The complex [PdMe(SMe2)(μ-I)]2 is a suitable reagent for the synthesis of methylpalladium(II) cationic complexes. Addition of 2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridyl or 2,2′-bipyridyl to [PdMe(SMe2)(μ-I)]2 gives [PdMe(terpy)]I or PdIMe(bpy), respectively, and the latter complex reacts with AgBF4 in acetonitrile to give [PdMe(bpy)(NCMe)]BF4. Addition of bpy and AgBF4 to [PdMe(SMe2)(μ-I)]2 in acetone, followed by filtration and addition of γ-picoline or acetonitrile to the filtrate, gives [PdMe(bpy)(γ-pic)]BF4 or [PdMe(bpy)(SMe2)]BF4, respectively. The crystal structure of [PdMe(bpy)(γ-pic)]BF4 has been determined and shows that the cation [PdMe(bpy)(γ-pic)]+ has square planar coordination at palladium(II) and the γ-picoline plane forms an angle of 62.1° with the 'PdCN3' coordination plane. © 1990.