I have a 1999 xj. It only has 90,000 miles on it and I bought it about 5 years ago. It will start and run fine when it's cold. And it runs well after it gets up to temperature with maybe a occasional miss at idle. After the first start there is about an 80% chance it will not start again. I hate this, but my only solution is to hit it with a bit of starter fluid. Most of the time that will get it started. I have replaced the CPS, plug wires, rotor, distributor cap. The fuel pump is putting out 45 to 50 psi. I installed new plugs about 500 miles ago and yesterday I pulled them and plugs 1,2,and 3 are sooty and 4,5,and 6 are tan on one side and dark on the other. Right now I'm think O2 sensor because I read that the sensor is out of the loop on the first start. Is that true? What else will cause the first 3 cylinders to run rich and the last three closer to normal?

 

What are the actual number codes?

 

I haven't checked the codes in a while. The check engine light in not on, if that matters. I don't have a tester but I will find one and get the codes as soon as I can.

 

Fuel injectors.

 

Pull the dipstick and give it a sniff. Does it smell like gas?

 

Bustedback, you are the man!!
Sniffing the dipstick, and BINGO, it does smell of gas. So... hows the gas getting in the oil.

 

Injectors, I read another post on how to check the injectors. I will be checking first thing tomorrow. Thanks

 

Running too rich can do that. Hmmm.


Your plugs look like some cylinders are running too rich.



Hmmmmmmm. Coincidence?

 

You have one or more injectors bleeding down when the engine is shut down. That is also causing your hard start because the fuel pressure is dropping and you're losing your prime. Time for an injector swap.

 

Thanks CCKen, Is it best to replace all 6 at the same time? and would that cause my almost impossible to start condition after the first start?

 

Yes, replace them all.

There are several options available for injectors for your '99. Stay with the blue tips (big bux) or go with some Bosch 4 holers.

I'm using Ford injectors currently and they work great.

Edit: Ford XFE-C4B injectors.

As far as your hard starting condition goes, replace the injectors and see what it does for the problem. You've already thrown parts at it so I'd hold off on anymore (except injectors) until see what the injectors do for you.

A couple of sensors involved in fuel management are the MAP Sensor and the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, and of course, the Cam Sensor. Just say'n.

 

I rebuilt the injectors with new o-rings and filters. It took a while because I'm in Guatemala and it's hard to find parts, these were hand carried from the states. Two of them leaked. I determined this by taking off the injectors from the engine, but I left them connected to the rail. Then I pressurized the system and checked for leaks, which there were two. I took off those two and cleaned them by energized the injectors while running some carb cleaner through them. I seemed to work. I've checked it a few times and it's started every time. Thanks to everyone for their help.