Electrical 79 CJ5 258 no spark

[TimmyCJ5]

I have a 79 CJ5 AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l that the engine would not shut off when the key was put in the off position. It was sporadic and didn’t happen every time it was run. I replaced the key ignition cylinder, ignition module, coil, plug wires. I bought a new distributor, but don’t want to replace if it’s not necessary. Is there any wiring I can check, does the connection on the steering column cause issues. What about the connection on the connection on the firewall. The tub was replaced with a fiberglass one.

 

[Sawjaws]

I think there is a linkage rod that goes between the key switch and another ignition switch lower in the column. There could be wearing or misalignment. Can you loosen the key switch and wiggle it to get it to turn off?

This seems to explain it better and there are comments to help. The comments explain the adjustment part.

Jeep CJ7 | OK, need advice. The plastic ignition gear broke in the CJ7 | Facebook

OK, need advice. The plastic ignition gear broke in the CJ7. I replaced it and the switch. Now when I try to start the CJ, it wont start with the steering column cover on. Won't quite turn the extra...

www.facebook.com

Hope this helps.

 

[Turbogus]

Something that can cause this is when we overtighten the nuts on the Starter Solenoid and twist the internal connections so they are in constant contact. The large size of the nuts may incline some folks into torquing down those nuts to what is perceived specification but they are only that large for surface area electrical contact. Snug is good enough with periodic checking during maintenance.