Good morning all. I don't post on here very often, but I am having some trouble with the XJ and thought you guys might be able to help. Yesterday morning, I went outside to start it and it was like the electrical system was completely dead. No lights, no radio, no beeping, and nothing at all when I turned the key. I decided to take my wife's car and run my errands for the day and fool with it when I got home. So, last night, I got in it again. This time, the interior light came on and when I put the key in, it acted like everything was normal. However, I turned the key and it started strong, but then died out. I tried again and gave it some gas and actually kept it running. While it was running, I could hear a loud whining/moaning coming from what sounded like the front passenger side. Definitely not belt related. As soon as I took my foot off of the gas, it died. Anybody have any theories? Until I can get my buddy to help me out, I can't track down the noise any better. Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

The alternator is over there. Maybe it is locking up because of bad bearings?

 

Thanks firestorm, I will check that out!

 

I second that, sounds like a good place to start.

 

Stupid question but are the battery cables tight?

 

Update. Just went outside to fool with it. Battery cables are tight. Although, there is an area that is somewhat frayed. I tried to start it and it fired right up. It is sitting right now idling fine. Volts, oil pressure, and temp all look good. No more moan/whine coming from the passenger side. It is throwing a CEL and I don't have a scanner to read it with. I'm going to drive it to my buddy's shop and see if we can figure this out. I appreciate the help and I will keep you guys posted.