Steering Column Repair: 1993 Jeep Gr. Cherokee ignition switch., plastic tabs, car manuals


Question
Apparently, a spring broke inside my ignition switch module, as there is no longer ANY resistance after the 'On' position to start the car. All lights/dash, etc come on at the 'On' position, just no car start. I have obtained a replacement module complete with lockset and keys, and am hoping that I can do the repair myself, since the lowest estimate I have gotten is $115+ and the part cost me $25. It seems like a simple job, but I am reticent to try it because all I have read so far states there are MANDATORY switch positions that the key must be in during the installation to make it work properly. It appears that the module can be reached without pulling the wheel, but that again is shrouded in mystery. No one seems to want to post how to do the work since it basically amounts to 'how to steal a car via removing the ignition,' etc... which I can understand. Same with car manuals, VERY general info. Can you help me please???
-Thanks!

Answer

The red arrow indicate
Hi Alex:
I'll be glad to answer your questions, in detail.
What has happened to you is very common.  The lock cylinder has broken, not the ignition switch.  Where the two connect, a piece of metal has broken off so you are not rotating the switch as far as it needs to go.  I can only post one picture here, so if you need more pictures, you will have to email me directly at info@stolenandrecovered.com

Step by step:
1) Remove the two covers by unscrewing the 3 - 20 torx bolts located on the bottom of the column.
the clamshell covers split apart.  In addition to the bolts, they also have plastic tabs, so you must pull to unsnap them.

2) Turn the lock to the 'run' position, without the truck being started.  You can do this with the battery hooked up or unhooked, it doesn't matter, but with it connected, the lights and radio will remain on during this process.

3) With the same torx driver you used for the lower screws, push the release tab through the ignition switch to release the lock cylinder.  It will then slide out of place.

4) Find and remove the small broken piece of metal inside th lock cylinder hole.  DO NOT DROP IT INTO THE SWITCH!!

5) To install the new lock, rotate it to the "run' position in your hand.  You will know the correct position when the locking pin can be depressed.

6) Slide the new lock into the switch and then turn it tall positions, including accessory.  The locking pin should protrude and keep the lock in place.

7) Install the covers

I hope this does it for you

Doug