Ignition switch install

[rsparks79cj7]

I'm hoping that some one has some good advice or tips, history,79 CJ7 tilt steering, T-150 , ignition switch on steering column is bad, not the key part, the componant on the column behind the dash. My question is, whats the easiest way to replace it? Does anyone have a diagram or a link to one. Thanks for any and all advice and or comments.

 

[IOPort51]

The switch is right dead center on the top of the column. It is held on by two machine screws as far as I can see. It will be a five minute job to replace it , after you pull the dash off and remove the column. I really don't see an easy way on this one. You may be able to do it with just the dash off but by then you would have the wheel off so it wouldn't be that big a deal to pull the column. Perhaps you have very slim arms and an extra elbow and can do it in place. I think I could get the screws out but I am doubtfull I could put the shaft back in the switch and replace the screws just by touch while standing on my head in the drivers seat.

Someone else will be along pretty soon to tell you how to do this the easy way I am sure. Hang in there.

 

[dslywalker]

i did it without pulling anything off.Ten minutes to put switch in 30 minutes to get your hands and arms out.I'd get everything cleared away that i could makes it a lot easier when you have to do the adjusting of the switch.Like IO said there's 2 screws 5/16 i believe and the rod that comes down from the key switch.Make sure the switch your putting in is in the same position as the one you took out.That way the rod will go back in and the screws will line up.
You should be able to take the cover piece off the steering column down by the dash.Then you should be able to see the switch thru the column mount.You can take the bolts out of the dash and move the dash up and out enough to see the switch.Carefull of the heater fan switch when pulling the dash.It will rub coming out,at least it did on my 83.You might be able to drop the sterring column at that point to get better access.Its a pain either way but a easy install once you get to it.Like I said I've did it without pulling anything out but its sure hard on the hands and prepare to bleed.

 

[Buuushman]

you should be able to do this without pulling the dash panel- if you just pull the four or so bolts on the collar that hold the column up it should drop down enough to give you decent access to the switch- I've done it without removing anything but you do have to be a bit of a contortionist to cram yourself under the dash panel.

 

[BusaDave9]

Thanks Buuushman and dslywalker. I just replaced this switch today. I searched the site and found your post. It was a lot easier than I thought. Loosening and lowering the steering column made all the difference even though the column didn't move far.
My manual didn't say anything about how to replace this.

 

[TOBYWON]

...you do have to be a bit of a contortionist to cram yourself under the dash panel.

I thought being a contortionist was just a natural role of a CJ owner.

 

[mouseman722000]

On my 1982 jeep CJ5 Renegade my switch jus broke and just turns freely. I need to no if i need to replace the switch in the colomn along with a new key. If so i just take the steering wheel off and replace it that way. Also i felt where the wires come out from the bottom and didnt feel a rod is there supposed to be one that comes out of the bottom of the colomn?

 

[mtnwhlr]

On my 1982 jeep CJ5 Renegade my switch jus broke and just turns freely. I need to no if i need to replace the switch in the colomn along with a new key. If so i just take the steering wheel off and replace it that way. Also i felt where the wires come out from the bottom and didnt feel a rod is there supposed to be one that comes out of the bottom of the colomn?

Yes there is a rod that should be coming out about where the wires do and hook into the ignition switch.