Need help big time. My 91 300E ignition switch started sticking. I left the key in and ordered a new tumbler and key. Have the new one but can't get the old one out. Been trying to release the small spring clip with a stainless steel wire and pull the tumbler out. I do not have a dealer close. What is the trick? I tried the wire in a U shape and not sure what the other side of the switch release is. The new tumbler has one spring clip and two insert slots. Is the spring clip in the upper access hole or lower. I've worked it both ways. By looking at the new part it looks simple but must be a trick to it. Thanks for any help.

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Handyjay

Handyjay, for information on fabricating the release wire do a "Search" under 'cylinder lock'. Read the thread titled 'Ignition Lock Broken - Help Needed'. Scroll down until you see the illustration of the release wire and a picture of the cylinder lock and barrel after removal. There are detailed instructions which clearly explain the removal process.

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Fred Hoelzle

There is 2 tricks
1. Make sure the key turns to the #1 position so that the wire can go in

2. The ends of the wires should be at an angle. I don't know the exact degree. Do a search. Someone posted it.

I feel your frustration. The first day I tried, I spend something like 2 hours trying to get the tumbler out.

I took a break and searched the forum. I made adjustments to my wire and the next day the tumbler came out in 5 minutes.

Good luck.

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JR
1986 Gold 300E 4Dr automatic

Don't be fooled by the fact that the new tumbler looks like it only needs to be released on one side.

The black metal cover over the tumbler is held in on both sides and you must push your tool in to pull the little blades in that hold it on both sides. You must have pretty steep angles on the tips of your tool so that it will slide in and release the cover and tumbler.

Don't pay any attention to how the new part looks. The black cover is your real objective. Once you get it out, then you can see how it all works.

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2012 E350
2006 Callaway SC560

Thank you, thank you. Got it. Seattle dealer quoted $300 to 350 if the key was in the lock and could turn. Another $300 if they had to drill it out. My local dealer said only a M/B dealer could buy the tool and offered no other help. Thanks again. Handyjay.

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Handyjay

ready to cut ignition tumbler

ready to cut ignition tumbler

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David
1986 300E Anthracite + ECodes + MB Mileage Award

I just did this - you need to be in the "on position " or "position one " i used two 1.5 mm allen keys as they seemed to work better - than the wire you will feel the tools slide past spring tension Both sides -- i squeezed a little together at the top while pulling and out it popped - it wasnt a slingk and easy thing but when it goes it comes right out - the black hardened cover comes with the cylinder -

FYI ___ i just drilled out "the PIN " and bought all the replacement parts including key from the "stealer" $290 for the switch , the lock assembly , the tumbler with Key and the innerds for the trany lock. im ready to reinstal just waiting to get my MB cd so i can figure out what wire goes where - (color to label the wires all came loose when removing the switch - ) Any buddy have that info - ???