97 Cherokee sport turns but wont start
#1
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Join Date: Jun 2012
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Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 6cyl
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?
#2
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Location: In the middle of Minnesota!
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Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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.
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.
#3
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Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 6cyl
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.
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; 06-23-2012 at 10:38 PM. Reason: New info
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