AJT823

So my 1988 xj won't start, but the thing is its getting plenty of power. I just replaced the distributor cap, distributor button, spark plugs and spark plug wires yesterday, sure enough it started right up, a hand full of times. However, I drove to work today and on the way to a jobsite she stalled out at a light, so I messed with everything I installed yesterday and she started right back up. Then I got to the job and when I was done she wouldn't start again, so I ran a couple of basic tests, heard some noise from the gas tank when I switched the key into the ignition and replaced the ignition coil as I didn't see a spark when I tested it. Any suggestions or guesses are welcome as this is my only vehicle.

pdowty68

Talk to cruiser54 he's the renix era pro.

pdowty68

Is the distributor seated correctly?

pdowty68

Did you check for a spark?

AJT823

Yea, just double tested the fuel pump. That's it.

cruiser54

What's it?



Renix CPS Testing and Adjusting
　
　
Renix CPSs have to put out a strong enough signal to the ECU so that it will provide spark.
Most tests for the CPS suggest checking it for an ohms value. This is unreliable and can cause some wasted time and aggravation in your diagnosis of a no-start issue as the CPS will test good when in fact it is bad.
The problem with the ohms test is you can have the correct amount of resistance through the CPS but it isn’t generating enough voltage to trigger the ECU to provide spark.
Unplug the harness connector from the CPS. Using your voltmeter set on AC volts and probing both wires in the connector going to the CPS, crank the engine over. It won’t start with the CPS disconnected.
You should get a reading of .5 AC volts.
If you are down in the .35 AC volts range or lower on your meter reading, you can have intermittent crank/no-start conditions from your Renix Jeep. Some NEW CPSs (from the big box parts stores) have registered only .2 AC volts while reading the proper resistance!! That’s a definite no-start condition. Best to buy your CPS from Napa or the dealer.
Sometimes on a manual transmission equipped Renix Jeep there is an accumulation of debris on the tip of the CPS. It’s worn off clutch material and since the CPS is a magnet, the metal sticks to the tip of the CPS causing a reduced voltage signal. You MAY get by with cleaning the tip of the CPS off.
A little trick for increasing the output of your CPS is to drill out the upper mounting hole to 3/8" from the stock 5/16", or slot it so the CPS bracket rests on the bell housing when pushed down. Then, when mounting it, hold the CPS down as close to the flywheel as you can while tightening the bolts.

　
　
Revised 01-26-2013