hi all,

my 1996 4.0 petrol Cherokee has some problems. Some idiot garage pulled my ignition apart a while ago looking for the Neutral Safety Switch !!... and after I had a go at them they put it back all wrong and it has never been the same.
The ignition lost its spring and would stick so the starter would over-run. After using it like this for a few months it has gone to the other extreem and seems worn out. The radio and the clock stopped working. Fuse is ok so think its something to do with the ignition switch and today it wouldnt start. There is dash lights on but no clicking of starter or anything so am guessing the ignition is very nearly dead. I manage to start it by holding the key in position all the way round and after a few seconds it fired up.
Do you think i am right in suspecting the switch? I wouldnt want to order it from Jeep and get the wrong part.

Thanks

 

It does sound like a switch issue.

 

x2

There might be some stuff missing in the column that's keeping the switch from springing back, but a lot of connections are made through the ignition switch, so when it goes bad I would probably expect anything as far as electrical issues.

 

x3^^^^^^^^^^

 

o

 

p

 

The switch on a 95 is at the top of the column behind the ignition cylinder.

 

oops

 

thank you everyone, getting it done next week. another thing ticked off the ever expanding 'to-do' list!

 

The ignition switch feeds power to a lot of things besides engaging the starter. Sounds like the wiring is messed up. The NSS is not located near the ignition switch. Mechanic is not too knowledgeable.

PM me an email and I will send you the power distribution schematics. This willl help you identify the power circuit for any malfuctioning items that you have.