NEED HELP: Igntion Tumbler removed, switch still won't turn!

[LowLife]

OK....so my 400e ignition locked up on me....I had to drill it out. I got the black security cover off of the ignition mechanism and the tumbler came out without any issues. Now that the tumbler is out, I can see an open slot in the back. I used a small screwdriver and tried to turn the slot, which would be the same thing as a key turning. It won't move....it's still stuck. What causes this? The tumbler isn't the issue because the tumbler is out of the car now.....but something is still not allowing the mechanism to turn.

 

[Glen]

The steering wheel may have locked with tension on the lock pin. Try turning the steering wheel while you turn the switch with the screw driver.

 

[LowLife]

Still nothing.....I think it's locked up too....I am assuming this is what I need to order:

 

[gerryvz]

I believe if you turn the lock cylinder when the switch is out, then it permanently locks (ruins) the mechanism. There is a fair amount of info, and cautions relating to this, posted to the forums at PeachParts and Banzworld. You need to Google it.

Here is one representative thread: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum...y-ignition-switch-steering-lock-r-r-w124.html

You can get a genuine MB part much cheaper than AutohausAZ's price you posted, if you go through parts.com.

 

[Glen]

If only the tumbler is out, you should be able to turn the switch with a screw driver. If it doesn't turn, it's either friction holding the steering lock pin or possibly the transmission lock, try moving the shift lever while turning the switch.

If you end up replacing the whole lock mechanism, you still need to be able to turn the switch because the electrical connector will not come out of the housing unless the you are in the ACC position.