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97 Cherokee sport turns but wont start

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Old Jun 23, 2012 | 09:04 PM
  #1  
Cullens's Avatar
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Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 6cyl
Default 97 Cherokee sport turns but wont start

When I go to turn it on, it cranks like it wants to start but it doesnt catch to start. Could it be NSS or CPS problems? Fuel lines?
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Old Jun 23, 2012 | 09:20 PM
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From: In the middle of Minnesota!
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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If it is turning over, the problem is NOT the neutral safety switch.

The starting equation is spark + fuel (plus compression) = start.

You need to find what part of that equation you are missing.

Remove a plug. Keep it attached to the plug wire, place the plug wire near a good engine ground. Have a buddy crank the engine while you watch. You are looking for a strong, blue, snapping spark. Yellow/orange/white spark indicates a weak spark which may not be strong enough to start the engine (suspect the ignition coil for weak spark)

IF spark checks out (and only IF), then try introducing a shot of starting fluid into the intake. If the engine starts and runs for a short time, you have confirmed a "fuel delivery" problem.

Good luck and update us on what you find when you perform the above testing.
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Old Jun 23, 2012 | 10:14 PM
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Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 6cyl
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Alright, so after letting it sit for a few hours brooding over what the problem could be, i went over and tried to start it. Started right up. Reverse lights don't work, don't know if thats significant. It was extreme heat(110+degrees Arizona) when it crapped out on me earlier, so don't know if thats the problem. With this new information, any ideas what else it could be?

Also, I shut if off and started it again 5 times to make sure, and it was perfectly fine every time.

EDIT:Just went to try and start it again, wont happen.

Last edited by Cullens; Jun 23, 2012 at 10:38 PM. Reason: New info
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