Bought a 1985 jeep Cherokee 2.5 (carbed) 5 speed.

Guy said he thinks it has a problem with the distributor and won't start. He gave me a new distributor with the deal.

Never done anything with a distributor. What are the symptoms of a bad distributor?

 

Well it could keep it from starting. Is it getting fire to the plugs?

 

No spark.


Start with coil?

 

Is it new if so pop it in it was free. Another common fail point is the brain or Ignition Control Module .

 

I've had the same (84), for nearly 20 years. The carb, and almost everything else has fallen apart once or twice, but it's always sparked! (I mean that Btw, I've been into everything except the lower end).

"Needs a new Dizy"....About all the parts are changeable, wonder if he meant the bushing is worn and the shaft wiggles. IN any case, yea, swap them, just be sure the shaft turns free, is lubed and the gear and oil pump drive looks OK.

Box on the right inner fender says AMC? maybe check the wire connectors there. Cleaning every connecter and relay socket you can lay hands on is an idea. Also checking ground resistance between Bat neg, engine, and body, you want to see around an ohm or less.