Replacing Ignition Switch

[Mike]

I am about to embark on a variety of winter projects relating mainly to instrument gauge repairs and one of the things that I'd like to do in this process is to replace my ignition switch on my 1967 230 SL.  I bought a replacement one off of ebay a while back when I noticed that my car would cut off if I wiggled the key while it was running.  One of the things that I'd like to do is to have the new switch changed so that it accommodates my original key.  I have read everything that I can find on switch replacement but I have not read anything that mentions re-keying.  Has anyone tried to have their replacement switch modified to accomplish this?  What type of vendor could accomplish this?  Thanks

[Naj ✝︎]

Hello, Mike,

You only need to replace the electrical part of the switch which is screwed to the back of the ignition barrel.
You can retain the original barrel and key.

naj

[Mike]

Actually, I also need to replace the cylinder too as it is exhibiting other problems,  like sticking.  Also the key itself is loose and wobbly when engaged.

[graphic66]

Re keying could be a problem. My 230 SL has the key cylinder held into the unit with 3 pins that are pressed in flush with the lock body. The pins are hardened steel and very small. I tried to drill them out on an old lock, no way. They are about 1/4" long and have spiral cut groves in them to hold them in. Looks like once they are pressed in they don't ever come out. I don't think you can rekey without getting the lock cylinder out of the lock body.

[Anfinn]

See if there is any help in this thread regarding single key issues:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=6168.0