Push Button (Start)

[RAT]

Oh no... I did not try that. I don't remember seeing a small plastic rod, is it in back of the key switch? what is the name of it? I will look into it before putting in a push button.

I was wrong, it's metal not plastic. It sticks out of the steering column and into the back of the switch IIRC. Probably a grey metal rod. If you take the switch back out you should see it sticking out. Unless it's broken, then you may have to fish around for it.

[Jeeper Creeper]

I think I know what you are referring to, I remember seeing a little metal rod about the size of a tooth-pick sticking out. Are you saying replace this rod? What's the name of it so I can reference it. And how would I know if its bad?
thanks for the reply...

[RAT]

I think I know what you are referring to, I remember seeing a little metal rod about the size of a tooth-pick sticking out. Are you saying replace this rod? What's the name of it so I can reference it. And how would I know if its bad?
thanks for the reply...

Mike knows. It was his Jeep that this happened to. I think you can check it by trying to turn it and see if it is cracked. Mikes was cracked but had just enough umph to turn on the accessories but not the ignition. It was twisting. Maybe send Mike a PM for the details. Good luck.

[RAT]

BTW. We will be at the hot tubs on East Carson river Friday and Saturday Aug 16 and 17. If you get the Heep running and have the time, come out and I'll buy you a beer

[Jeeper Creeper]

No luck with the PM sent to Mike. I have also moved since last time I posted here, I now live near Placerville where there's a whole lot less snow

[RAT]

No luck with the PM sent to Mike. I have also moved since last time I posted here, I now live near Placerville where there's a whole lot less snow

I know Mike is busier than a one legged man at a butt kickin contest these days. I'll ask him about this tonight.

[RAT]

Hey Jeeper,
Mike just told me that it's called an ignition switch actuator. He says they have them at www.1aauto.com for $50.00. Pricey, especially when you see how small the part is, but that seems to be a JEEP thing...

Sorry heres a link right the page with the part...
http://www.1aauto.com/1A/IgnitionSwi...ngler/-/-/1998

[Jeeper Creeper]

Awesome! Thanks for the info..... if it doesn't work I'll go back to installing the push button. ill post back with my results.
thanks again for all that responded!

[Mike]

Sorry to disappear on you guys. Before you buy one, make sure that yours is broken. The end of the metal rod should surround the plastic pin almost to the end. The end of the metal should be squared off and it should not flex in any direction. If it is not squared off, you need to look for the rest of the actuator. You will want to get the pieces out of the switch and column before you replace it.

Even if the metal pin is intact, the actuator could have failed. With the column apart and the ignition switch removed, use the key cylinder to turn the actuator. It should have to be pushed in just like when you crank the engine for the actuator to turn. Rotate it through all of its positions and check for anything unusual.

The screws holding the actuator in place are Torx heads with tamper prevention tabs in the center of the opening for the Torx head. Use a very small drill bit and bump the drill's power in a short burst against the pin. The pins will pop right off. Then you can use a standard Torx head to remove the bolts.

[Jeeper Creeper]

Thanks for explaining that.... gives me an idea what to do. I went ahead and ordered the part. The key has always been a little sticky and sometimes hard to turn, so hopefully this will work.
thanks again

[Jeeper Creeper]

aw12345, I just installed my push button and it works just as you said. I have to turn my key on in order for the push button to work, so this is good....the wire was a yellow one, that I tapped into. These forums are great, thanks for your help!