'96 XJ
I'm sure I need a switch. But my service manual says take it to the dealer because it has an airbag.
Any one done this on XJ with airbag?
Thanks

 

Are you talking about the ignition switch which is located on the steering column under th dash or are you talking about the key tumbler?

 

The switch on the steering column under the dash.

 

You don't need to take it in, you can replace it yourself. It can be a little hard to get to but it isn't to bad to do. Just make sure to disconnect you battery and you will be fine. The only reason I say to disconnect the battery has nothing to do with the airbag. It just to you don't short anything out. You should always disconnect it when you disconnecting and reconnecting electrical parts as a safety precaution.

 

You might do a search on airbag safety precautions. It may be after "some time?) with the battery disconnected it can't fire. I wouldn't think messing around lower on the column would be an issue, but I'd be sure, for sure!

 

I found this. NO IDEA if it's credible. I suppose if the screw were there, that would lend some credit.

>On 96 Cherokees the airbag is mechanical.There is absolutely no electronics on it.So there is nothing to unplug. I really don't like telling any one how to disable a safety device but there is a screw in the steering column that has to depress an arming lever in the air bag.It's under a little plastic cap on top of the column.That screw has to be backed out to disarm the air bag for service.Now I suppose if someone forgot to tighten it back up it wouldn't arm the air bag.But I would never tell anyone to do that.<

Also found> The driverside airbag has a little plastic plug on the top of the steering wheel you pullout and has a nut down inside.Stand outside the jeep with the window down and reach in and back this nut off to disable the airbag.Then remove the bolts holding the airbag to the steering wheel,take airbag out and unhook the wires and cover ends with tape and remove pin and nut.Airbag is now disabled.But it still has the ability to go off anytime.The only good way is to take it out all together.I done this on my 96'and wheeled it all the time,still installed but disabled.<

Some guy just threw this line into a thread> "Turning the screw would deactiave the airbag for ever, you wouldn't have to do it everytime."

 

OK Thanks

So other than the tips and precautions for airbags I can just follow instructions far a '94,which doesn't have airbags?

 

Well after disabling (I think) the air bag, removing lower dash panel, lowering the steering shaft, I discovered it ain't down there!
It's right at the key. The tumbler fits right in to the switch.
Got 'er fixed!

 

And it's a 96 XJ Jeep. Got a picture? I wonder if you have a column from something else.

 

96 was Chrysler steering column.

 

I don't have a picture but I asked for a switch for a 96 at the parts store and got the right one!


Where were you when I needed you, Cruiser?

 

I don't know. Sometimes I skip over non-Renix stuff because I'm not that familiar with it.

 

OK, You are forgiven.......

 

I feel better now...