So I want to get opinions on something.
My landlord wants me to fix his Jeep.
Approached me yesterday with an ignition cylinder and wanted me to put it in.
I asked why.
He said that the Jeep only stays running if he holds key all the way forward.
But the starter is not grinding.
When he releases it the Jeep shuts off.
I know it is a '96 and down with an air bag but not sure exactly what year.
So Googling around it appears it is a little more work then a '97 and up which I have done to mine.
Thing is I think it might be the ignition switch and not the ignition cylinder.
Could be wrong and I was reading about possible electrical issues too.
Any thoughts?

 

Key cylinder doesnt have much in itselfthat causes issues other than that little piece that can break off.
But that would likely cause a no start rather than this.

In all the other positions normal?



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I actually thought to ask him that.
But he could not tell me one way or the other.

 

95 and 96 have the mechanical drivers side only airbag. Self contained unit sort of thing. Obviously 97+ used the electronic airbags with the relatively easy ignition switch access.

94 and earlier used the old style column and wheel with just the horn in the center. No airbags.

I can attest to this as my Dad's 94 was no airbag, old style with the PITA ignition switch, my 95 has an airbag.

I haven't done anything with the ignition switch or lock cylinder. However it LOOKS quite a bit like the 97+ style that I recall quite clearly dealing with on my 00 TJ.

If his Jeep is a 95+ XJ, you may be OK...... what year exactly is his Jeep?

 

I don't know. According to what you wrote it is either a '95 or '96 cause it does have an air bag.
Looks like I might not be doing the job anyway.
He thinks that I am a better mechanic then I am.
I explained to him that it looks fairly straight forward but....
Experience has taught me that a job can go pear shaped quick.
And I explained that to him too.
I really don't like to work on other peoples cars.
My logic is I am allowed to break or screw up whatever I want on my vehicles.
Other peoples not so much. LOL.

 

But we need to find out what's the answer