[R129 SL] Ignition switch/key problem

[Paul Samarin]

This *may* be a very serious problem, so until you get further info  
from this group or elsewhere, I think you shouldn't drive the car.

With my previous car, a 1986 560 SEC, I was on the other list which  
is a part of this group (mbcoupes.com.)  Over there they warned very  
strongly about this problem.  Right now, while it's working and you  
are able to turn the key all the way off, the ignition tumbler is  
very easy to replace.  If it fails and gets stuck before you replace  
it, the entire dash must be disassembled and the cost is quite severe.

Replacing the tumbler doesn't change the key, by the way, so don't  
worry about the other locks.

That's all I know, but I wanted to get a note out to you before you  
go any further.  I hope someone more informed will chime in with more  
details.

Good luck,

Paul
'90 500 SL
Long Beach, CA


On Jun 14, 2008, at 12:36 PM, Oldbenz1 at aol.com wrote:


> My '91 500SL has developed a serious problem.  When I turn off the  

> ignition and try to remove the key I have trouble turning it to the  

> extreme counter--clockwise detent so the key can be removed  Moving  

> the steering wheel while attempting to turn the key does not help,  

> nor does using other keys (I have 3 keys for this car).  After a  

> lot of playing around with the key in the lock, I am finally able  

> to remove it.  Likewise it is sometimes difficult to turn the  

> ignition switch clockwise to start the engine- it is sticky.  A  

> shot of aerosol WD-40 injected into the lock did not help.  Anyone  

> had this problem and found a fix?  I'm afraid if I need to replace  

> the ignition switch I may also have to replace all the other locks  

> as well resulting in a major expense.

>

>

>

> Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best 2008.

> The MB Coupes Website!

> R129 SL Mailing List


Paul Samarin
pauls at sbcglobal.net



-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://www.pairlist.net/pipermail/r129list/attachments/20080614/47df7323/attachment.html>