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low idle issue

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Old Jan 8, 2011 | 08:43 PM
  #1  
xjshake's Avatar
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From: muskogee oklahoma
Year: 1988
Model: Cherokee
Engine: I6
Default low idle issue

Ok so my xj idles real low and the lights flicker at the same pace... what would cause this? I seen some threads and they said the battery but my battery and alternator are both new... does it sound like a vacuum leak maybe?.. someone else said distributor?
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Old Jan 8, 2011 | 09:44 PM
  #2  
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From: Midwest/ AZ
Year: 98-01
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What year and drivetrain do you have ?
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Old Jan 8, 2011 | 10:10 PM
  #3  
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From: muskogee oklahoma
Year: 1988
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Engine: I6
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89 4.0 xj
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Old Jan 9, 2011 | 08:31 AM
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From: Brentwood, TN
Year: 2001
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Engine: 4.0
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Did you install the new alternator? Take it and have it tested. These are sure symptoms of an alternator going out.
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Old Jan 9, 2011 | 08:34 AM
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Start with thorough cleaning of your throttlebody and fuel system.

Carb/choke cleaner and bottle of Seafoam.
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Old Jan 9, 2011 | 09:02 AM
  #6  
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From: Brentwood, TN
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While you are at the parts store buying things to throw at it, ask the guy to throw a tester on it and see what the alt and battery is running. Have them test the whole charging and starting system. I have seen alternators go bad quickly and if you installed a remanufactured one its not out of the question. There are a list of things you could do but its all in vain if you dont start simple and have the system tested.
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Old Jan 9, 2011 | 10:23 AM
  #7  
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From: muskogee oklahoma
Year: 1988
Model: Cherokee
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I already seafoamed her... ill go and have the alternator and battery tested later... I started having this problem after I changed my valve cover so I'm assuming it could he s vacum line I might have missed but everything looks hooked up correctly... if anyone could post a pic of the top of their 4.0 engine bay I would appreciate it... I just want to make sure everything is hooked up
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Old Jan 9, 2011 | 10:33 AM
  #8  
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From: muskogee oklahoma
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One thing I did notice is it gets progressive worse when it warms up.... not sure if that helps
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Old Jan 9, 2011 | 11:23 AM
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From: Brentwood, TN
Year: 2001
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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Maybe an o2 sensor but that should not cause flickering lights and low idle. At least I wouldnt think so that is why I still think your Alt is going out.
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Old Jan 9, 2011 | 12:51 PM
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From: muskogee oklahoma
Year: 1988
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I'll have it tested
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