aktualize

My 1998 XJ Cherokee Sport 4.0L will start (not as smooth as normal), but it dies as soon as I stop revving the engine. (Check Engine light does come on.) Seems like spark is not connecting with fuel/air mixture unless I'm pushing some through with the accelerator. Is there an Idle Air Control that I should check and clean? If so, where is it located on my Jeep? I have no manual and am not familiar with my Jeep.

Heck, an online owner's manual or repair manual for my Jeep would be great too. Anyone know where to find one?

Thanks!

statesvillexj

Sounds like timing to me id check that first

tjwalker

1. Check engine light is trying to tell you something. The strategy for a vehicle that is symptomatic with a check engine light is always the same. Read the codes. You will need a code reader, a scan tool, or some parts stores like Autozone will read the codes for you for free. Use the technology provided to you by your Jeep. Post the code or codes here for comment.

2. Base timing for the Jeep 4.0 engine is controlled by the computer.

3. Here is a link to a good source for inespensive legal/authorized service manuals:

http://www.pacificcoastmanuals.com/F..._cherokee.html

aktualize

Fixed it. I guess the Jeep forgot how to idle. I held it at 2000 rpm in neutral for about 10 to 15 seconds, and there was an audible change to the engine sound: it changed to being more even and smooth. Now the Jeep idles fine.

EDIT: Thanks both of you for your help. Does anyone know why it would randomly just "forget" how to idle? I hadn't done anything unusual with the Jeep. The previous night, I drove it to the grocery store, no problems, and that was the last time I had used it before today when it wouldn't idle.

buckbagger

It could have been your Idle Air Control I had a similar problem with mine cleaned it and have had no problems since then.

Heres a write up on how to clean it http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f13/h...-valve-756934/