Key trapped in ignition/remove tilt lock lever

[CB2L]

I recently purchased an 83' CJ7 . When I was doing my once over before purchase, the ignition worked fine; nothing wrong. However, once I got it down here (Key West), the first time i started it up, it started and ran fine, but I can't get the lock cylinder to turn all the way back to the point that I can get the key out.

I've pulled off the steering wheel/lock plate and pulled the key lock cylinder - when removed from the column, it works fine. Key in and out, no prob. However, when it's inserted in it's slot, and engaged with the little gear, it will not turn back all the way.

I feel like if I could get the upper shroud off and get better access to the rod/gear linkage, I might be able to see what's holding it up. How do I get it off? I've already removed all of the bolts that you can get to; I think the only thing holding the shroud in place is the tilt lock lever on the right side. How do I remove it?

Different but unrelated note: how do you disconnect the wires from the turn signal switch?

Thanks in advance

 

[IOPort51]

the rod that goes to the switch from the lock has an adjusting screw at the switch end. If it is out of adjustment it will not allow the lock to return to the off position.

 

[CB2L]

can i get to it and do whatever adjusting needs to be done without dropping the steering column?

 

[IOPort51]

take the screws out of the dash, hang the passenger side from a wire to the top of the windshield and pull the dash away to see behind it. It is not as hard as you may think, unless the screws are rusted. use a hammer torque driver and a GOOD torx socket to loosen them, the best way to avoid stripping the heads. this should get you access to the switch with out dropping the column.

 

[CB2L]

i've already got the whole dash off because I'm replacing it. the PO had some sort of cheap fiberboard painted black in place of a proper dash. he did a number on my poor jeep. probably going to end up replacing the wiring throughout the vehicle.

I looked earlier; I can see/feel the bolts that hold the cover on the switch (if I'm looking at the right thing). just wasn't sure if I'd be able to reach this alleged screw that you mentioned

 

[rr41mag]

first off your in heaven, You own a jeep in Key West. I love that place! I got married there in 09.

I would go ahead and pull the column. It's not really that hard and would make things so much easier to work on. The wiring for the signals are made into the signal mechanism. You can disconnect that plug and pull it out enough to lay it off to the side.

 

[CB2L]

yeah, that's how i've got it now; the switch is just hanging. there's got to be a way to disconnect those wires though, right? how else would you replace the turn signal switch?

 

[CB2L]

also - still need to get the tilt lock lever off in order to get the upper shroud off...

 

[IOPort51]

does it not just un screw??

also - still need to get the tilt lock lever off in order to get the upper shroud off...

 

[hagar]

yeah, that's how i've got it now; the switch is just hanging. there's got to be a way to disconnect those wires though, right? how else would you replace the turn signal switch?

you unplug the connector under the dash on the column for the t/s wire harness. You attach a fish wire to the t/s switch harness plug end; you tilt the connector sideways (lengthwise)to the inside of the column and pull the wire harness up thru the open cavity inside the column; disconnect the fish wire, leave it in place.
To reinstall, attach the new (or old) switch plug, and pull it by the other end of the fish wire, down thu the cavity inside the column.
Easy