AMG

Have a 97 XJ country with an auto and a 4.0. I have already tried replaced the battery and the starter. When I put the key in the ignition and turn it to on everything seems normal, when I turn the key to start everything on the dash turns off and I get nothing, if I put it in neutral and try to start it it does the same thing. I am thinking it could be the neutral safety switch, what else could it be, or does it sound like I'm right?
I have also checked all of the fuses, none of them were blown.

Dan_Man

you should check if u get power on the starter excite wire when u try to start it

AMG

If I am not getting power, what would that mean?

mdnov

Did you check your grounds?

AMG

Yes, I tried checking the free things first, I don't want to just throw parts at it. I don't really have a lot of money laying around.

mdnov

I hear you.

AMG

Could I clean the connections on my neutral safety switch, or is it something I have to replace?

Turbo X_J

What happens with the headlights? When did this all start?

AMG

Is there any way I can test my nss? I have a multi-meter, what measurements would I be looking for?

cmartin2112

Did you check the starter sylanoid?

AMG

The lights turn on, everything works like normal except it won't start. This started this morning when I started it up, drove to my storage unit, then turned it off to unload something from my jeep, it wouldn't start back up after that.

AMG

I replaced the starter and solenoid.

Turbo X_J

When you turn the ignition key from "ON" to "START" do the headlights dim, go out completely, or nada?

AMG

The headlights stay on when I try to start it, they don't dim or turn off.

Turbo X_J

Try to "jiggle" the shifter when in park or neutral see if it starts.