[accre810n]

I think I screwed up... I'm trying to replace the tumbler in the ignition, and somehow it got locked up and I can't seem to be able to do anything. This is what I did, which probably wasn't the correct steps...

1. Inserted key into ignition.
2. Turned the key to 1 position.
3. Inserted paperclip into the small notch in order to release the tumbler.
4. Proceeded to turn the black casing around the tumbler believing that the whole thing was supposed to be unscrewed. (I think this is where I went wrong - I think I should have just pulled the key out at this point, and the tumbler should have followed right out.)
5. As I was turning, at some point the tumbler locked back in and now it won't turn in either direction, and the key came out. The key can be reinserted, but will not turn.
6. Tried reinserting and jiggling till my fingers bled, but nothing is moving and can't figure out how to release either the tumbler, or the casing... and now I can't get the car to start... :crying

If anyone has any ideas on how to get the tumbler out, I would REALLY appreciate your help. This is on an '84 300SD. The tumbler was replaced by the previous owner, and I was attempting to replace it with a factory tumbler with the correct key.

 

[SpartanPete]

The same thing happened to me when I replaced mine but I was able to get the key to turn to position one again and insert the paper clip to release it from the lock ring. Maybe try a fresh start and it'll come together

 

[Teutone]

I think I screwed up... I'm trying to replace the tumbler in the ignition, and somehow it got locked up and I can't seem to be able to do anything. This is what I did, which probably wasn't the correct steps...

1. Inserted key into ignition.
2. Turned the key to 1 position.
3. Inserted paperclip into the small notch in order to release the tumbler.
4. Proceeded to turn the black casing around the tumbler believing that the whole thing was supposed to be unscrewed. (I think this is where I went wrong - I think I should have just pulled the key out at this point, and the tumbler should have followed right out.)
5. As I was turning, at some point the tumbler locked back in and now it won't turn in either direction, and the key came out. The key can be reinserted, but will not turn.
6. Tried reinserting and jiggling till my fingers bled, but nothing is moving and can't figure out how to release either the tumbler, or the casing... and now I can't get the car to start... :crying

If anyone has any ideas on how to get the tumbler out, I would REALLY appreciate your help. This is on an '84 300SD. The tumbler was replaced by the previous owner, and I was attempting to replace it with a factory tumbler with the correct key.

Go to the top of the W126 forum announcement where it say's 'new member welcome, please read....' It shows how to search the forum archive for frequently asked and answered topics.
Good luck.

 

[wooky_chew_bacca]

I only got one key when I bought my SEC, don't think the PO was really looking for the others. I stopped by the dealer in Macon on the way through from another trip and was told 25 bucks per key, proof of ownership yadda yadda. I was suggested that I go ahead and order a new ignition tumbler set and one extra key and go ahead a swap out the tumbler and won't have that to worry about for years to come. Yup it's on the list (and what a short list this car has)