Mitsubishi Delica Owners Club UK™

Adhill · Joined: 14 May 2016 Posts: 10 Location: Somerset

Hello

Could anyone advise me please. I have a 1996 L400. The key has started to be temperamental and sometimes it is just stuck in the ignition. I can't move it, or move the gear stick, can't switch it on. If I try and turn the key back and forward, in and out etc, sometimes it suddenly releases and goes back to normal for a while.
Does anyone know if this is repairable or would I need to buy a new key mechanism. I can do basic repairs but nothing too complicated..
Thank you for any advice.
Andy

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Deker · Joined: 08 Mar 2008 Posts: 3833 Location: Borehamwood

At first glance of your post, it sounds like the switch is breaking up. Had that on my taxi, took a while before it totally failed Sad

But then you say about the gearshift, there is a linkage from the gearshift to the ignition switch,
I removed mine 'cos it was a b----- nuisance, possibly could be worn linkage.

HTH

Mr D

Green Grouch · Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2018 19:51 Post subject:

Just checking If you wernt aware, the gear stick must be pushed up and fully forward to remove the key. Apologies if you already knew.
I once had a call from the other half saying that she couldn't get the key out and the local mechanic couldn't either. Embarassed

She's not allowed to drive anymore.!

This was the problem. the garage were very embarrassed
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Lewis · Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2018 22:31 Post subject:

Green Grouch; Considering that Adhill has had his Deli for two years I reckon he will be aware of the normal method of getting the key out.

As Deker mentioned there is an issue where a worn mechanism can result in a key Jamming in the ignition lock. Surprisingly there is also a simple fix that usually works. Once you have managed to ease it out, then spray dry graphite powder in the lock.

HTH
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Green Grouch · Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2018 22:44 Post subject:

Adhill · Joined: 14 May 2016 Posts: 10 Location: Somerset

Thank you very much for the replies. I think it might be both the linkage and the barrel so will investigate both. Yes did know about ensuring the gear stick was in Park before the key is released but don't mind at all being reminded. Sometimes its easy to overlook the simple solutions.

(i don't know about yours but something is always 'falling off' my Delica. Now the sliding door handle won't work from the outside! I suppose its only to be expected with a vehicle over 20 years old..what a vehicle though!)

All the best

Andy

Lewis · Posted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 10:56 Post subject:

That Happened to mine a year or two back. It turned out to be down to a circlip failing and falling off the back of the lock, allowing the linkage to drop off:-

As I was in Germany I had no proper tools with me so just used what I could find to bodge it Laughing

:-

It was about a year later when I got round to sorting it; You need the same type and size of circlip that fits on the rear door closer lock:-

HTH
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Do not blindly go where the path may lead you. Go where there is no path and leave a trail that others may follow!
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Adhill · Joined: 14 May 2016 Posts: 10 Location: Somerset

Hi Lewis
I think this may well be the same problem as i am having. Thanks very much for the photos..
All the best

Andy