1994 4Runner 4wd. 3.0 with Manual trans. with Ignition Key in the lower dash.

How does the white circular base of the ignition switch come loose, from the back of the Key cylinder ? ( I can feel around and do not feel any screw or tab on the white part of the switch, or see anything that is holding it in.

fpund my own answer. here it is for others. link below will show photos.

4x4Wire - Ignition Switch Replacement

There are two sections to the ignition switch assembly. The front portion is the key tumbler lock mechanism and the rear portion is the electrical switch part. I found the electrical switch is readily available through most auto parts stores, though it may need to be ordered from the warehouse. The ignition switch and small harness also include a small plunger switch that is used to sense when the key is in the tumbler. This drives the little warning buzzer when you open the door with the key left in the ignition. Replacing the switch is fairly straight forward. Here is how I did it.


Removal of the lower dash panel. Removal of bolts securing column. Column dropped for access.


I first pulled off the small plastic cover over the key tumbler in the dash. I then removed the four phillips screws and one bolt securing the lower dash panel under the steering column. Next, I removed the two nuts and three bolts securing the steering column to the dash frame. This allowed me to drop the column down, providing access to the electrical ignition switch behind the key tumbler assembly. Be careful not to put undue strain on any wires running under the column.


Removal of key sense switch. Removing switch assembly screw. Switch assembly installation. Installing key sense switch.


Two screws secure the key sense switch to the housing that holds the key tumbler and ignition switch. I removed these and the one screw in the back that secures the ignition switch body. Finally, I unplugged the 8-conductor connector at the wiring harness. Installation of the new ignition switch goes in reverse order of removal, as does the dash reassembly.

The front cover has 10mm head bolts. Pulling the HVAC tube that feeds the left side made everything a lot easier. The 4 column nuts are 14mm, I needed a deep socket to clear the studs.

Hi,

I followed these directions but now I have a problem where the steering wheel locks up in the ON position when I start the truck and will only free when I turn it off.

Even when I put the old switch back I get the same result. Searching for answers.