(1989 Renix XJ)

(This is with the engine running) My radio, clock backlight, turn signals, cigarette lighter, A/C, basically anything considered an accessory item, loses power randomly but if I twist the ignition key towards the Start position (but not far enough to engage the starter), my accessory power will return. If I did that the accessory power would stay on the rest of the drive, but now it has become worse and accessory power won't even stay on when the engine is off with the key in the accessory position. The key cylinder is not flush with the steering column plastic and the key itself is quite loose (I can pull the key out and the engine will stay running. Is that normal?). If someone can clarify what I need to replace, being the key cylinder or something further down the ignition system that would be greatly appreciated. I watched the BleepinJeep video on replacing the key cylinder but I don't know if the key cylinder is the culprit of my accessory issue anyways.

 

So easy.......You need a new ignition switch down on the column. The terminal for the brown wire is FUBAR.

 

Thanks Cruiser! I found three different options for a replacement switch at O'rielly; Masterpro ($13.99), BWD ($18.99), and ACDelco ($27.99). Should I just pay the additional $13 for the ACDelco one, or is that unnecessary? I don't know which one is the quality part (price doesn't always mean quality).

 

Pay the money.

If you remove the lower dash panel and loosen up the steering column nuts so it can drop down, the job will be much easier.

 

Ok. Do you happen to have any of those handy dandy photos's of the bolts I will need to loosen or is it very obvious which ones I will need to loosen?

 

Very obvious and they are nuts.

 

Isn't there some adjustment required for that thar new switch Pete?
"(I can pull the key out and the engine will stay running. Is that normal?)" Well it's normal, but it's not suppose to be that way.
One of mine needs a new tumbler as well, but it's one nobody would steal.

 

2 separate things. Tumbler and ignition switch.

 

nice

 

Liam, I gather the switch can be slid up and down on the column a little. There is a rod down to it from the tumbler and it needs to be positioned where when you turn the key to start it energizes the solenoid, is all.


10-4 Jeep guy. I carry a hidden credit card in my main Jeep for when I forget my wallet. Bit embarrassing last week when I rushed out from the register to find besides no wallet I also had the wrong Jeep!

 

i h

 

So first adjust and then see if it needs to be replaced? And I replaced my tumbler anyways because I don't have a spare key and it did help a little bit with the issue but not completely. I'm seeing my mechanic Wednesday because my moms car needs a new thermostat. I'll see if I can work on my Jeep there so my mechanic can give me guidance so don't completely F it all up.

 

Replace it!!!!
Flintstone muddied the waters here.

 

I was friggen asken Pete, doesn't he need to adjust the new when he installs it? Liem I gather that's just for having it start when you urn the key.

" There is a rod down to it from the tumbler and it needs to be positioned where when you turn the key to start it energizes the solenoid, is all."

 

no