YellowSub2000

In the process of diagnosing the starting situation of my XJ, I decided to replace my ignition switch. Upon attempting to install the new switch I noticed the rod that is connected to the ignition tumbler won't rotate enough to go back into the ignition switch. Trying to find the cause I noticed that the rod isn't sitting right with the tumbler any more (Won't move when turning the key). Maybe something came out of place. Anyone know how to disassemble the tilt area of the column in order to repair the rod issue? Or would replacing the entire column be ideal. If replacing is a better option, what else needs to be removed to remove the column? I've got the column dropped now.

Anyone have any how to links?

Thanks.

Abovetimberline

do you have another colum?if so then all you need to do is disconnect wires to colum,remove bolts where colum goes through the floor board,and disconect steering shaft in the engine compartment,it will then come out. Getting to that rod is also easy,remove horn cover,horn assembly,3 screws,steering wheel,you will need a puller,lockring,will need lockring removal tool,it just pushes the lockring down enough to remove clip,then remove blinkler assembly and pull to side to access tumbler and rod,it actually takes longer to do this than replacing colum as a a unit.
I would also suggest getting a good repair manual.

YellowSub2000

I've got it that far, but I cannot access where the rod attaches. Can I disassemble it a little father in order to reattach the rod?

Abovetimberline

Yes you can,but now you have to get your turn signal lever out of the way by removing it on the left side,it gets a bit more complicated at this point,and it is easy to tear or rip the wires from the lever. if you do not mind being upside down for awhile you might be able to see it from the bottom,or just pull colum out and hook it up,that colum from where you have it now can be out in 30 min or less,just have patience and be careful.

YellowSub2000

Do you think the fact that the rod won't rotate to fit into the switch could be that the rod became disconnected inside the tilt assembly?

Abovetimberline

it is possible,but it is hard to tell without looking at it.