I went to start my 96 dakota and stuck my key in the ignition and proceeded to turn and it just freely spins. Is there anyone that can help me Identify the problem? Its very important as this is my main mode of transportation, any help would be kindly appreciated. Thank you

 

Sounds like the ignition lock needs to be replaced. I'm not to sure, but it might be a dealer only item.

 

Thank you, is there any way around that so i can temporarily drive it til i can get the part?

 

Disclaimer: I really hope you're not trying to steal the truck and i hope it is yours.

Im looking at the wiring diagram in the service manual (you can see it too, download in the FAQ of this forum), and it looks like to mimic the run position you would need to connect Red to Dark Blue and also Black/Dark Red. To start it up you would need to connect Red to yellow to active the starter.
Now this is questionable, you need to find out, but I also see pink/black going to black/ dark red? You will need to figure that out.

I highly discourage hacking up your wiring harness are it just is dumb, instead try back probing the connectors with something like a paper clip so it is nothing permanent until you get the new switch. Don't take anything I say as being totally true, im just trying to help, you will need to look over the manual and make your own decisions.
I wish you well until you get the new switch
Let me know how it works out.
-Brandon

 

Thanks for the info. I popped the key cylinder out and stuck it back in and just jiggled it until it turned into the on position. Now I just jump the starter to start it and pull the positive battery cable off to make sure the battery doesn't die. Im having a friend fix it on Monday.

 

good to hear