ignition switch rod

so im knee deep in trying to figure out why my ignition wont turn and i believe ive fonud the problem. the rod that goes from the cylinder to the switch seems to be binding somewhere. i cant figure out how to get the piece of the steering column off though. its the one right below the one with the cylinder in it. i have a 94xj auto with tilt btw. and ideas would be greatly appreciated.

so, im looking at it and it defintely that the ignition rod is binding on the outer casing of the steering column. i just cant get it off to see why.

new info: its binding on the neutral safety switch. i took the cable off of it and then held the arm up into the housing and my ignition turns fine.

ok well you had a whole conversation with your self.lol but i have a 90 and i dont think it comes apart. ill look in the manual for you.

are you sure its not the one that locks the wheel?