My friends use to tell me not to keep so many keys on my
key ring because it will wear out my ingition switch because of the extra weight of the keys.Guess what, I think I should have listened!
I've looked at the owners manuel and it's not to helpful. Does anyone know how to R&R the switch on the steering column in a '81 CJ? I've been told it's a bit of work. Are there any special tools or tricks needed? Usually I just work by tearing things apart and putting back together again. Would I be fool hardy to try this repair myself.
THANKS for any thoughts and suggestions.

If only Jeep Wife enjoyed wheel'n like I do!

You don't need to replace the switch, just the key cylinder. Just pull your steering wheel, you can get to the set screw that holds the cylinder in from there. It's really no big deal.

Brad
ORC Land Use Section Editor
http://www.off-road.com/land
Vice-Pres. Rock Garden 4 Wheelers, Farmington, NM
http://rockgarden.rockcrawler.com

Thanks, I wasn't sure if I was getting in over my head or not. I'll give it a shot first chance I get.THANKS again.

If only Jeep Wife enjoyed wheel'n like I do!

It a little more than just pulling the steering wheel, which is not always easy, I've bent them try to get them off without a puller. Then you'll have to remove the lock plate, a special pusher(CJ's use Chev type) is handy or a strong buddy and a couple small screwdrivers or lock ring pliers. Then remove the signal switch to find the cyl lock screw. Some models also have a pin to depress. If the cylinder isn't function at all your going to have a much harder time. Anyway when youremove the locking screw you have to turn the key one way or the other and pull the whole assy out. Watch the rack and pinion for the switch it's a bitch to set up correctly after.

Glenn

Build what I can, buy only what I must.[img]/wwwthreads_images/icons/crazy.gif[/img]
82CJ7 Rebuilding again.

Thanks, I think I'll still try it but make sure it won't be a problem if my jeep is down for a while.
Anyone else with any tips?

If only Jeep Wife enjoyed wheel'n like I do!

Column Repair Sites

LEVE - Just what I needed. Thanks so much! <img src=http://www.contrabandent.com/pez/cwm/cwm/wink.gif>

If only Jeep Wife enjoyed wheel'n like I do!