, I'll look a little closer at the dates, been a while since being online regular, cut me a little slack please, just trying to help

[cdplayer]

Just think of all us who are new to these problems. These old posts really come in handy. I am sure they will be read by many more who, in time, will experience ignition problems.

I, for one, found my repair help at DieselGiant.com. I drive a gasser. But the illustrations helped guide me through the tough spots. Especially the part where I had to push in the pin that secures the locking mechanism to the steering shaft. I used a dental mirror just to see the $#%^ thing.