Frustrated w/ignition tumbler RR 86 300E
 

I did a search and read about removing and replacing an ignition tumbler on my 1986 300E.

Last night I got stuck at the mall for about 1/2hr trying to turn the key. After numerous tries shaking the key, it finally gave in and started. I made it home and I left the key in the ignition so that I could remove and replace the ignition tumbler as suggested by the archive post on this forum

I made a "special tool" with a bicycle wheel spoke. I stuck into the 2 holes with the key in the #1 position, I would then simutaneously pull on the key attempting to get the whole assembly out. I've been at it for 3hrs and I'm ready to get a hammer an pound the !@#$ out of car. What am I doing wrong?

Can someone who has already done it please walk me through this? It's driving me crazy. I know it shouldn't be that hard according to the archived post. Someone please guide me in the right direction.


jrmd01@yahoo.com

UPDATE
 

O.K. after trying a smaller diameter wire and making sure the tips had a 70 dgree angle, I finally got the ignition tumbler assembly out. It took me 4 hours, but my persistence paid off. I'd hate to think about what the dealers would have charged me.

Now I need help on finding an inexpensive replacement. I called the Mercedes dealers here in Hawaii and they are charging $100.80 It'll fit my orginal key. It'll take about a week for me to get it.

In the archieved post, members in this forum have been getting them approximately $40-$50. Who's selling it this cheap?