I am a new member of this forum and thankful that it exists. I own a 94 Grand Cherokee with 155K miles that had been sitting for three years in a backyard. I am now reassembling the dash after removing it to clean out all the mouse mess and just installed a new battery. My problem is that when I turn the key to the 'start' position, the starter does not engage, period (not even a clicking noise). The really strange thing is that there seems to be no 'spring back' action in the steering column key-holder when attempting to turn the key to the 'start' position. The steering wheel is not locked and all the accessories work in the 'on' position. Any ideas? Thanks.

 

Sounds like the tumbler is F'd. Have you tried to start it via a screwdriver at the starter. Maybe find a new coulmn and either swap it or just swap out parts?
Install a switch/button to start it?

 

Check the starter relay in the Power Distribution Center under the hood. It's the black plastic box near the battery. Inside the cover of the box is a diagram showing what each relay and fuse is for.
And Welcome to CF!

 

Check the ignition switch for burning or that the rod that the key moves isnt knocked off. I have had this happen a few times myself. Should look like similar to this and have 2 rods going to it. One the key moves and one the headlight switch moves.
http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/de...1&apwidbY34r61

 

There is no rod for the ignition switch on a 95 and newer Jeep. The ignition switch in right there at the top of the column under the plastic covers. Thoses switches do like to burn up and fail, replace the switch and the wire pigtail at the switch. But first you need to see if you're getting voltage to the small starter wire while in the start position.

 

Thank you everyone!
It will turn over via a screwdriver at the starter solenoid. But there is (still) something suspicious going on with the ignition switch. My guess is that it is not even making it to the starter relay. This (1994) ignition switch can only be removed with a special tamper proof torx bit. I'm heading out now to obtain a new switch, starter relay and torx bit so the bases are covered...

 

Considering this is a 94 it does have the rods that I spoke of.

 

Not on the Grand Cherokee

 

Aw I looked that over completely but some what justified since this cherokee tech...

 

But I'm also justified because the vehicle in question is a 94 Grand Cherokee.

 

The bottom of the key cylinder had broken off. This prevented the key from engaging the starter in the 'start' position. Thanks to all for the tips.