dinnut

ok so my dad gives us this 84 190E today and i stick the key ignition and it turns just fine. later on we bring to my hous and try it and the key wont turn in the cylinder from position 0. if i play with it long enough it might eventually turn. and a friend tried it and says its typical mercedes you have to feel it but i say that is crap and i should be able to make it turn easier. is it the key? is the key wornout? the cylinder? please give me some help. also the timing chain is supposedly bad. how hard is it on these cars. mine has a 2.3l 4 banger.
also, the odometer doesnt work, but the speedometer does. how hard is it to make the odometer work?

E-Klasse

Try turning the steering wheel to see if it frees up the key switch. Otherwise you need a new cylinder / tumbler. I just changed my whole key switch assembly on my 190E. That is a big job because you have to get the dash out of the way.

dinnut

well, i figured it out somewhat. you have to be very gentle and play with it lightly till it turns. after that its easy!

MTI

Removal of the dash isn't necessary to replace the tumbler/cylinder, but if you're changing the whole lock assembly, it is. The tumblers are removed with the key in the "I" position and a steel wire extractor. So a bit of preventive maintenance (replace the tumbler) when the key starts getting "sticky" will save you a lot of headaches later.

dinnut

where can i find a new tumbler? mercedes benz dealer? any idea on cost?

mctwin2kman

www.europeanautomotive.com or www.thebenzbin.com

mbsickness

Some good advise above to change the tumbler before it becomes a problem. In order to change the lock tumbler ther ky must be in the "I" position. If the lock gets to the point where it can't be turned out of positin "0"....you're screwed and have to cut the lock out. The dealer charged me $85 for a new tumbler and it is keyed to use the original keys. As an added bonus you also get a new key with the tumbler as well.

E-Klasse

They may have a loaner tumbler or shop tumbler that they put in while yours is being sent from the factory. The new tumbler is ordered off of your VIN number and sent to the dealership.

jazz16v

aight guys whats goin on....i have a 1985 190e 2.3-16 my uncle accidently jumped my car an put the positive on the negatvie and vice versa.....so i think he fried my computer....what should i do to make sure that there is no other damage to my 16v please get back to me asap....thanks