"3 key system" gas cap questions

[drooman]

I searched and read a number of threads about these. My 3-key car is missing the gas cap AND the two small keys. The keys are on the way from MB classic. I have read that that the new 3-key style gas caps cannot be keyed to the original car keys, and I've read where some guys got it accomplished at a locksmith.

I don't really mind having a 4th key that will come with my new gas cap, what I would like to know is if the key on the reproduction gas caps can be removed from the cap in the unlocked position? A lot of locking caps from this era HOLD the key into the lock while the cap is in the UNLOCKED position, requiring you to LOCK your cap to extract the key, and UNLOCK your cap everytime you want to get gas. I haven't heard of anyone stealing gasoline in about 40 years so even if I had a locking cap I would never lock it.

I like the looks of the locking caps, and I specifically do not like the looks of the OE NON-locking caps with the big rib on it. If I can get the key out of the locking cap while it remains unlocked that's what I'll get (not really caring about the 4th key thing) 

Thanks everyone!

[Mike Hughes]

Yes, if it is an original style locking cap.

[drooman]

Great, thank you.

[MikeSimon]

There is one trick I have used on some of my motorcycle locks/keys successfully, don't know if it would work here:

If the key is a two-sided key that can be inserted either way and you have two locks with different keys, you can use a symmetrical key blank and have it cut to the shape of one lock on one side and the other on the other side. This way one key will work on two different locks. You just have to be aware of how you insert it. You can put a small color dot on the grip part to make it easier.

[TJMart]

I have a Mercedes Benz locking gas cap with a "single" sided key and you can leave it in the unlocked position.
 
I also have the "double" sided key gas cap that also can be used in the unlocked position. However, I have not been successful in finding a locksmith locally that can re-key my double sided cap to the master key. I have researched the Technical Manual and the Gas Cap rekey instructions are not correct for my cap. My cap does not have the holes that can be used to release the center lock to be rekeyed. Any suggestions of a locksmith that has experience and ability to re-key mine?

[LakisAkylas]

Tony: I have the same issue with re-keying a double-sided key gas cap (for late 280SL), and am working with an expert locksmith to tackle it.  If you are interested in details, feel free to pm me.

Lakis 

[Raymond]

I worry less about people stealing gas than a vandal putting something bad in the tank.

[114015]

If you can.... lock the gas cap.
People will not only put debris in your gastank
but also tend to steal the nice heavy chromed gas cap - as a souvenir.

Ask me how I know ....

[Brennie]

Hi
On an early SL 230, was the door key used for the fuel/gas cap?

[Rolf-Dieter ✝︎]

If you can.... lock the gas cap.
People will not only put debris in your gastank
but also tend to steal the nice heavy chromed gas cap - as a souvenir.

Ask me how I know ....

Only in Germany yes Achim

[Mike Hughes]

Hi Brennie -

Yes, the door key also fit the locking gas cap.  The trunk key also fit the glove box.  The ignition key fit the ignition only.

[Bill Sgro]

While we are on the topic, my 1970 109 has a valet key and a master key.  The valet key is rounder and fits the door and ignition only (for when you leave the car with a valet).  As far as I am aware, there is supposed to be only 1 key for a 1970 113...is that right?

[TJMart]

While we are on the topic, my 1970 109 has a valet key and a master key.  The valet key is rounder and fits the door and ignition only (for when you leave the car with a valet).  As far as I am aware, there is supposed to be only 1 key for a 1970 113...is that right?

The 1970 280SL has 2 keys. One is the master, more of a square shaped head and a valet key that has a oval shaped head. Master will unlock everything and the valet will only unlock the door and ignition.

Tony

[Bill Sgro]

Thanks for that confirmation.