Wanted - boot lock barrel

[Kiwibins]

Does anyone know where I could source a new boot lock for my 1980 450SL. Alternatively can you get a full security lock set for the SL's?

Greg

 

[Myros]

make sure you are sitting down

they cost a fortune from MB. I think it was over £300 and the vat when I asked a couple of months ago.
Try Mercman or Dronsfields. you'll probably find the mechanisms the same as other similar vintage models such as the w 126 and 123. Consider fitting a thatcham approved alarm rather than renewing the locks. It might be money better spent.

 

[TimN]

If the boot lock has become a bit temperamental is is perfectly possible to refurbish the lock barrels and clean the slides and the weather flap. Below is a guide on how to do it. Even if you choose not to do it yourself it might be useful to some others. Any slides that are beyond cleaning can be removed altogether. There are about 8 slides. In theory it will still lock with just 1 slide but a screw driver jimmied in the lock is more likely to shear one slide but the difference between 6 and 8 is far less.

If it is like the 123 series lock you will have to remove the lock from the door/boot. On the back of the lock there with be a preassure plate that can be removed with a crosshead screw driver. A circular spring, which is supposed to return the barrel to the upright position can then be prised off. Note the ends of the spring and how they grip both the barrel casing and pressure plate. I'm working from memory here as I can't remember if the barrel comes out the front or the back. I think it comes out the front but if not there will be either a circlip or plastic retainer which will have to be removed. The barrel can then be carefully removed.

Chances are that the slides and their springs will not fall out is there is a lot of corrosion but be propared in case some do. It will save time later if you keep the slides in order. Clean each slide with some fine wet and dry. Clean as much crude out of the barrel. Very carefully prise out the spring and clean the tube that it sits in with a needle.

For reassembly purchase some lock powder grease from your local locksmiths and squirt liberally over the components. If you can get new springs then do so. If a spring is broken don't bother installing it or it's slide. Insert the key to check that all the slides retract fully. If not then you have got some out of order. Use the key to aid the rebuilding process.