W123 diesel ignition lock and switch

You need to be able to turn the ignition tumber to position one and stick big paper clips into the slot deep in order to remove the black sleeve.... or for the entire steering lock to come out.

If not, then you got to drill the tumbler out.

Thanks , I duess the wire I used did not get deep enough (1.2cm). I'll try it.

I think it goes in nearly 1"... 2cm... you need to use large paper clip... wiggle up and down and all around to get it in deeper. Again, ignition must be in position 1 to do so... otherwise, the lock stays put and you cannot insert the paperclip deep enough.

Thanks for your help. I got the good lock out. Now, how do I drill out the tumbler on the replacement column ? It looks like hardened steel? Or is it easier to replace the lock and switch-back-cover ?

It definitely is hardened steel. I have not done any drilling on the tumbler so I wouldn't know. But look at the parts you took off and see what solutions you can come up with for easier removal without key.