230 sl ignition switch

[dirkbalter]

Hello,
During disassembly a while back, my ignitions switch (66, 230sl) fell apart. I am now in the process of restoring / reassembling.  The crimping became loose. I think I figured out how to reassemble it and think I can save the connector. My problem is one additional spring with plunger (shown in picture) that I cannot put anywhere. Does anyone know where the spring / plunger goes?
Thanks in advance

[dirkbalter]

one more

[Cees Klumper]

I recently replaced my 280 SL switch with a brand new one I found in the UK for something like $70. My old ignition switch would no longer start the car, i.e. engage the starter. Now that you have it (I mean the dashboard rather than the switch) all apart, I would recommend you source a new one if the cost is similar to what I paid.

[ja17]

The earlier ones with the screws instead of the latter plug type are a bit more expensive. I bought a new early one from the MB dealer recently for around $230.00

[WRe]

Hi,
maybe this can help you: https://www.pagodentreff.de/diskussionsforum/threads/symptome-f%C3%BCr-defekten-z%C3%BCndanlassschalter.11520/page-2#post-127753.
...WRe

[dirkbalter]

Thank you all for the response. As suggested, I might source a new one just to be safe and considering the hassle of changing it once installed.
@WRe, thank you for the pdf. And yes, it helps and confirms my theory of reassembly. However, it does not answer the question of placement of the single spring / plunger. I also saw in the pdf (and in my first picture) but it doesn’t show where to place it.
For now, my assumption is that it will go between the ignition housing and the switch, applying a bit of pressure to the switch mechanism for possibly contact issues.   

[WRe]

Hi,
see att. picture.
...WRe

[Big Yellow]

Maybe this is all sorted now, but just wanted to point out the SLS has these ignition switches for 88Euros. Just bought one to change in my 230S 1964.

https://www.sls-hh-shop.de/main/en/mercedes-230-280sl-w113-/46-steering/46-b-steering-column-up-to-07-67/switch-ign-lock-62-67-113-p-5127

[Cees Klumper]

At that price, I think new is the way to go. Have had to fix problems with three oldtimer cars' switchgear now (Bronco, Datsun and Mercedes) all due to wear, and for important functions (starting, brake lights, indicator lights) so they do just wear out. On the Pagoda ignition switch, extra motivation is the amount of work to get to it.

[dirkbalter]

Thank you for the link. I actually bought one from SLS a while back. I ended up giving it to my neighbor who's 230 was sitting at the dealership for weeks until they told him that the part is no longer available.  I have two originals now that I rebuild as per the instructions and believe they are working fine after cleaning, re-greasing and re-crimping.

[DellyRosen]

 My start tumbler on my 1965 230sl was part fifty-fifty and it made it difficult to turn the key. On this vehicle, you need to eliminate every one of the 3 instruments structure the scramble, unbolt the guiding section from the floor, unbolt the coupling, fix the directing section, pull controlling segment and start lock out, unbolt start lock from guiding segments, fix start plug structure lock and you currently have your part close by. Eliminate screws from chrome bezel and you would now be able to take out your tumbler...Yes, it's a genuine work! I found that it was difficult to track down a substitution. Clearly, the tumbler for the 250 and 280 sl's is not quite the same as the one on the 230sl. From your image, you have an early model of start lock.

[dirkbalter]

My start tumbler on my 1965 230sl was part fifty-fifty and it made it difficult to turn the key. On this vehicle, you need to eliminate every one of the 3 instruments structure the scramble, unbolt the guiding section from the floor, unbolt the coupling, fix the directing section, pull controlling segment and start lock out, unbolt start lock from guiding segments, fix start plug structure lock and you currently have your part close by. Eliminate screws from chrome bezel and you would now be able to take out your tumbler...Yes, it's a genuine work! I found that it was difficult to track down a substitution. Clearly, the tumbler for the 250 and 280 sl's is not quite the same as the one on the 230sl. From your image, you have an early model of start lock.

Thank you for the advise and welcome to the group.
As for the the ignition switch, I think I have it figured out and the steering column is rebuild and ready to be re-assembled soon.