97 Cherokee Country Ignition Switch

IGNITION SWITCH AND KEY CYLINDER
The ignition switch is located on the steering column. The Key-In-Switch is located in the ignition switch module.

REMOVAL

Disconnect negative cable from battery.
If vehicle has a tilt column, remove tilt lever by turning it counterclockwise.
Fig. 44 Shroud Removal/Installation-Typical

Remove upper and lower covers from steering column.
Fig. 45 Ignition Switch Screw Removal (Tilt Column)
Fig. 46 Ignition Switch Screw Removal
Remove ignition switch mounting screws. Use tamper proof torx bit Snap-on TTXR20A2 or equivalent to remove the screws.
Gently pull switch away from column. Release connector locks on 7-terminal wiring connector, then remove connector from ignition switch.
Fig. 47 Key-In-Switch And Halo Lamp Connector
Release connector lock on 4-terminal connector, then remove connector from ignition switch.
To remove key cylinder from ignition switch:
Fig. 48 Key Cylinder Retaining Screw (Tilt Column)
Fig. 49 Key Cylinder Retaining Screw

a Insert key in ignition switch. Turn key to LOCK position. Using a TTXR20A2 or equivalent torx bit, remove key cylinder retaining screw and bracket.

Fig. 50 Unseated Key Cylinder

b Rotate key clockwise to the OFF position. Key cylinder will unseat from ignition switch. When key cylinder is unseated, it will be approximately 1/8 inch away from ignition switch halo light ring. Do not attempt to remove key cylinder at this time.
C With key cylinder in unseated position, rotate key counterclockwise to the lock position and remove key.
D With key cylinder in unseated position, rotate key counterclockwise to the lock position and remove key.

Fig. 51 Key Cylinder Removal

e Remove key cylinder from ignition switch.

Cont.

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