QuestionFirst off please allow me to apologize for my lack of correct terminology. I don't know automobiles that well, and I can't find any diagrams online to find the correct part names.
So here's the deal: I have a 99 Jeep Wrangler Sport and I'm having an issue with the Steering Column. Recently my Jeep wouldn't turn over when I turned the key in the ignition.
I took off the casing around my steering column and found the problem. In between the cylinder (where the key is inserted and turned) and the actual starter (located on the left side of the steering column directly across from the cylinder, which, when turned with a screw driver will start the Jeep minus the key) is a spring loaded pin. The pin wasn't being pushed into the starter because the aluminum casing was broken, so instead of the key pushing the pin into the starter, the key would push the pin to the side, through the break in the aluminum casing and wouldn't turn the starter.
I've been to the Jeep Dealers, to parts yards and such and have come across a few problems. First, apparently this spring loaded pin isn't an individual part and has no name. Secondly, not being an individual part, this spring loaded pin is part of the entire steering column assembly. This means that no one will sell me this one part... they all want me to spend a little less than a thousand dollars for a new steering column with labor.
If I new the name of this part/piece and could find a replacement for it I could put my Jeep's steering column back together myself. I am convinced that it cannot cost much and that these guys are trying to screw me.
Can you please help me to figure this out? Thanks...
AnswerI'm not real sure which piece your speaking of. However if you can get me a picture I would certainly look at it. You also might try checking a couple of shops to see if they know of anyone in the area that specializes in columns. If you look hard enough you will surely find someone. I agree with you it should be a simple fix.
