Sorry if this information is already out there somewhere, but this got me for a while so I figured I should upload my findings.

So I was digging around to see if I could find out why my ignition cylinder wouldn't turn back fully to let me be able to take the key out. I just replaced the ignition switch and ignition cylinder recently because I broke the factory ones after it wouldn't stop sticking and I was in a rush. (oops?) Anyways, it was still sticking after the new parts so this is what I found.




There's this slot in a pivoting mechanism that that actuator arm has to slide into that's right under where my finger is. You can see here it's stuck and won't let the actuator arm go in.





But if I depress it, it lines up with the slot and seats like it's supposed to.





I noticed it was attached to this cable, and when I pushed the pivoting mechanism attached to this down, I heard a clicking under my shifter cover.





The cable leads to down here, and I noticed the plastic for it is broken.





Just a more up-close shot to show you how it's broken. And yes, I know it's dirty. I didn't have her for the first 284k :P





The little rig I came up with. Works like a charm. I also lubed up the pivoting mechanism while I was at it too. <br/><br/>Been running with it like this for a while and I don't get any more bind ups.

I added some indicators on the pictures as if it wasn't easy enough Hope this can help at least one person!

 

Good sleuthing on your part, That required a mechanical mind to figure out.

 

I regularly have to nudge my shifter forward a bit to get the key to turn back all the way. Probably some slop/slack in the mechanism.

 

Forgot I posted this. Thanks!

 

Might be worth looking at if for some reason you don't have anything else to work on for your jeep

 

Put it on the list with the 10 other things to do....

Great write up. Thanks for the info

 

You know it! I have a notepad file on my desktop that I add to weekly of stuff to grab while I'm at local junkyards or things to fix when I get days off. Thank you and you're welcome!