Ok, I generally only come on here when I need help and you all have not disappointed in the past so I'm reaching out for help again. I've discovered a new issue. When I go to start my '95 4.0, the starter will sometimes hang and continue to spin. Sometimes, when I turn the ignition on, I do not have to turn the key to the normal "starting" position, it engages the starter with just a slight turn of the key. Oftentimes, I have to manually back the key off just a little bit for the starter to stop spinning.

What could be causing this? Does this sound like an ignition problem or a starter problem? With everyone's help on here, I have learned a lot and have tackled and conquered every mechanical issue I've had on my Jeep. I'm sure this instance will not be any different.

Thanks again for your help.

-BigUgly95

 

It sound like your ignition switch may be going bad.

 

Starter bendix could bad. Or the solenoid could be sticking.

 

+1

Or possibly the linkage between the cylinder and switch assembly is mis-adjusted.

 

Worn solenoid contacts. When they wear the soleniod plunger sticks on and does not release. That is why you turn the key to run and the starter works. Take it to an auto electrical shop and have them put in some new solenoid contacts. Should not cost too much or you can do it yourself if able. Do not replace the starter for this. Have the auto electrical shop check the starter for you.

Had to edit. I just read the last part of your post about the ignition switch. It could be the ignition switch. So do this test. The next time you turn the ignition to run and find the starter stuck, turn the ignition off. Find a helper for this test. Get down by the starter and remove the thin wire connected to the starter solenoid. Connect a test light or volt meter to that wire. Now have the helper turn the key to RUN not start. If the test light turns on or you have battery voltage, you have something sticking in the starting circuit, igniton switch, starter relay. If you DO NOT get a test light or read battery voltage, have the helper turn the key to START. Now you should get a test light or read battery voltage. If this test shows the starting circuit to be good then the solenoid contacts would be the problem.

 

Typical worn or misadjusted ignition switch. But never say never either, lol.
Here's how to tell if it's the switch or the solenoid: Clip a test light to the small 'ignition' terminal on the starter solenoid and ground the other end of the light.
Watch the light as you turn the key. If the starter engage/disengage matches the light turning on and off, the problem is the ignition switch.
If the starter stays engaged after the test light turns off, the solenoid is sticking.