The steering wheel is locked on my 1998 jeep xj sport, the key dose not turn, I have tried hitting it with a hammer, etc. Is it possible to replace the ignition lock without the key being in the "on" position? thank you

 

This has happened to both my 89 XJ & 88 MJ. In each case the front wheels were slightly off centre; the steering wheel was cranked a bit to the right or left when I parked it. In each case I pushed on the rear of the Jeep and rocked it forward while my wife turned the key and unlocked the steering. I've replaced the lock cylinders in both vehicles since then and haven't had the problem again. I don't know if you can change the ignition lock in your current condition but I'd try the above as it may free things up. Good luck!

 

sounds like safety lock. Anti theft deal in a way for these jeeps. If you remove the key and turn the wheel enough the steering wheel will lock. Try turning the wheel to either single direction left or right with key in the ignition. The 2 movements themselves (turning wheel hard and crank key) shouldn't be done in the same single action. Turn the wheel hard one way then try the key. Should free up - hitting it with a hammer is only going to make things worse for you

 

I've had that happen in other cars (my wife's Hyundai recently) but in the case of my Jeeps above, the steering wheel was absolutely locked. It could not be moved even slightly to the right or left. Same with the key, absolutely no movement. Moving the Jeep forward slightly - literally putting my back into the rear and pushing forward - freed up the key and steering. I straightened up the wheels a bit and it started fine.