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98 XJ ignition key trys to crank, wont turn over

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Old 08-20-2012, 05:52 PM
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Exclamation 98 XJ ignition key trys to crank, wont turn over

The key itself is not stuck, but will mostly not go back to the normal position to take the key out. Now, when i try to start it like, over cranks, no grinding gear sounds, but it jyst wont turn over, just keeps crankin, rather slow & pitiful sounding too. I know i need new spark plugs n ignition coil etc.
The boyfriends foot literally hit the key area last night pretty hard, could it have jammed it?? Havent ever had this problem before.
Thanks for any help!!
Old 08-20-2012, 11:43 PM
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I believe the key operates a rod that operates the switch itself, located on top of the steering column. I wonder if the cylinder or rod got bent, not allowing the switch to move fully to "start", or back to "lock" Might have to look under there to see what's broken.
Old 08-20-2012, 11:49 PM
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What were you and your bf doing that his foot hit the key pretty hard :P idk about the problem I would suggest the cps bit that is probably not it based on your description

Last edited by greenxj21; 08-21-2012 at 12:34 AM.
Old 08-21-2012, 12:30 AM
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Originally Posted by greenxj21
What were you and you and doing that his foot hit the key pretty hard :P
I wasn't gonna ask that
Old 08-21-2012, 12:35 AM
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haha yea whats up with that....haha jk. you most likely just need a new key tumbler. do you know if that key switch has ever bean replaced. it only takes just the slightest bump to screw those things up.
Old 08-21-2012, 05:40 AM
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Originally Posted by nannerskim@me.com
...cranks, no grinding gear sounds, but it jyst wont turn over, just keeps crankin, rather slow & pitiful sounding too. I know i need new spark plugs n ignition coil etc...
Looks like the key is turnable far enough, because its stated she's cranking, slow and powerless....so:starter suboptimal?
Cranking, not starting: several causes, one of them no spark: you stated it needs new sparks and coil: check for spark, do a tune-up if you're due, get that out of the way.
Cranking not starting: fuel issue? good fuel pressure?
Just a few ideas.
Old 08-21-2012, 04:01 PM
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Originally Posted by Radi
I believe the key operates a rod that operates the switch itself, located on top of the steering column. I wonder if the cylinder or rod got bent, not allowing the switch to move fully to "start", or back to "lock" Might have to look under there to see what's broken.
Yes on the rod, and what Radi suggests could be possible.
I thought better of asking the other question myself. Hope you were at least parked, or maybe another rod might get bent.......:O

Last edited by GibsonSG; 08-21-2012 at 04:04 PM.
Old 08-22-2012, 09:54 AM
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Originally Posted by GibsonSG
Yes on the rod, and what Radi suggests could be possible.
I thought better of asking the other question myself. Hope you were at least parked, or maybe another rod might get bent.......:O
not in park he was intoxicated, i was driving & he wanted to but i wouldnt let him. It doesnt matter, i know his foot kicked that area pretty hard and now the key wont turn back to the safe/lock position OR forward enough to actually START the jeep, she tries to crank, but thats it, just a trying crank, n actually sticks in that trying crank mode... But never turns over and runs.
So- a tumbler? I dont believe this part has ever been replaced, ive never had an issue w it before.
Old 08-22-2012, 09:55 AM
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Sucks man
Old 08-22-2012, 10:27 AM
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yea basically. got some guyscomin to look at it.... kinda nerve wrecking though bc im not positive whats actually wrong with it ?
Old 08-22-2012, 12:06 PM
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Default starting issue

did it cut right off? or would it not start after you cut it off?
Old 08-22-2012, 12:24 PM
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Originally Posted by greezyboy
did it cut right off? or would it not start after you cut it off?
Oh it cuts off, but it wont fully "start" it just keeps trying to crank, like stuck in that mode.
Old 08-22-2012, 12:31 PM
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did it bind the key horder
Old 08-22-2012, 12:41 PM
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Originally Posted by greezyboy
did it bind the key horder
Bend the key holder? No, not tgat i know of
Old 08-22-2012, 04:09 PM
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Ok mobile mechanics came out, the ignition tumbler was damaged from the kick causing it not to turn all the way in either direction. It also had it locked in 'on' position causing adrain on the battery
Fixed. Guh.
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