Ign lock misaligned

[Dave]

My ignition key slot doesn't line up with the hole in the dash.  It's at the top of the hole.  I took off the trim ring and gasket to get the key in.  The dash looks aligned properly.  Does anyone know how to address this goofy problem?

[jaymanek]

You mean the complete lock? If so then I dont think mine is right in the centre either.

[Naj ✝︎]

Hi, Dave,

From what I can remember, the stg lock barrel is attached to the stg column.
The stg column is fixed to the dash with a 'U' bolt. You may be able to centre the hole to the lock by adjusting the column, but to get to the U bolt, the centre instrument may have to be removed first... 

Naj

[Dave]

Thanks Gents
I just replaced the dead p-o-s 80's cassette deck in the dash with a new modern unit (stock unit long gone and not lusted after), and I couldn't figure out how to adjust the lock mechanism on the column while I had it apart.  Naj, thank you for the confirmation and the great idea on maybe lowering the column sightly. 

On a side note, I was glad to clean out the 45yr old mess behind the dash.  I've put in a few stereo systems, and I'm always surprised at what a sloppy half a$$ed job a stereo shop did in the past.  Now clean, soldered connections, shrink tubing'd, and good for another couple of decades.

Trivia question:  Guess what cassette tape album or artist was stuck in the unit (the unit had to be autopsied to finally give up the tape).  Hint:  I'm in the USA, the car came from the southern US, and the artist is not an American or a county music star (but does have tendencies).

[reggie]

Elton John  He has tendencies 

[Dave]

Nope.  sorry, not close.  i meant a rocker with some country music tendencies.  Another hint.  He's still popular, but was really popular in the 70's

[reggie]

   Kenny Rogers 

[bogeyman]

Ringo?

Clapton?

[Dave]

Thanks to all for the interest.
Drum roll please.....................


Neil Young

[Joe]

You don't mention that you solved the problem of the lock not being centered in the hole. It may be that the lock was, at some time, replaced with a modified one for a later model. The early ones are scarce, but the later ones are not, and they are easy to modify to fit. They don't fit the hole in the dash exactly the same, though.
Joe
1965 230SL

[Dave]

Thanks for the interest Joe.  I haven't addressed it yet.  Now the car is sleeping for the winter.  By the way, I wish I was driving my SL around the Springs, rather than Chicago.  Haven't been back in a few years, but what a great town!  My favorite street name of all time, Garden of the Gods.