Hey all,

Just purchased a 92 XJ Laredo yesterday for $1k in really phenomenal cosmetic condition. It starts and runs great, but as you would imagine it's got some things I need to fix right out of the gate. I think I've got a handle on most of the stuff (leaking rear brake line, PCV valve, rear window and vent window missing, exhaust leak, etc). There's one thing that I can't seem to find any info on though and I'd love to see if anyone can help me out with it.

So the car was stolen awhile back (hence the missing glass) and the ignition is broken. The key slides into the ignition but doesn't turn anymore. So I think the previous owner busted off this plastic piece on the steering column and put a screw into the side of it, and that's how the car starts and is shut off. It works fine enough, but obviously that's not a long term solution. Here's a picture of what I've got going on:



I'm not super familiar with ignition systems, so I'm not sure what all I need to do to bring this back up to snuff. Is it as simple as replacing the cylinder and getting that trim piece (which for the life of me I can't find on any parts diagrams, or what that would even be called), or is this a bigger job that could even need a new steering column? Any help is appreciated, thanks in advance!

 

Honestly that trim piece will probably have to be sourced from a junkyard or someone parting out a jeep. As far as the ignition switch you may have to replace it via a locksmith, who maybe can key a new cylinder to match the rest of the truck.

 

https://www.moparpartsoverstock.com/showAssembly.aspx?ukey_assembly=1003133&ukey_make= 1097&ukey_model=15916&modelYear=1992&ukey_category =22702&ukey_driveLine=9359
Here for the diagram and post number. Good luck.

 

That works, I was planning on having the car totally re-keyed due to the prior theft. Thanks!

Thank you! From the looks of it, it's the steering column housing I believe. Looks like either way I'm off to the junkyard though.

 

Typical Ghetto theft, as you can see they bust out a window to get inside then just crack the column with a ball peen hammer jack the rack gear over with a screwdriver and in about 15 seconds...it's history.
It's easier to just replace the window and column.