ignition lock stripped gear in column?

[tzweelz]

1076450

a week ago my key would get stuck in the ignition when turned off. got a lil mad one day and pulled back hard and could hear a ratcheting noise, but key was still stuck in.
just put in a new ignition switch. could get key in and out, and jeep would start but not turn off. the rod in the column wont pull back.
put in new ignition lock, and that made no difference.
i cant even see how to get to the rod in the column if its even replaceable.[addsig]

 

[tzweelz]

1076583

took the column out from inside the jeep. found 3 screws holding another part of the shroud in place. after taking it apart the "lock rack" fell out as well as a pin and a ball bearing. dont know if i can even put it all back together now. prolly have to look for a new column in a junk yard or something.[addsig]