96 XJ no start
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Newbie
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 3
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From: SNJ
Year: 1996
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
96 XJ no start
So I'm new to Jeeps. I have some experience with the 5.2 dodges as I've had a few and a lot of experience with GM vehicles. I got my XJ as a mini beater project and I purchased it knowing it had a no spark issue. After some digging around I also realized the fuel pump won't turn on. I've replaced the CPS and attempted to test the ohms but I don't think my multimeter is working properly. I jumped the fuel pump wire at the distrubution block and it turns on. I also have 12v power at the #30 terminal on the ASD. At this point I'm starting to think maybe my PCM is dead. I know it was replaced in 10/16 because there is a sticker under the hood from a jeep dealer saying "vehicle came into shop missing PCM". Any other ideas of what to look for other than replacing the PCM and CPS again in case of getting a faulty one?
UPDATE: CPS reads good for on the ohm meter. I checked the PN on the PCM and it turns out the PCM P/N is for a 97-99. There is a sticker that says Authorized software update on the PCM cover. I'm not sure if a dealer replaced the PCM and reprogrammed it to work for the 96 or if thats even possible. Should I get a computer for a 96 and see if that fixes my issue?
UPDATE: CPS reads good for on the ohm meter. I checked the PN on the PCM and it turns out the PCM P/N is for a 97-99. There is a sticker that says Authorized software update on the PCM cover. I'm not sure if a dealer replaced the PCM and reprogrammed it to work for the 96 or if thats even possible. Should I get a computer for a 96 and see if that fixes my issue?
Last edited by spina74; Feb 15, 2017 at 09:34 PM.
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,840
Likes: 117
From: In the middle of Minnesota!
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Spark: 12 volts from ignition switch to the ASD relay; when the key is first turned on the PCM provides a ground to the ASD relay to energize it, then the ASD relay passes 12 volts to the coil primary side. If no crank sensor signal is generated after a couple of seconds the PCM cuts the ground to the ASD relay (and fuel pump relay too) and that cuts power to the coil (and fuel pump). Key to START and once again the PCM energizes the ASD relay. Now, a critical element is the crank sensor--no signal from the crank sensor and the PCM won't trigger the coil to provide spark.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 93
Likes: 1
From: Music City
Year: 1994.5
Model: Cherokee
Engine: Inline 6 4.0 HO
Spark: 12 volts from ignition switch to the ASD relay; when the key is first turned on the PCM provides a ground to the ASD relay to energize it, then the ASD relay passes 12 volts to the coil primary side. If no crank sensor signal is generated after a couple of seconds the PCM cuts the ground to the ASD relay (and fuel pump relay too) and that cuts power to the coil (and fuel pump). Key to START and once again the PCM energizes the ASD relay. Now, a critical element is the crank sensor--no signal from the crank sensor and the PCM won't trigger the coil to provide spark.
