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Jeep won't shift.

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Old Dec 28, 2014 | 06:45 PM
  #1  
Low money and high dreams's Avatar
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From: Michigan
Year: 1989
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 Inline Six
Default Jeep won't shift.

OK so my ignition went out. (more then just the key cylinder). I installed a push button ignition. And everything works (except headlights). Ever sense I installed the push button I can't shift. I managed it get it from Park to neutral. Now it won't shift at all. It will go to drive but that doesn't require the shift button. Any suggestions? 89 cherokee
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Old Dec 28, 2014 | 08:52 PM
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Radi's Avatar
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From: Wisconsin
Model: Cherokee
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The transmission won't shift gears, or you can't move the lever?
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Old Dec 29, 2014 | 12:55 AM
  #3  
firehawk618's Avatar
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From: Marysville, WA
Year: 1989
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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Look for the "interlock cable" near the ignition switch you butchered.
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Old Dec 29, 2014 | 08:02 AM
  #4  
Low money and high dreams's Avatar
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From: Michigan
Year: 1989
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 Inline Six
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Originally Posted by Radi
The transmission won't shift gears, or you can't move the lever?
The lever just won't move
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Old Dec 29, 2014 | 09:22 AM
  #5  
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From: Sheridan, IL
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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I know where talking a generation gap but it might be the same. Theres a mechanical shift lock that runs down the column to a cable that connects near the shifter. When I switched my 98 over I had to remove the center console and disconnect that wire. Ever since then it's been fine. If you have a steering wheel lock that might be a more difficult endeavor.
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Old Dec 29, 2014 | 09:24 AM
  #6  
SteveMongr's Avatar
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From: Cape Hatteras, North Carolina
Year: 2000 WJ
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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Originally Posted by firehawk618
Look for the "interlock cable" near the ignition switch you butchered.
Originally Posted by Rcrivolio
I know where talking a generation gap but it might be the same. Theres a mechanical shift lock that runs down the column to a cable that connects near the shifter. When I switched my 98 over I had to remove the center console and disconnect that wire. Ever since then it's been fine. If you have a steering wheel lock that might be a more difficult endeavor.
X2 Shift interlock cable.
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Old Dec 29, 2014 | 09:49 AM
  #7  
lvcherokee's Avatar
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From: Las Vegas
Year: 1987
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
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On my 87 it is a metal rod, same function: prevents shifter from moving if key not in ON position.
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Old Dec 29, 2014 | 10:36 AM
  #8  
Low money and high dreams's Avatar
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Year: 1989
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Engine: 4.0 Inline Six
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Originally Posted by lvcherokee
On my 87 it is a metal rod, same function: prevents shifter from moving if key not in ON position.
thank you. It worked. All I had to do was move that metal rod forward and it's working like a dream!
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