1happydude

Hi All,

So i have been having an intermittent issue. I cant start the xj unless i step on the gas. The xj will start but it will stall once I let off the gas.

After I drive the xj (very challenging ridding the brake pedal and gas at same time) the jeep runs normally.

Where do I start on a repair? I assume its a fuel issue but I am not a mech.

The xj is a 1996 4.0l Sport.

'90Cherokee

Idle control valve, if the idle slowly gets better as it warms I'd say it's 100% that. It might be stuck, broken, or just disconnected. If the idle goes from nothing to perfect all at once then it's likely something else; post and we'll continue.

tjwalker

Any check engine light? If so, you must pull codes for clues/guidance.

One thing not to overlook is a "marginal battery".

I've seen it where the engine will start with the marginal battery, but not having enough juice raises heck with the engine management system and can cause the engine to stall.

But when the engine runs enough and the alternator forces more juice into the battery, that symptom resolves itself.

I'm not saying that your battery is the problem. But what I am saying is that you should eliminate it as a possibility before chasing other possibilities. Any parts store will "load test" your battery for you at no charge. Load testing is the only accurate way to test the battery.

Good luck and keep us updated!

1happydude

I have cleaned the iac and will get the battery checked or replaced tomorrow. Thanks

1happydude

So I cleaned the IAC then took my battery down to advance auto to get tested. RESULT=Dead Battery(65crank amps). Installed a new gold autocraft and vroom!! Starts so nice and runs smooth. Prolly will replace the wires for proactive maintenance.

Thanks for all your advice!!!

tjwalker

I love happy (and simple) endings. Thanks for checking back in with an update!

'90Cherokee

Awesome; easy fix and kept you from soon being stranded with a no-start. I woulda never thought the battery could be that bad and still start it, good going TJ.