How do you properly install a new distributor if you took out the old one without marking it's rotor location? I tried the advice in my Haynes manual and many other theory's devised between me and some coworkers and my jeep still won't start....I smell fuel, I got good compression, put in new wires, no CEL codes...helpful advice greatly appreciated <3

 

A Factory Service Manual comes in real handy when doing jobs like this.

Haynes manuals are good picture books for brake work, and tht's about it.

Go to Pacific Coast Manuals and buy a FSM for your XJ. $7.95 as I recall.

I could show you how to do it (with pics) but I'm too tired, hungry, and thirsty, right now. If you do a Google search you could find something I suppose.

 

Setting Your 4.0 at #1 TDC


With #1 spark plug removed, turn the engine over clockwise using the 3/4" front crankshaft bolt. You will see the degree marks on your front cover. Mark the 0 with chalk or white-out.You will see the timing mark on the balancer. Mark it with chalk or white-out. While turning the engine over, put your finger/thumb over #1 spark plug hole. As the mark on the balancer approaches the marks on the front cover, if you are coming up on #1 TDC, pressure in the cylinder will push on your finger. If there's no pressure, you're at #6 TDC and need to crank the engine over until you see the marks coming together and you get pressure. Set the mark on the balancer to the 0 mark on the front cover.