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Tilt Cj5 Column Key Release Problem

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by DanStew, Sep 30, 2020.

  1. Sep 30, 2020
    DanStew

    DanStew Preowned Merkin salesman Staff Member

    Lexington, South...
    Joined:
    Sep 22, 2002
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    I am working on my Tilt column in the 79 CJ5. I was originally replacing the key cylinder because I did not have a key for the Jeep. So I took everything apart and reassembled and i found put i could not remove the key from the cylinder when i actuate the release handle. I pulled it apart again and the key freely goes in and out of the cylinder when i have it out of the column. I put it back in and still, it will not let me use the lever to tur nthe key the last bit and let it come out of the cylinder. I have seen the diagrams and see there is a spring to the release lever that i would like to inspect, but i do not know how to get at it. Does anyone hve pictures of how to get to the release lever spring or any pics of how the lever works.

    Thanks!
     
  2. Oct 1, 2020
    sterlclan

    sterlclan Member 2022 Sponsor

    exploring the...
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    try it with the column straight, the rack is a wear point and can cause trouble not letting the lock turn freely.
     
  3. Oct 2, 2020
    DanStew

    DanStew Preowned Merkin salesman Staff Member

    Lexington, South...
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    I will try that.

    Also another thing i found. I was looking to remove the pins to take out the tilt section. There should be two pins where you thread in a bolt to pull them out. But it looks like my column only has one on the left side. Do i have an earlier column? I dont have any torxs screws, everything is philip head. I am guessing the other side is captured so there is no pin to remove.
     
  4. Oct 2, 2020
    jpflat2a

    jpflat2a what's that noise?

    Hermosa, SD
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    Jul 30, 2003
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    Two pins, one on each side for tilt column.
     
  5. Oct 3, 2020
    nickmil

    nickmil In mothballs.

    Happy Valley, OR
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    Sep 23, 2002
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    12,529
    This.
    Some of the earlier columns had Phillips head screws holding the upper portion together. Later Metric pattern used Torx.
    I agree with checking the rack and pinion gears on the left side. Common for the to wear or even crack or break. Replaced more than I care to think about. Get an inexpensive pivot pin removal tool and a lock plate compression tool. Inexpensive and worth every penny.
     
  6. Oct 3, 2020
    sterlclan

    sterlclan Member 2022 Sponsor

    exploring the...
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    during the smash and grab 80s i had a rebuilt column sitting on the bench, when a theft would come in just paint to match and install it. rebuild the one you pulled and use that one tomorrow as they were stealing a few hundred cars a day back then.
     
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