Shelby

I have a 1996 Jeep Cherokee, 5 speed, 4.0, 4x4.

The problem I am having is this:

Sometimes it drives fine. Sometimes it just idles down and dies with no warning. It only does it when I push in the clutch and I'm not giving it gas. If I keep giving it gas it stays running. Even if I don't push in the clutch and I just slide it out of gear it idles down and dies. This issue is intermittent and makes it tough to stop at stop signs, make turns, and generally get anywhere in one piece!

I have replaced the Throttle Position Sensor and tested the crank shaft position sensor according to the instructions I found somewhere on this forum board. It usually restarts although sometimes you have to pump the gas to get it going.

Any ides?

Michelle

fishtaconc

Possibly, the Idle Air Control(IAC) is dirty and needs a good cleaning.

Shelby

I just did a couple of searches and found a thread with that as an answer I'll be working on that soon. I also found the "how to" thread.

So just a dirty IAC will make it an intermittent problem like that?

fishtaconc

Yes, but even though it may not be the cause, its only a time investment. If it does continue, you can rule it out.

Shelby

Anything is worth a shot! Especially if it isn't costing me money. This is my first jeep so it's a learning experience!
Thanks for your help and I'll let you know the outcome

fishtaconc

Good luck... By the way... Welcome to Cherokee Forum. Just follow the how to, be careful as not to pull/twist the pintle(plunger), or you will be buying a new one.

Shelby

Just now getting a chance to get back to you. The IAC was so filthy and gunked up I am not sure how it was functioning at all!

It now runs great! I am so glad I looked here first!

Thanks again!
Shelby