[elkzzilla]

I just recived a 1978 MB 280CE i was trying to get a key for it through the company but they are telling me there is no such car if anyone can tell me me any info on the following vin # 12305310009842 AT 6 cylinder wht i did get in the way of info is the vin is for a standard transmission car any help is appretiated

 

[GeeS]

It's not a U.S. version. If you're in the States, I don't believe the dealer network will do you much good. In any case, I can't find any info on that VIN either.

 

[elkzzilla]

im in the states Arizona all tags are in english i was told if in german it would be im lost dont knw wht to say dealer is contacting german company for key info but thwey dont think it will pan out

 

[wbain]

That's a chassis number, type W123, 053 - 280CE and the 10 indicates a manual trans. A 12 would indicate an automatic LHD.

123.053-10-009842 but you have it as an automatic trans. 9842 is the sequence number. Check again, either on the chassis frame rail in the engine compartment on the exhaust side or the door post. There are plates on the radiator support as well that are stamped.

Please take some pics.

 

[benzmizer]

Hmmm, either that or the C123 underwent some "transplant" already ny its previous owner >> thus explains the "inconsistencies" in numbers...

As wbain mentioned, pics would help.

 

[elkzzilla]

ther numbers located in the door, driver piller, radiator support and firewall are all the same it does not look like the transmission have been change but cant be possitive the odds thing about it it can be place in any gear with out unlocking the collum is that commom to be able to di that in that year. as for pic wht would u all wht pics of? lmk and ill get them taken but how do i get them on the site?

 

[Ed Mclass]

Give the Classic Center a call in California, Tom Hanson. 949-598-4842 or e-mail, [email protected]. He can help you with the key. At worst you can get the proper key blank and have a locksmith make one. It will cost less than ordering one from MBUSA. I had to do this on a 1958 180a.

 

[KCM]

the odds thing about it it can be place in any gear with out unlocking the collum is that commom to be able to di that in that year.

Floor shift automatic transmissions on the W123 did not have a shifter interlock. So yes, that is as it is supposed to be.

 

[elkzzilla]

well MB found the code for the key but the previous owner must of change the tumbler can any give me advice on what would be the best way to get the old tumbler out i have anther with key i can put in

 

[GeeS]

With no key, you'll have to drill it.

 

[elkzzilla]

well i was hopeing to avoid that but drilling its is thanks