[BrittoJeep]

Ok gang,
I need help. 1986 CJ-7. They key turns enough to unlock the steering wheel but it will not turn enough to the first detent (accessories on). It will turn counterclockwise (i.e. radio on) but it will not turn clockwise to the accessory on detent or the starter on detent.
almost feels like the rod inside the steering column is jammed up somehow.

I can feel the rod move back and forth on the column when I turn they key.
I dont know if the rod is jammed at the key cylinder or down at the bottom of the column.

Anyone have instructions on how to install a new key cylinder and/or get at
the rod that moves inside the column?

Also, because the steering column can be unlocked, I'm wondering if it would be easier to just install two switches. One for accesories on and the other to start the Jeep. Is that possible using the solenoid on the fenderwell?

Thanks

[davemci]

Here's a great link that may help you. Is it possible the bolts holding the ignition switch worked loose? This would cause this kind of problem. You'll have to do some adjustment before re-tightening the bolts.

[BrittoJeep]

I spoke to another friend and he thought the ignition switch might be bad as well (at the bottom of the column). Is it easy to take it off?

[davemci]

It's just 2 bolts slightly to the left of the switch. You might try just loosening them and sliding the switch up or down on the column. If you remove the switch it is sometimes tricky to get the rod back in the groove of the switch. I did mine with the column removed since I was rebuilding the column. That made it a lot easier.

[BrittoJeep]

Problem fixed. It was the ignition key switch (Key cylinder).

Thanks everyone