Full Size Jeep Network

I recently purchased a 1983 Jeep Cherokee with the 5.9 L engine. Some previous owner removed the lock cylinder. actuator and switch and I am looking to replace. I have not been able to find the actuator. Does anyone know where I might locate one or a work around? Would a switch, actuator and lock cylinder from a newer jeep work? inquiring minds want to know. ~ Thanks

First, welcome to the forum.

Second, when you say actuator, do you mean the rod that goes down inside the steering column? For 83, it should still be using the GM column, so an actuator from a GM of the same year should work. Or, one from a FSJ from 74-86ish should all be the same.

How are you starting the Jeep up now?

Yes, the rod that goes inside the steering column. Right now I am starting using a toggle and push button but am uncomfortable with that setup. Thank you! I will look into that and let you know.

Benjamin - Did you find a solution to this issue? I bought a '75 Cherokee a month ago, and it is missing the lock cylinder, rod/actuator and switch as well. She's not running yet, but I see that a previous owner bypassed the column with a toggle switch and push button. I took the steering column off over the weekend, and was hoping to install the AC Delco ignition key tumbler, but no such luck. I see scratch marks around the key hole, and it is slightly broken there, so my guess is that it was stolen at some point. Mine is a standard, so no tilt wheel.

MikeMac I have not found a solution yet. My Jeep was at a local mechanic for a very long time due to lack of help and Covid. He ended up putting a keyed ignition switch off the column. I would still like to get it set up properly. I will keep you posted on any progress. Have you gotten yours sorted out?

You-all understand that this is a generic GM steering column, sold as a commodity to Jeep by GM? There are lots of GM cars in the junkyard, and you should be able to get the parts you need from another car with this column. Also, any articles or videos online about servicing the GM column will apply to your Jeep too.

This column continued into the '80s, and that era's TSMs have more detailed coverage. Look on the Tom Collins site.

Benjamin_R wrote: ↑Mon Jan 24, 2022 8:27 am MikeMac I have not found a solution yet. My Jeep was at a local mechanic for a very long time due to lack of help and Covid. He ended up putting a keyed ignition switch off the column. I would still like to get it set up properly. I will keep you posted on any progress. Have you gotten yours sorted out?

I am not sure if Kenny, from Watson and Sons' Jeep Auto Salvage in Pinetown, NC has any sitting out or if he will remove one from one of his steering columns he has in the vehicle, but that would be where I would start. They are a really good small business. It is pretty much just him and his Dad running it. Mainly his Dad, because Kenny has a full time day job, but is very good at responding to questions. And I will see his son out there occasionally helping out. Here is a link to their Facebook Page if you have Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q= ... %20salvage

Thanks! I will be getting touch with them