I have an '89 4.0 XJ w/ 5-spd. I cleaned the throttle body this afternoon than took it out for a short drive. It didn't run any better or worse than before the cleaning. An hour later I went to start it back up and the insturment lights came on momentarily then went out. The ignition is dead, nothing happens when you turn the key and the headlights won't even come on. The dome light and glove compartment light work fine though. I was not having any battery problems prior to this.

I haven't had a chance to look it over beyond verifying the battery cables are still attached because it's dark and cold out.

Any suggestions on where to start.

 

Good time to get those battery terminals clean. Bright shiny lead on all four surfaces. It's common that a bad connection will let enough current through for a small load, (glove box light), but go completely out when you try to pass more current.

 

Load test battery and/or test signal at starter

 

X2.

 

Thankfully it turned out to only be a case of loose and dirty cable ends at the battery. Cleaned everything up, replaced a corroded terminal bolt which wouldn't tighten (the PO just ran a screw between the battery post and terminal to take up slack) and she fired right up.

I've been slowly making repairs and replacing worn out parts but haven't messed with the battery or cables since we bought it a few weeks ago. Up till now it just hadn't been an issue. I'll know better in the future.

 

Great upgrade for the xj is to go up on the size of your battery cables and grounds ,along with brass terminals. I am happy I did it, I'm sure other's have too.

 

Cool, glad you got her goen. Just a thought since its new to you. Idling in the driveway stomp the break as if your life depended on it. A better place to find that bad brake line than on the freeway. Happy trails!

.................................................. ..........V V

 

I plan to replace the brake hoses within the next two weeks. I already checked the pads and shoes and they are in good shape.

 

No foolin'. Done all 3 of mine. Had a bunch of cable left over from a dual battery job I did for a guy. Bought the "solder on" lugs and terminals. Headlights are brighter, starts quicker, voltmeter reads higher. Worth it.