My Mercedes 280SE 1985 has the contacts worn and I was given the replacement but don't know how to get switch out of palce does anybody knows also I need a parts manual for that type of Mercedes.

 

Did you remove the whole steering lock assembly?
If you did it should still be connected to the harness.
To remove the harness you have to put the key in the tumbler and turn it to the 1st notch or click on the tumbler. There are notches on the front of the tumbler 1 notch 1st click, 2nd notch 2nd click (I don't remember if it is the 1st or second click. Try the 1st if it won't come off click the key 1 more time to the second it should release).The old style ignition switches had a t-shaft on them to keep the plug from falling off.The new switch does not have the t-shaft on it anymore. That will let you take the plug connector off of the steering lock.
After you get the plug off you should be able to take off the two screws that hold the switch to the lock. Put the electrical connector back on and plug it back in and you should be all set.

I will check back to see if you got the job done.

Good Luck,
Ray