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My sons jeep wagoneer has an intermittent issue where the starter wont do any thing. Iam thinking with 169k on it that the ignition switch may be the culprit. Not the lock cylinder but the switch itsself. I am new to jeeps but I do know chevy and ford pretty well.
Opinions please.

What year is the waggy? There is two setups used depending on year.

1985 with the GM style column. Starter and solinoid are pretty new. From the engine rebuild 9k ago by previous owner

Yeah, it could be the switch that is on the column. I've had 'em go bad before.

Could also be the starter solenoid.

Do you get 12V + at the starter solenoid when someone is turning the key all the way to the 'cranking' position?

If the tumbler turns, its not the issue most likely. Switch is at the bottom of the column, pretty easy to replace. You can also try turning the switch to "run" and then jumping the two front pegs on the solenoid. You can also jump the key entirely at the starter switch itself. If that works, that limits it to the solenoid itself, neutral start switch, or the run position of the switch (Which has failed on both of my FSJ's).

I meant the aftual switch at the bottom of the column. I cant think of why else it would only actvup every few days. If its not the problem the part is cheap and should be changed anyway

The NSS, neutral safety switch mounted on the transmission, you can bypass by hotwiring the blue wire on the starter solenoid inner fender well to the battery plus.... keep hands clear of the fan, put key in the hot position.

Yeah, maybe ignition switch on column but they are pretty durable. Yeah, maybe NSS. I wouldn't rule out the starter either.

Well it seems last time it did this , he put it in neutral and then it cranked over. So I will try the saftey switch first.

Another vote for NSS or wet/corroded battery post

Hasnt happened again, but I agree. If I could get the kid to give me a chance to look at it. I would have a better idea.