Ignition switch came loose.

[JoeGons]

Here's a good one for you!!
I have searched.
Sorry, but I have not found instructions I can apply to my situation.
2001 W210 E320 RHD
First: My ignition switch (Electronic type) assembly has come loose and dripped into the dash. The outer surface bazel just fell off.
I need to position the assembly back into place.
Please tell me how to get at it. How is it held in place?
I believe i will need to remove the driver's underdash panel.
Please tell me how.
Are there any other panels or items that will need to be removed?
Please explain.
Thanks,
Joe

 

[Tinkerer]

If I were you and assuming that you have a screwdriver I would entertain my curiosity, think that the hard bit will be putting the bezel back on.

 

[JoeGons]

Ha Ha!
Where to stick it first?

 

[JoeGons]

OK. I got it done.
I was very concerned about using anything made of metal.
I got hold of a piece of nylon fishing line. Quite a thick one.
I then formed a loop, pushed it through the hole and looped it around the switch.
I then pulled the switch out towards the hole.
I held the switch at the edge of the hole.
I then passed the key through the bazel and put the key into the switch.
I turned the key to position one to lock it in place.
I then removed the fishing line while holding the switch with the key.
I was then able to screw the bazel back onto the switch.
With my thumbs I was able to tighten the bazel.
Problem solved.
As a note.
There was no warning. So from now on, I will be checking the bazel for tightness.
There is a tool to tighten the older key type switches.
This bazel is smooth.

 

[trapperjohn]

Good job Joe and thanks for the "how to"

Bit of loctite onthat thread should you have to do it again?

 

[richard]

Theres a 'special tool' for unscrewing the bezel. Its effectively a cylinder with 2 square notches cut out at one end, that slides into that bezel and allows you to turn it (the notches are what holds the bezel to the cylinder) and get it nice and tight. The cylinder has a nut on one end allowing you to tighten with a spanner, but I just grab the cylinder and turn it with my hand.

If it happens again, you can just unscrew the plate above the driver's feet and reach up and put it in place whilst you screw the bezel back in.

The wires on the switch ('EIS") are all properly insulated, so not likely to end up touching any metal.

Richard

 

[JoeGons]

I have seen the tool you mention.
This bazel has no notches.
It's just a smooth ring that screws onto the body of the EIS.

 

[JoeGons]

OK.
On close inspection I can see some notches on the inner surface of the Bazel ring.
I guess that must be where the tool goes.
The problem would be waiting for the tool to arrive.
Joe